Quotes of Pattabhi Jois
Jack UtermoehlPattabhi Jois (1915–2009) is celebrated as the founder of Ashtanga yoga, a type of yoga that has shaped the face of modern yoga across the globe. Jois’s teachings emphasized discipline, rigorous practice, and the transformative power of the breath.
He studied directly under T. Krishnamacharya, one of the most influential figures in modern yoga, and brought his knowledge to the West, inspiring generations of practitioners. Jois's Ashtanga method provided the blueprint for many forms of popular yoga today, including power yoga and vinyasa flow.
1/ Who was Pattabhi Jois? 🧵
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
Pattabhi Jois (1915–2009) was a pioneering figure in modern yoga, widely recognized as the founder of Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga.
His influence in shaping Western yoga practices is unparalleled. Let’s dive into his history and contributions. pic.twitter.com/JKVyKKF92W
His focus on linking breath with movement created an accessible yet profound way for people to experience yoga’s true depth.
Pattabhi Jois Quotes
"Practice, practice, practice, and all is coming."
Jois’s most famous quote encapsulates the core of his teaching: consistency is key. In our modern world, where everyone wants immediate results, Jois’s wisdom reminds us that patience and daily effort are the secrets to true mastery. Whether in yoga, career, or personal growth—consistent practice brings transformation over time.
"Practice, practice, practice, and all is coming."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
The power of repetition and commitment cannot be understated. In our modern lives, where instant gratification is so tempting, this serves as a reminder: True growth takes time.
Show up for yourself daily, and…
"Yoga is 99% practice and 1% theory."
There is a tendency today to get caught up in theories—how yoga works, which technique is best, or what science says. Jois brings us back to the value of personal experience. The real understanding comes from doing. In life, it’s action, not overthinking, that yields progress.
"Yoga is 99% practice and 1% theory."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
We often get caught up in the intellectual side of things—reading, researching, talking about change.
Jois urges us to take action. Apply what you learn, put theory into practice, and let experience become the teacher.
"It is through the alignment of the body that I discovered the alignment of my mind, self, and intelligence."
Jois knew that the body and mind are not separate. Aligning the physical body brings a deeper alignment within, leading to clarity of thought and inner intelligence. In today’s stress-driven culture, focusing on physical alignment can help clear mental clutter and foster internal balance.
"It is through the alignment of the body that I discovered the alignment of my mind, self, and intelligence."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
In the chaos of modern living, body awareness can be a pathway to deeper self-connection.
Whether through yoga or any movement practice, using the body…
"Body is not stiff, mind is stiff."
Jois’s statement speaks to the power of the mind in determining our physical state. In our daily lives, it is often our mental resistance—stress, negative self-talk, fear—that holds us back more than physical limitations. By cultivating mental flexibility, we unlock potential in every area of life.
"Body is not stiff, mind is stiff."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
Flexibility, Jois taught, begins in the mind.
By approaching our daily struggles with openness rather than resistance, we can unlock more freedom—not just physically, but in all aspects of life.
It starts by recognizing the…
"The full asana is where you make the effort to touch the limit."
This quote emphasizes the importance of effort in personal development. Growth happens at the edge of our comfort zone. In yoga and life, embracing challenge—striving to touch that limit—leads to significant transformation and self-discovery.
"The full asana is where you make the effort to touch the limit."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
Jois believed in giving your best effort. Today, this means stepping out of your comfort zone, whether on or off the mat.
Challenge is what helps us grow, and touching your limit is about…
"Without yama (moral codes), there is no yoga."
Jois reminds us that yoga is not just about the physical postures but also about our conduct. Practicing non-violence, truth, and discipline forms the foundation for genuine yoga practice. In today’s world, where yoga is often seen as exercise, these ethical principles are what give it true depth.
"Without yama (moral codes), there is no yoga."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
Modern yoga is sometimes just seen as physical fitness.
Jois reminds us that yoga is first and foremost a practice of ethics—non-violence, truthfulness, self-discipline.
Practicing yama in our daily lives is what…
"Yoga is for internal purification, not external display."
In an age dominated by images and social media, Jois’s message is clear: Yoga is a tool for personal transformation, not for showing off. The inner work is what matters. By focusing on our internal journey rather than external validation, we find true fulfillment.
"Yoga is for internal purification, not external display."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
In the age of social media, it’s easy to confuse the pursuit of yoga with showing off difficult poses.
Jois brings us back to the root: It’s about internal transformation, not outward displays of…
"When breath control is correct, mind control is possible."
Breath is the link between body and mind. Modern stress often results from shallow or erratic breathing. Jois taught that by controlling the breath, we can control our minds, calm our emotions, and find peace amidst chaos—a crucial practice for today’s fast-paced lifestyle.
"When breath control is correct, mind control is possible."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 25, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
Breath is a powerful tool for managing modern stress.
Jois emphasizes the relationship between breath and the mind. By practicing deep, mindful breathing—whether in yoga or in moments of tension—we can…
"Yoga is a way of moving into stillness in order to experience the truth of who you are."
Stillness is a rare experience in today’s world of constant movement and distraction. Jois teaches that yoga is a tool to create that stillness, allowing us to connect with our true selves. Practicing yoga is about more than physical health—it is a journey to inner truth.
"Yoga is a way of moving into stillness in order to experience the truth of who you are."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 26, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
In today’s fast-paced world, stillness is rare but vital. Yoga helps us find a space where we can peel away layers of distraction and connect with our authentic selves.…
"Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self."
This powerful quote speaks to the ultimate purpose of yoga. It’s about discovering who we truly are, beyond the masks and conditioning of society. It’s a personal journey that each of us must undertake, and Jois invites us to find our way home through practice.
"Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the self."
— Jack Utermoehl (@AsivanaYoga) November 26, 2024
— Pattabhi Jois
This quote reflects the deeply personal nature of yoga.
It’s not about anyone else’s standards or achievements. In a world full of comparison, remember that yoga—and life—is a journey within.…
Integrating the Wisdom of Pattabhi Jois
The teachings of Pattabhi Jois invite us to embody dedication, patience, and an understanding that real transformation comes from within.
Related: Sri Sharath Jois of Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga yoga, with its disciplined approach, offers a mirror through which we can see our strengths and limitations. By committing to consistent practice, and applying the principles Jois emphasized—whether through breath, ethical conduct, or effort—we can bring the essence of yoga into our everyday lives.
