8 Limbs of yoga

Yoga is an ancient Indian philosophy that has been around for thousands of years focusing on bringing the body, mind, and breath into harmony through breathing exercises, yoga poses, and meditation. Historically, Yoga was a spiritual practice, however, has become a very popular practice in Western society as a technique to improve physical, and mental health.

There are numerous styles of yoga, breathing techniques, and meditation that is practiced to work towards living a meaningful and purposeful life. However, the pathway to reach a full profound life remains the same, with an 8 step pathway, also known as ‘the 8 limbs of yoga’, or ‘ashtanga’:

8 Limbs of Yoga:

1. Yama: Ones ethical standards – ‘do unto others as you would have the, do unto you’. There are 5 yamas: Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha.

Ahimsa: Non-violence or non-judgement
Sataya: Truthfulness
Asteya: Non-stealing
Brahmacharya: Moderation
Aparigraha: Non-grasping/hoarding

2. Niyama: Self-control and spiritual observances.

Saucha: Cleanliness, purity - body, mind, environment and company.
Santosha: Gratitude, contentment
Tapas: Self-Discipline
Svadhyaya: Self-Study/Reflection
Isvara-pranidhana: Devotion, surrender, faith

3. Asana: Yoga poses.

4. Pranayama: Breath control - practices aimed at mastering the respiratory process while recognising the link between the breath, the mind, and emotions.

5. Pratyahara: Sensory transcendence or retreat.

6. Dharana: Focus.

7. Dyana: Meditation.

8. Samadhi: A State of Bliss.

8 Limbs of yoga

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