Yoga Shatakam

The “Yoga Shatakam” is a profound Sanskrit poem attributed to the sage Adi Shankaracharya. It consists of six stanzas (shatakam means six in Sanskrit), each describing the nature of the true self (atman) and the principles of Advaita Vedanta (non-dualistic philosophy). Here’s a brief description in English:

1. Identity of the Self: The first stanza asserts that the true self is not the body, mind, or intellect, but the pure consciousness beyond these.
2. Detachment from Worldly Attachments: The second stanza emphasizes detachment from the transient aspects of life (such as possessions and relationships) and the importance of seeking the eternal self.
3. Endurance of Opposites: The third stanza teaches equanimity in the face of pleasure and pain, as they are temporary and don’t define the true self.