Threads of Patanjali’s Wisdom – Online Course

A course of selected themes from the Yoga Sutras with Dr. Agi Wittich

The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali are the philosophical heart of yoga. For yoga practitioners they are a living guide that shapes how we move, breathe, and perceive ourselves. This course is designed for practitioners who want to go deeper and to study the Sūtras with rigor and clarity, to connect them with Iyengar’s teachings, and to discover how they illuminate the path of practice today.

Course Structure

Each session blends sutra study, Iyengar’s interpretation, and guided reflection—bridging philosophy and practice. Over six sessions, we will explore key themes of the Sūtras:

1. 1. What Is Yoga? The Mind as Bridge and Barrier
      How the mind (citta) obscures or reveals the Self, and practices for stillness.

1. 1. Abhyāsa & Vairāgya: Two Wings of Practice
      Effort and detachment as the foundation of steadiness and equanimity.

1. 1. Asana as a Path to Samādhi
      Iyengar’s vision of asana as meditation in action, integrating body & mind.

1. 1. Breath, Withdrawal, and Concentration
      From pranayama to pratyāhāra and dhāraṇā, opening the door to inner luminosity.

1. 1. Ethics, Obstacles, and Inner Qualities
      Yama and niyama as living vows, linked to the obstacles to avoid and the attitudes to cultivate.

1. 1. The Seer, the Seen, and Samādhi
      Understanding the Self, freedom, and the stages of samādhi.

What You’ll Gain

• • A deeper, embodied understanding of the Sūtras

• • Insight into how Iyengar integrated philosophy into practice

• • A supportive learning space to ask, reflect, and share

About Your Teacher

I’m Dr. Agi Wittich—a scholar of yoga philosophy and gender, a seasoned Iyengar practitioner and teacher, and founder of the Yoga Readers community. My work combines the rigor of academic study with two decades of personal practice and teaching.

Course Details

• • Format: 8 online sessions (Zoom) + recordings available (+additional Q&A sessions by demand)

• • Dates: December 2nd 2025 – January 20th 2026

FAQ

Do I need prior knowledge of the Sūtras?
No, this course is open to practitioners who are curious and committed.

Will sessions be recorded?
Yes, recordings will be available to all participants.

Is this for teachers or practitioners?
Both—anyone with a dedicated Iyengar background will benefit.