Mysore Yoga Traditions: Exploring Key Indian Texts

Eternal Truths for the Present Moment

This course offers a deep, clear, and accessible introduction to two of the most profound streams of Indian philosophical thought—Sankhya and the Katha Upanishad. These timeless teachings serve as foundational pillars for understanding the nature of the self, the world, and the path to liberation.

Module One centers on Sankhya, one of India’s oldest and most systematic schools of philosophy. Often regarded as the philosophical backbone of Yoga and Vedanta, Sankhya presents a dualistic view of reality—one that distinguishes sharply between consciousness (Purusha) and matter or nature (Prakriti). The study is based on the classical text Sankhya Kārikā, composed by Īśvarakṛṣṇa around 400–500 CE. Unlike traditions grounded in mythology or belief, Sankhya emphasizes rational inquiry, introspection, and direct knowledge. It offers a clear map to identify the roots of suffering, understand the play of the gunas (sattva, rajas, tamas), and uncover the eternal self beyond all change.

Module Two explores the Katha Upanishad, one of the most poetic and spiritually resonant texts of the Vedic tradition. Framed as a dialogue between the young seeker Nachiketa and Yama, the god of death, this Upanishad addresses life’s most essential questions: What happens after death? What is the soul? What brings true fulfillment? Through guided lessons that weave together story, symbolism, and philosophy, students are introduced to the inner journey of self-realization, the discernment between Preyas (pleasure) and Shreyas (wisdom), and the metaphor of the chariot as a map of human experience. With deep roots in contemplative tradition, the Katha Upanishad speaks directly to the modern seeker—calling us inward, toward stillness and truth.

 

Why you should take this course:

Learn the foundational wisdom that underpins Yoga and Vedanta

Explore both philosophical clarity (Sankhya) and spiritual depth (Katha Upanishad)

No prior knowledge of Sanskrit or Indian philosophy required

Engage with life’s deepest questions through a structured, story-based approach

Gain practical tools for peace, self-inquiry, and spiritual clarity

Understand the core causes of suffering and how to move beyond them

Grounded in a lineage of authentic scholarship from Mysore, India

Apply timeless principles to modern, everyday situations

Cultivate discriminative awareness, courage, and inner stillness

Build a strong foundation for continued spiritual and philosophical study

This Course Includes: 

Two in-depth modules on Sankhya Philosophy and the Katha Upanishad

Live & recorded teachings originally taught from Mysore, India

Verse-by-verse exploration of each text, with rich commentary and practical insight

Sanskrit terms translated and clearly explained

Philosophical inquiry + contemplative reflection

Supplemental materials: PDFs, charts, summaries, and journaling prompts

Lifetime access so you can revisit and deepen your understanding over time

 

 

Course Overview: 

Together, these two modules offer a rare opportunity to study India’s philosophical heritage in a way that is structured, experiential, and profoundly relevant. Whether you are new to these teachings or looking to deepen your practice, this course offers a path of clarity, courage, and inner freedom. With two thoughtfully structured modules and lifetime access to all content, this course is a lasting resource for anyone seeking insight, transformation, and connection to ancient wisdom.