This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit ancientfutures.substack.com

What’s the purpose of yoga and where does it lead? 🤔

In his forthcoming book, Ranju Roy compares the process of practice to going on a pilgrimage. The journey spirals inwards and outwards, from deep contemplation to communal gatherings, and goals are less important than walking the path.

The book includes Ranju’s own sūtras – i.e. pithy expressions of practical pointers – interspersed with stories from decades of experience as a teacher and practitioner. Our conversation dives deep into both. Along the way, we hear about:

* A minibus tour of Cotswolds tearooms with B.K.S. Iyengar

* The pitfalls of “preparing to meditate” without ever doing so

* Why Sāṃkhya provides a useful map to contemporary territory

* What distinguishes Life from life – and whether that’s divine

* How individual experience relates to something universal

Ranju’s book is available in hardback – including your name if you order a copy by October 31. This exclusive edition, signed by the author and featuring his paintings, will help to cover production costs for a paperback version next year.

In other impending deadlines, early bird rates for next year’s Swiss retreat expire on October 31. And from November 5, I’m running a men’s group called Power to Relate.

If you enjoy the conversation, and would like to fuel more, please consider subscribing or buy me a coffee... All donations are greatly appreciated!