An Introduction to Indian Philosophies: The Roots of Yoga and Beyond
India is home to some of the world’s oldest and most sophisticated systems of philosophy. At the heart of these teachings lies the quest to understand the nature of the self, the universe, and ultimate freedom (moksha). Whether you are a yoga practitioner or a teacher in training, understanding the philosophical foundation of yoga helps you go beyond physical practice into true transformation.
In this blog, we explore the main Indian philosophical systems that have shaped Yoga and spiritual practice for centuries—plus how you can study them deeply through our Yoga Teacher Training Courses in Rishikesh.
The Six Classical Indian Philosophies (Shad Darshanas)
The six orthodox (āstika) schools of Indian philosophy are those that accept the authority of the Vedas. These include:
1. Samkhya – The Blueprint of Creation
Samkhya is one of the oldest schools and is foundational to the philosophy of classical Yoga, particularly as seen in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.
Core Teachings: Dualism of Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter)
Yoga Connection: Provides the metaphysical basis for Raja Yoga
You can explore this more in our 300-Hour Advanced Yoga Teacher Training where we cover Samkhya in depth.
2. Yoga – The Practical Path to Liberation
The Yoga school, systematized by Patanjali, builds on Samkhya and focuses on practical methods to still the mind and reach self-realization.
Core Text: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Eight Limbs: Ethical living, posture, breathwork, concentration, meditation, and more
Join our 200-Hour Yoga TTC in Rishikesh to embody these teachings directly.
3. Nyaya – The Logic of Liberation
Nyaya is a system of logic and epistemology that helps seekers discern truth through reason and debate.
Relevance: Vital for understanding scriptural interpretation and philosophical clarity
Use in Yoga: Cultivates discrimination (viveka) and clear thinking
4. Vaisheshika – The Science of Elements
This school classifies reality into categories of existence and forms the early base of Indian atomism.
Link to Yoga: Helps understand the subtle elements and koshas (sheaths) that yogis experience in deep practice
5. Mimamsa – The Ritual Path
Mimamsa focuses on Vedic rituals as a path to dharma and cosmic harmony.
Less Known to Yogis, but its influence is seen in mantra, fire ceremonies, and ethical conduct
Our 100-Hour Yoga Teacher Training includes vedic chanting and fire rituals inspired by this tradition.
6. Vedanta – The Wisdom of Oneness
Vedanta is the crown jewel of Indian philosophy, culminating in the teachings of non-duality (Advaita) and the realization of the Self as Brahman.
Core Texts: Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras
Yoga Relevance: Forms the philosophical base for Jnana Yoga and Self-Inquiry
We explore Vedanta extensively in satsangs and discussions during our Yoga Trainings.
Non-Orthodox (Nastika) Indian Philosophies
These traditions do not accept the authority of the Vedas but offer profound insights:
Buddhism – The Path of Mindfulness
Founded by the Buddha, this tradition emphasizes impermanence, suffering, and the path to liberation through awareness and compassion.
Yoga Connection: Strong overlap with Vipassana, Metta Meditation, and our own Mindfulness & Meditation Courses
Jainism – The Path of Non-Harm
Known for strict non-violence (ahimsa) and asceticism, Jainism emphasizes karma, discipline, and the soul's liberation through purification.
Yogic Value: Inspires deeper ethical grounding in practice
Tantra – The Path of Energy & Wholeness
Tantra seeks liberation through the body, senses, breath, and sacred rituals, rather than renunciation.
Yoga Link: Basis for Hatha Yoga, Kundalini, Mantra, Mudra, and Yoga Nidra
We explore Tantric methods in our Yoga Nidra Online Teacher Training.
Why Understanding Indian Philosophy Matters for Yoga Teachers
As a modern yoga teacher, merely practicing or teaching asana is not enough. To guide others on the path, you must:
Understand the roots of yoga
Be able to differentiate between traditions
Offer philosophical context to your students
Teach from integrity, depth, and authenticity
How We Teach Philosophy at Moola Yoga Rishikesh
At Moola Yoga, we bring Indian philosophy to life through:
Daily Philosophy Classes
Scriptural Chanting (Bhagavad Gita, Yoga Sutras)
Group Discussions & Satsangs
Traditional Teachers from Rishikesh
Private Sessions with Ayurvedic & Spiritual Mentors
Whether you’re joining us for a foundational 200-Hour Yoga TTC, a short 100-Hour Immersion, or an Online Course, you’ll be guided into the depth of yogic wisdom—not just postures.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Explore our trainings and take the first step into the heart of authentic yoga:
Final Thoughts
Indian philosophy is not dry or academic—it is a living science of consciousness. By understanding the core ideas of systems like Samkhya, Yoga, Vedanta, and Tantra, you begin to see yoga as it truly is: a path to inner freedom.
At Moola Yoga Rishikesh, we are honored to hold space for these teachings in the very land they originated.
