The Untethered Soul Book Study
A contemplative gathering exploring yoga philosophy through reading, reflection, and conversation
There is something powerful about gathering around a text that gently holds up a mirror to the mind.
After exploring the kleshas and selected teachings from the Yoga Sutras together, our Yoga Book Club at Yoga Among Friends in Downers Grove now turns toward a modern spiritual classic: The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer. Together we’ll open the conversation and begin noticing how these patterns described in yoga philosophy appear in everyday life. This gathering marks the beginning of our three-part exploration of the book.
Where the Sutras name the afflictions of the mind, Singer helps us see how these patterns unfold moment to moment in our everyday experience.
If avidya is misidentification, Singer asks:
Who is the one noticing the thoughts?
If asmita is ego-identification, he gently reveals how tightly we cling to the inner narrator.
If raga and dvesha are attachment and aversion, he shows how we close around pleasure and brace against discomfort.
If abhinivesha is fear-based gripping, he illuminates the subtle ways we contract against life itself.
This exploration becomes a practical doorway into Sutra 1.2 — yoga as the quieting of the fluctuations of the mind.
Rather than analyzing philosophy conceptually, we will explore it experientially through reading, reflection, and open conversation in a welcoming circle.
Singer’s invitation is simple and profound:
Notice the voice.
Notice the closing.
Practice relaxing instead of resisting.
Whether you joined our earlier studies of the Yoga Sutras or are new to yoga philosophy, you are warmly welcome. This gathering is not about having the right answers—it is about noticing what is already present.
Our Yoga Book Club at Yoga Among Friends in Downers Grove offers a welcoming space to explore spiritual books, yoga philosophy, and contemplative teachings together in community.
What to Expect
Each gathering includes:
• Reflection on selected passages from the book
• Thoughtful conversation in a small circle
• Exploration of how these teachings show up in daily life
• A welcoming and supportive community space
Many participants find that hearing others’ perspectives opens new ways of seeing their own experience.
Suggested Reading
For our first gathering, participants are encouraged (but not required) to read: Introduction through Chapter 4
You are welcome even if you haven't done the reading. The conversation will gently unfold together.
Event Details
Led by: Laura Jane Mellencamp
Location: Yoga Among Friends
4949 Forest Ave
Downers Grove, IL
Dates
March 21
Time
12:00–1:30 PM
Cost
$30 per session
Participants are encouraged to bring their own copy of The Untethered Soul.
Part of a three-session study of The Untethered Soul
• March 21 — Opening Gathering
• April 25 — Continuing the Conversation
• May 16 — Closing Reflection
Who This Is For
This gathering is open to anyone who feels drawn to explore yoga beyond the physical practice.
You may be:
• curious about yoga philosophy
• interested in spiritual texts and reflective conversation
• seeking a quiet space for insight and community
• continuing a journey of study and contemplation
No prior experience with yoga philosophy is needed. No prior reading required.
Curiosity is enough.
Join the Conversation
There is something special about exploring these teachings together—hearing how the same passage resonates differently in each person.
This first gathering will open the conversation and set the tone for the months ahead.
Space is intentionally limited to support meaningful conversation.
Each gathering can be attended individually. Even if you are new to the book or the discussion, you are warmly welcome to begin with us.
Part of the Yoga Among Friends Book Club
This gathering is part of our ongoing Yoga Book Club, a monthly space for exploring spiritual texts and contemplative teachings together.
If you'd like to learn more about the vision behind these gatherings, you can explore the Yoga Book Club page.