Do I Really Need to Study Yoga Philosophy?

Olivier Charles
Sep 26
2 min read

It’s a question that often arises—sometimes quietly, sometimes directly: Do I really need to study yoga philosophy?

Especially when so many of us come to yoga first through the body, through asana. But the longer we stay in the practice, the more we’re invited—not forced, but gently invited—to turn inward and ask more profound questions.

Yoga philosophy is not just about ancient texts or memorising Sanskrit terms. It’s about asking ourselves:

What do I believe?
What do I value?
Who am I becoming through this practice?

1. A Practice of Inquiry

Yoga philosophy encourages me to examine my inner world—not to find the right answer, but to be courageous enough to question my positions, challenge my views, and hold space for evolution.

Sometimes, this inquiry helps me let go of beliefs or values that no longer serve me. Other times, I discover new ideas—truths that resonate deeply but take time to integrate fully. And sometimes, I come full circle, returning to a principle I’ve always known, now with deeper clarity and conviction.

I may not always agree with others—or even with myself. But I learn to sit with the questions, to explore what defines me without rushing to conclusions. This, too, is my yoga.

2. The Strength in Humility

We live in a time when everyone seems to have an opinion—often loudly and instantly.In contrast, yoga philosophy teaches humility.

It reminds me that I don’t always have the full picture. That my personal truth is valid—but not absolute . That strength isn’t always found in knowing, but in listening.

I’m still learning—and yoga keeps reminding me—that humility is not a sign of weakness. It is a quiet strength—a steady openness to learning and unlearning.

3. Philosophy Beyond the Scriptures

When I think of yoga philosophy, I don’t limit it to sacred ancient texts. Yes, the Yoga Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita, and other classical works are incredibly rich and meaningful. But philosophy can also live in books, poetry, conversations—anything that raises my consciousness, helps me see more clearly, and invites me to live more kindly.

Philosophy, in this way, is everywhere—if I’m willing to look deeply.

4. Self-Study as a Path

Yoga philosophy also lives in the Yamas and Niyamas—the ethical foundations of the yogic path. They invite me into self-inquiry, discipline, compassion, and contentment .They remind me that yoga is not just the shape I make with my body ,but a way of being in the world. And most importantly, a way of being with myself.