Best Non-Yoga Yoga Book Part 1: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
When thinking of life changing texts that aren’t directly about yoga but embody its essence, Marcus Aurelius' Meditations stands head-and-shoulders above the rest. I have always recommended it on yoga trainings pre-reading lists and to every teacher I have guided. Written nearly two millennia ago, this timeless work resonates deeply with the principles of yoga—connection, self-awareness, discipline, duty and reflection—making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
About the Author
Marcus Aurelius was Roman Emperor from 161 to 180 CE, often called the “philosopher-king”. Despite ruling an empire, his writings reveal a humble man wrestling with life’s challenges, seeking wisdom, and striving to live virtuously. Meditations was not intended for publication, it was a personal journal written to remind himself of how to navigate power, responsibility, and human vulnerability.
The Teachings of Meditations
The essence of Meditations lies in its ability to bridge the gap between ancient philosophy and modern struggles. Rooted in Stoicism, it offers guidance on self-awareness, resilience, duty, and the nature of existence. It doesn’t shy away from human vulnerability, exploring how to live with integrity amidst chaos.
Key themes include:
Power and Duty: Marcus writes extensively about wielding power with responsibility and humility, a reminder that leadership and influence should serve the greater good.
Self-Awareness: The book invites readers to examine their thoughts, actions, and reactions, much like yoga encourages mindfulness.
Vulnerability and Mortality: By reflecting on the fleeting nature of life, Meditations encourages us to find peace in the present moment, another parallel to yoga philosophy.
Relevance Today
The struggles Marcus Aurelius faced—stress, distractions, loss, and the pursuit of purpose—are universal. His reflections on managing emotions, staying grounded in the present, and aligning actions with values remain as pertinent today as they were in ancient Rome. Modern readers can apply his teachings to navigate the complexities of career, relationships, and inner growth, making this book a timeless companion for anyone striving for balance in life.
My Favourite Teachings
In truth theres too many to make a concise list, and like all great spiritual teachings, different passages speak to me at different times ion my life. So, as of today, these are the ones that come to mind.
“The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.”
Challenges are not obstacles but opportunities to grow. Everything that comes our way in life, is really helping us to become more complete. This mindset is vital for personal development and mirrors the yogic principle of tapas (discipline and effort).“When you wish to delight yourself, think of the virtues of those who live with you: the activity of one, the modesty of another, the generosity of a third, and so on. For nothing is so delightful as the images of the virtues shining through in the character of those who live with us and offer them in abundance.” This profound advice encourages focusing on others’ positive traits, which can inspire us and foster a more harmonious environment.. It’s easy to be hypnotised by the 24hour news cycle and even the trivial challenges of daily life, and believe the world is a dangerous place waiting to take advantage of you. In reality, the world is filled with far more kindness, love, support and positivity. Reminding yourself of the quality of those around you will make you feel safe, act as inspiration and also help you see the greatness and beauty inside of you.
“It is peculiar to man to love even those who do wrong. This happens if, when they act unjustly, it occurs to you that they are akin to you, and that they do wrong out of ignorance and against their will.” Marcus suggests that understanding the shared human condition fosters forgiveness and strengthens bonds. I was raised devoutly religious and for a huge portion of my childhood I would read the bible daily. The teachings of Jesus have always been the most valued to me; and this verses reminds me of his teachings on forgiveness. I recognise that I too am imperfect and make mistakes, often at the expense of others. If I’m to be deserving of their forgiveness, then I must be able to forgive others..
“Do every act of your life as though it were the last act of your life.”
This line has always reminded me of Alan Watts, another greater communicator of spiritual teachings. It’s a profound reminder to live with purpose, this echoes yoga’s focus on mindfulness—being present and intentional in every moment. We are on this planet for just a moment in time and before we realise it, we will no longer be here. Life life fully now.“We were born for cooperation, like feet, like hands, like eyelids, like the rows of the upper and lower teeth. To act against one another, then, is contrary to nature.” This passage suggests reminds me that love is a natural expression of our shared purpose to co-operate and live harmoniously. When we recognise our shared humanity, love becomes a guiding principle. Marcus Aurelius writes about love in a broad, philosophical sense, emphasising a universal, compassionate love for humanity and the natural order.
Meditations beautifully mirrors yoga’s teachings on self-discipline, introspection, and living with purpose. It serves as a guide for navigating life’s inevitable challenges while cultivating inner peace and resilience.
Whether you're a yoga practitioner or simply someone seeking wisdom, this book is a treasure trove of insights that transcend time and culture.
If you’re inspired by this exploration, stay tuned for more in this series of “Best Non-Yoga Yoga Books.” Let me know your thoughts, and if you’d like to explore how Meditations aligns with yoga practice, join one of my classes or workshops for a deeper dive.
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Thank you for reading,
Stuart Pilkington