An Introduction to Yoga

"An Introduction to Yoga" by Annie Besant is a series of lectures that delves into the philosophy and practice of Yoga, presented in the early 20th century. The work outlines the foundational concepts of Yoga, connecting them with broader Theosophical ideas. The author aims to convey complex spiritual principles, particularly the interplay between inner consciousness and external reality, guiding students toward a deeper understanding of self-realization and enlightenment through practical applications. The opening of the text introduces the theme of Yoga as a systematic discipline focused on the unfolding of consciousness and the realization of the Self. Besant begins by discussing the nature of the universe and its relationship to the Self, emphasizing that the world exists to serve the Self’s evolution. She highlights the cyclical nature of consciousness and the role of Yoga in accelerating this process, ultimately establishing Yoga as a science grounded in the study of consciousness rather than mere mystical experience. The text establishes a framework for understanding Yoga's significance, setting the stage for further exploration in the subsequent lectures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Annie Besant was a British socialist, theosophist, freemason, women's rights and Home Rule activist, educationist and campaigner for Indian nationalism. She was an ardent supporter of both Irish and Indian self-rule. She became the first female president of the Indian National Congress in 1917.