35 powerful learnings from Inner Engineering by Sadhguru

Inner Engineering is a guide to harnessing the power of the mind and using it to create a more joyful and fulfilling life. Through the ancient technology of yoga, we can access our inner energy and consciousness, and use it to transform every aspect of our lives. Whether you’re seeking to improve your relationships, career, or overall well-being, Inner Engineering offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to personal growth and spiritual evolution.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part provides an overview of the principles of yoga and how they can be applied to modern life. Sadhguru explains how the mind and body are interconnected and how the practice of yoga can help to align them, leading to a greater sense of balance and well-being. He also discusses the nature of the self and the role of the ego in shaping our perceptions and experiences.

The second part of the book is more practical, offering a step-by-step guide to various yoga practices. These include asanas (yoga postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), and meditation. Sadhguru provides detailed instructions and illustrations for each practice, along with tips on how to incorporate them into daily life. He also provides guidance on how to overcome common obstacles to practicing yoga, such as lack of time and motivation.

Throughout the book, Sadhguru emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-inquiry. He encourages readers to question their assumptions and beliefs, and to seek a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. He also stresses the importance of consistency and perseverance in practicing yoga, and how it can transform one’s life.

Some key takeaways and valuable learnings from Inner Engineering by Sadhguru include:

1. The mind and body are interconnected: Yoga can help align them by bringing awareness to the physical sensations in the body, and how they relate to thoughts, emotions, and mental states. For example, practicing yoga asanas can release physical tension and help to calm the mind, while pranayama (breathing exercises) can help to regulate the breath, which in turn can help to regulate the mind.
2. Overcoming obstacles with yoga: One common obstacle is lack of time, but incorporating yoga practices such as pranayama into daily routine can be done in a few minutes. Another obstacle can be lack of motivation, but the book suggests that by developing a regular practice, one can experience the benefits of yoga such as greater focus, energy, and well-being, which can in turn increase motivation to continue practicing.
3. The importance of self-awareness and self-inquiry: Through self-awareness and self-inquiry, one can learn to observe their thoughts, emotions and reactions without judgment, allowing for a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around.
4. The role of the ego and its impact: The ego is the sense of “I” or “me” that we all have, but it can also create a sense of separation from others, and cause negative thoughts, emotions, and actions. Inner Engineering suggests that by becoming aware of the ego and learning to observe it without identification, one can reduce its negative influence on one’s life.
5. The importance of consistency and perseverance in yoga practice: Yoga is not just a physical practice but also a practice of inner transformation, it takes time and consistency to see the benefits, and the book suggests that by staying committed to the practice, one can experience profound changes in their lives.
6. Personal growth and spiritual evolution: Through the practice of yoga, one can develop greater self-awareness, inner peace, and a sense of connection to something greater than themselves. This can lead to personal growth, spiritual evolution, and a deeper understanding of the nature of reality.
7. The benefits of regular yoga practice for physical, mental and emotional health: Regular yoga practice can help improve flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reduce stress, anxiety and depression.
8. Inner transformation and its impact: The book suggests that by undergoing inner transformation, one can experience a shift in perspective, leading to a more joyful and fulfilling life.
9. The power of breath: The breath is a powerful tool for self-awareness and meditation, learning to control the breath can help to calm the mind, reduce stress, and increase focus.
10. The potential of inner engineering to bring about a positive change in society: Inner engineering is not just about personal growth, but also about creating a more harmonious and compassionate society. The book suggests that by transforming ourselves, we can also positively impact the world around us.

11. The concept of “Isha” and “Sadashiva” – Isha is the individual self, and Sadashiva is the universal self, the book suggests that by realizing the connection between the two, one can transcend the limitations of the individual self and access a deeper sense of well-being and fulfillment.
12. Understanding the role of energy in the body: Inner Engineering explains that yoga practices can help to balance and optimize the flow of energy in the body, leading to greater physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For example, certain asanas and pranayama techniques can help to release blocked energy and bring balance to the body’s energy centers (chakras).
13. The power of intention and focus: The book suggests that by setting a clear intention and maintaining focus during yoga practices, one can harness the power of the mind to create positive change in their lives. For example, setting an intention to develop greater self-awareness during meditation can help to deepen the practice and bring about greater insight.
14. The importance of letting go: Inner Engineering suggests that by learning to let go of negative thoughts, emotions and attachments, one can experience greater freedom and fulfillment. For example, practicing yoga can help to release physical and mental tension, and let go of limiting beliefs and negative habits.
15. The role of kriyas in purifying the body and mind: Inner Engineering explains that certain yoga practices called kriyas can be used to purify the body and mind. For example, the practice of kapalabhati pranayama (a type of breathing technique) can help to cleanse the lungs, improve respiratory function, and clear the mind.
16. The concept of Inner Engineering: The book explains that Inner Engineering is the process of re-engineering one’s self through the mastery of one’s energy and consciousness. It offers a holistic approach to personal growth and spiritual evolution and allows individuals to create a more joyful and fulfilling life. For example, Inner Engineering can be used to improve relationships, career, and overall well-being.
17. The Importance of Guru-Shishya relationship: Inner Engineering explains that the relationship between a Guru (teacher) and Shishya (student) is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and self-discovery. The Guru’s guidance, presence and teachings can help catalyze the student’s inner transformation. For example, having a Guru to guide and support you on your journey can help you stay on track and overcome obstacles.
18. The Role of Upa-yoga: Upa-yoga is a set of practices that activate and balance the energy in the body, and according to Inner Engineering, it can be done by anyone, anywhere, and at any time, making it accessible for everyone. For example, Upa-yoga can be practiced during a break at work, or before going to sleep to relax and balance the body’s energy.
19. The power of Mantra: Inner Engineering explains the power of Mantra in creating a positive change in life. Mantra is a sound or vibration that is repeated as a form of meditation, it can be used to align the mind and create a positive change in the body and mind. For example, repeating the mantra “Om” can help to bring a sense of calm and balance to the mind.
20. The importance of Surrender: Inner Engineering explains that surrendering to the present moment and letting go of expectations, judgments and control can lead to a more fulfilling life. For example, surrendering to the present moment during yoga practices can help to release physical and mental tension, and allow for a deeper experience of the practice.
21. The concept of Inner Management: Inner Engineering explains that Inner Management is the process of managing one’s energy and consciousness to create a more fulfilling life. It offers techniques to manage emotions, thoughts, and energy levels to become more productive, efficient and stable in daily life. For example, learning to manage stress through Inner Management techniques can help to improve work performance and productivity.
22. The importance of Karmic patterns: Inner Engineering explains that certain patterns of behavior and thought are repeated throughout one’s life and are known as Karmic patterns. Understanding these patterns and learning to release them can help to break free from negative cycles and create positive change in life. For example, recognizing a Karmic pattern of self-doubt and learning to release it can lead to greater confidence and self-esteem.
23. The Role of Kundalini: Inner Engineering explains that Kundalini is the dormant energy located at the base of the spine, and when awakened, it can lead to a spiritual breakthrough and self-realization. For example, awakening the Kundalini energy can help to overcome obstacles on the spiritual journey and access higher states of consciousness.
24. The power of Bhakti: Inner Engineering explains that Bhakti is the path of devotion, it is the act of surrendering to a higher power and surrendering the ego. By practicing Bhakti, one can access deeper states of love and connection to the divine. For example, practicing Bhakti through singing devotional songs or reciting prayers can help to cultivate a deeper sense of devotion and connection.
25. The importance of Detachment: Inner Engineering explains that detachment is the process of separating oneself from the things that bind one to the material world. By learning to detach from material possessions and external validation, one can experience greater freedom and inner peace. For example, practicing detachment through a process of letting go and simplifying one’s life can lead to a greater sense of contentment and fulfillment.
26. The concept of Inner Transformation: Inner Engineering explains that Inner Transformation is the process of changing one’s inner being, by changing the way one perceives and experiences the world. It can be achieved through regular yoga practice, self-inquiry, and the guidance of a Guru. For example, Inner Transformation can lead to a change in perspective and a shift in the way one lives their life, leading to greater joy and fulfillment.
27. The importance of Beingness: Inner Engineering explains that Beingness is the state of being present and aware in the present moment. By cultivating Beingness, one can access a deeper sense of inner peace and connection to the self. For example, practicing meditation and yoga can help to develop Beingness, leading to a greater sense of inner calm and focus.
28. The role of the Five Koshas: Inner Engineering explains that the Five Koshas are the five layers of the self, each representing a different aspect of the human experience. By understanding and working with the Five Koshas, one can access deeper levels of self-awareness and inner transformation. For example, working with the Five Koshas can help to understand and release mental and emotional blockages, leading to greater inner balance and well-being.
29. The power of Grace: Inner Engineering explains that Grace is the energy of the divine that flows through all of creation. By cultivating a connection to Grace, one can access a deeper sense of inner peace, love, and connection to the divine. For example, practicing devotion and surrender can help to cultivate a connection to Grace, leading to a greater sense of inner fulfillment and spiritual growth.
30. The importance of Inner Engineering in society: Inner Engineering explains that Inner Engineering can not only change the individual but also can bring about a positive change in society and the world. By transforming ourselves, we can also positively impact the world around us. For example, by cultivating inner peace, compassion, and understanding, we can create a more harmonious and peaceful society.
31. The concept of Yogic Science: Inner Engineering explains that Yoga is not just a physical practice but also a science of inner transformation. It offers a systematic approach to understanding the mind and consciousness, and can be used to improve one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. For example, understanding the science of Yoga can help to create a more holistic approach to personal growth and self-improvement.
32. The importance of Sankalpa: Inner Engineering explains that Sankalpa is a powerful tool for creating positive change in life. It is a statement of intention or resolve, made with the power of will and focus. For example, setting a Sankalpa such as “I will practice yoga every day” can help to create a sense of commitment and motivation to stick to a regular yoga practice.
33. The role of Vairagya: Inner Engineering explains that Vairagya is the process of detaching oneself from the things that bind one to the material world. It can be cultivated through the practice of non-attachment and renunciation. For example, cultivating Vairagya can help to release attachment to material possessions and external validation, leading to a greater sense of inner peace and freedom.
34. The power of Dhyan: Inner Engineering explains that Dhyan is the practice of meditation, it is the process of training the mind to focus and achieve a state of inner stillness. For example, practicing Dhyan can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall well-being.
35. The importance of Samskara: Inner Engineering explains that Samskara are the impressions or tendencies formed in the mind by past experiences, they can shape one’s thoughts, emotions, and actions. By understanding and releasing these impressions, one can break free from negative cycles and create positive change in life. For example, understanding and releasing negative Samskara, such as self-doubt or anger, can lead to greater self-confidence and inner peace.

Inner Engineering is a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation. Through the ancient technology of yoga, we can access our inner energy and consciousness, and use it to create a more joyful and fulfilling life. Whether you’re seeking to improve your relationships, career, or overall well-being, Inner Engineering offers a comprehensive and holistic approach to personal growth and spiritual evolution.

Remember, the ultimate goal of Inner Engineering is not just about personal growth, but also about creating a more harmonious and compassionate society. Inner Engineering is about re-engineering one’s self and creating a new reality for oneself and for the world. The journey of Inner Engineering is not just about reading the book, but about putting the knowledge into practice. It is about living it, and experiencing the transformation for yourself. May this book serve as a guide on your journey to inner freedom and fulfillment

We have a Yoga Space at Work Theater, our coworking space in Bangalore.

Learn more about our coworking space on Think Remote.