From Caution to Commitment: Sadhguru’s Evolution in Online Yoga Practices

Formerly wary of online yoga practices due to the uncommitted nature of some environments, Indian mystic Sadhguru now offers a variety of online resources for those seeking to practice yoga from home. This article explores whether these practices work and if they are safe, examining Sadhguru's principles and the evolution of his approach.

Online yoga practices, particularly through Upayoga, a subset of Hatha Yoga, and Inner Engineering, have both recorded and live components. For those who seek to practice yoga at home without much guidance, these online resources offer a simple and accessible solution. However, the true power of yoga lies in a committed atmosphere where both the student and the teacher are committed to the practice.

Safe and Effective Practice

Beginner meditation practices can be safely performed online with little guidance. However, more advanced yoga practices and Inner Engineering require specific guidance and training. These practices are typically conducted in certified Isha Yoga Centres by trained yoga teachers, ensuring that the student is fully initiated and committed.

The Commitment Paradox

Sadhguru has spoken about the importance of a committed atmosphere when teaching yoga. He once said that teaching yoga in an uncommitted atmosphere is dangerous. However, it is important to differentiate between the initial initiation and subsequent practice. Once a person has been initiated into a yoga practice, it is akin to a seed being planted. The only uncommitted atmosphere after initiation is one where the seed remains dormant, as in not practicing the yoga taught.

Just as mishandling electricity is dangerous, but households are allowed to use it due to the capability to handle it responsibly, the same principle applies to yoga. Humans must have the sense and attention to use both electricity and yoga safely. Sadhguru believes in empowering individuals to lead more sensible and conscious lives, promoting the use of online resources for those who can handle them responsibly.

Government and Education Analogy

When Sadhguru was asked during an In Conversation With The Mystic session with Karan Johar, what is essential for human beings, he replied with the word SENSE. It emphasizes the importance of individuals having the sense to handle power tools, electricity, or even yoga responsibly.

The Role of Sadhguru

Sadhguru’s role in promoting online yoga practices is not to undermine traditional methods but to ensure that they are handled with the same level of commitment and attention. By providing accessible online resources for beginner meditations, he is empowering a broader audience to experience the benefits of yoga. The ultimate goal is to encourage people to understand the depth of the practice and to find the commitment necessary to reap the full benefits.

In conclusion, Sadhguru’s approach to online yoga practices reflects a deeper understanding of the human capacity to handle power and responsibility. By bridging the gap between traditional and modern practices, he is paving the way for a more conscious and committed approach to yoga in the digital age.