The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Patanjali explores yoga fundamentals, one of the six orthodox philosophies of the Hindu religion, and is revered as one of the greatest texts of the practice of yoga. Comprised of 196 aphorisms dating back to 400 CE, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is divided into four chapters that explore the blissful state, the practice, the manifestation, and the liberation stages of yoga. The text includes the yamas, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi poses.

The philosophy has influences in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism thought, but can be applied to anyone's practice of meditation and yoga. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is an important and profound accompaniment to novices and accomplished yogis alike, as they delve deeper into the philosophy behind the practice.