An Introduction to Yoga by Annie Besant
First published in 1908, Annie Besant’s An Introduction to Yoga presents yoga through the eyes of an influential Theosophical writer of the early twentieth century. It gathers four lectures delivered in Benares (now Varanasi) in December 1907, designed to help readers prepare for the more demanding Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.
What is inside the book?
Besant addresses the nature of yoga, the mind, consciousness and the possibility of inner transformation. The lectures are philosophical rather than a modern illustrated exercise course. Her goal was to make a complex set of ideas accessible to an audience interested in Indian thought and Theosophy.
Because this is a historical work, some of its language and interpretations will feel unfamiliar. That is part of its value: it shows how yoga was being presented to particular international audiences more than a century ago.
Who was Annie Besant?
Besant was an author, reformer and prominent figure in the Theosophical Society. These lectures reflect her reading of Indian philosophical traditions through a Theosophical lens. This is useful context when comparing her commentary with other translations of Patanjali or with living yoga traditions.
Is it a good beginner’s yoga book?
It is a reasonable introduction to historical ideas about yoga, but not a good choice if you primarily want photographs of poses or step-by-step routines. The NCCIH’s modern yoga overview explains how contemporary physical yoga commonly combines postures, breathing and meditation; Besant’s work focuses more heavily on philosophical questions.
Can I read it for free?
Yes. Project Gutenberg provides a free digital edition, making it easy to examine the original lectures before buying a paper copy. If you prefer a printed edition, compare publication details carefully: many reprints exist, and typesetting or supplementary material may differ.
Related on Veggie-Blog: The History of Yoga and What Is Yoga?.
Book: An Introduction to Yoga by Annie Besant
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