For many people, rolling out the yoga mat each morning is part of their daily routine. But do they know which tradition yoga comes from? The first yoga sutras – instructions for spiritual practice – are 2,500 years old and were adopted by Buddhism and Hinduism. Rediscovered by the Arabs in the Middle Ages, they also inspired Muslims, Christians and Jews to experience God in a mystical way. Philosophers like Schopenhauer discovered the possibility of pure knowledge in these ancient Indian teachings. And in the fight against colonial rule, they rocked the European sense of superiority.
In his book Yoga, Stefan Weidner describes how this gentle power from the East usurped the West in a view of the world that transcends all borders. By opening up a new chapter in global history, he shows that yoga is much more than a wellness trend. Host: Catherine Newmark

Contributors

Stefan Weidner © Sabine Lohmüller

Stefan Weidner

Stefan Weidner, Jahrgang 1967, studierte Islamwissenschaften,… This text was shortened for this overview. Follow the more-link to read the full text.

More About Stefan Weidner

Catherine Newmark © Johanna Ruebel

Catherine Newmark

Dr. Catherine Newmark holds a doctorate in philosophy. From 2007-2013… This text was shortened for this overview. Follow the more-link to read the full text.

More About Catherine Newmark

Books

Yoga

Yoga

Stefan Weidner
Hanser

978-3-446-27614-7

More

Event data

  • Date:

    Friday
    12. June 2026
    17:30

  • Pre € 24 | 21 (ermäßigt)

    Eve Evening fund price € 28 | 25 (ermäßigt)

  • COMEDIA Theater
    Roter Saal

    Vondelstraße 4-8
    Köln-Südstadt

    Google Maps

  • Accessibility

    • Induction loop Available
    • Wheelchair-accessible Available
    • Assistance dogs welcome Available
Unterstützt von:
Udo Keller Stiftung - Forum Humanum
 
Identity Foundation - Gemeinnützige Stiftung für Philosophie
 
Imhoff Stiftung
Medienpartner:
WDR5