Patanjali'sAshtanga Yoga, also known as the Eight Limbed Yoga, is a comprehensive system of yoga that includes eight interconnected practices or limbs. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, a collection of aphorisms compiled by the Indian sage Patanjali, provides the foundation for Ashtanga Yoga.
The eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga are:
- Yama (restraints): The five yamas are ethical guidelines that provide a framework for moral behavior. They include ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (celibacy or sexual restraint), and aparigraha (non-attachment).
- Niyama (observances): The five niyamas are personal practices that promote self-discipline and spiritual growth. They include saucha (purity), santosha (contentment), tapas (austerity), svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvarapranidhana (surrender to a higher power).
- Asana (postures): Asanas are physical postures that are designed to promote physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual awareness.
- Pranayama (breathing): Pranayama refers to breathing techniques that are used to regulate the flow of prana or life force energy in the body. This practice is believed to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
- Pratyahara (sense withdrawal): Pratyahara is the practice of withdrawing the senses from external stimuli and turning inward. This practice is believed to promote concentration and help prepare the mind for meditation.
- Dharana (concentration): Dharana is the practice of focusing the mind on a single point or object. This practice is believed to promote mental clarity and prepare the mind for meditation.
- Dhyana (meditation): Dhyana is the practice of deep meditation or contemplation. This practice is believed to promote spiritual awareness and self-realization.
- Samadhi (enlightenment): Samadhi is the ultimate goal of Ashtanga Yoga. It is a state of profound spiritual awareness and union with the divine.
In summary, Patanjali'sAshtanga Yoga is a comprehensive system of yoga that includes eight interconnected practices or limbs. These practices are designed to promote physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual awareness, ultimately leading to self-realization and enlightenment.
