Annual Jayantī Lecture: Embodied Practice in Jain Yoga

This paper provides a historical overview of postural yoga within the Jain tradition. The Jain practice of yogic postures (āsana or sthāna) is based on the conceptual framework of asceticism, and almost all early records are grounded in ascetic practices. Drawing on canonical texts such as the Ācārāṅga-sūtra, Sthānāṅga-sūtra, Uttarādhyayana-sūtra, and Aupapātika-sūtra, the presentation shows how postures were part of ascetic life, supporting meditation, contemplative practices (such as dhyānāsana), ritual observance, and penance (tapas). It concludes by tracing the modern evolution of postural yoga and the adaptation and introduction of new postures into Jain yogic traditions with a focus on health and wellbeing.

A dance performance will take place after the lecture, followed by an Indian vegan dinner. The event is free and open to the public.

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Host or Publisher The Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs