Doing the Right Thing – Yoga and Ethical Dilemmas | Yoga Philosophy Club
Daniel Simpson | Wednesday 14 January 2026 7-9 pm | £30
Yoga texts highlight ethics but say little about worldly life. We reflect on values that help us navigate everyday challenges.
- How do we define right action? How much does it depend on context?
- Are Patañjali’s yamas and niyamas the most helpful list of guidelines?
- Might we have different priorities? If so, are other qualities relevant?
- Do yogic practices lead to good conduct automatically? If not, why not?
About the Yoga Philosophy Club | LIVESTREAM
Yoga philosophy offers an invaluable framework for living with greater clarity, connection and wisdom. This monthly online gathering is a supportive space to explore yogic insights in dialogue – a place for teachers and practitioners of yoga to reflect together on how ancient ideas can support modern lives.
Sessions are facilitated by Daniel Simpson, whose blend of scholarly knowledge and light-hearted humour makes timeless teachings accessible and relevant. Whatever your experience with studying philosophy, these meetings provide an opportunity to think deeply and unpack yogic wisdom.
Each session is structured around a core theme, introduced by a short presentation providing context. Then there is time and space for questions, reflection and lively, open discussions. Questions are welcome about any topic, so it’s also a great opportunity for practical guidance on anything related to yoga philosophy and how you might bring that into your yoga classes if you are a teacher.
You’re free to attend any session as a standalone, or to build a pathway through the year by joining regularly. Those who attend five sessions over 12 months get a discounted rate – and these hours will count towards your 300-hour certification if you are part of that programme.
We meet online every few weeks, alternating between Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:00–9:00 pm. See below for the schedule.
Purchase a multi-session pass, which gives you credits to book five discounted sessions of your choosing from the topics below. Valid 12 months.
Daniel Simpson
Yoga Philosophy Teacher
Daniel Simpson is the author of The Truth of Yoga, an accessible guide to yoga history and philosophy. His approach is engaging and fun, combining scholarly knowledge with humour and insight, while exploring the links between traditional wisdom and modern priorities.
Daniel first encountered yoga in India in the 1990s, and has returned for frequent visits since then. He has studied extensively with teachers in Rishikesh, Pune and Mysore, among other places, as well as attending the Maha Kumbh Mela – the world’s biggest pilgrimage.
He holds an MA in Traditions of Yoga and Meditation from SOAS in London, having earlier studied history at Cambridge before a career as a foreign correspondent. He now teaches courses at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, and contributes to yoga teacher trainings in the UK and internationally.
He also hosts the Ancient Futures podcast.