The yoga tradition is rooted in Patanjali’s teachings which are, in turn, rooted in Vedic revelation. The Yoga Sutra-s of Patanjali represent a very unique text in human history because it is more like a science of mind and a science of religion, which is at the same time non-sectarian and not secular. Yoga philosophy was never secular because yoga didn’t exist in Vedic times separate from religion. It was connected to the whole spiritual journey, which traditionally was in the context of all world religions. Today we make the distinction between religion and spirituality, which is understandable, but traditionally there was no distinction. Religion was the science of spirituality. ..

Patanjali uses the word twice in the Yoga Sutra. One sutra [2.33] says, “Vitarkabadhane pratipaksha bhavanam.” That’s a very simple sentence. It means that when we have afflicted thinking, then “Pratipaksha bhavanam”: Contemplate and take another view—look at the situation from another perspective. In another sutra [2.34] Patanjali says if you have negative thinking that comes from anger, greed, or delusion, whether you’re actively in it or just thinking about it, the fruit will be unending suffering and ignorance. Therefore, “Pratipaksha bhavanam”: Take another view, reframe your perspective on the situation. ..