12/09/2018
The eight limbs of yoga were established in Patanjali's Yoga Sutra (which is a life-changing read, I highly recommend it). These eight steps act as guidelines on how to lead a meaningful and purposeful life. They direct attention to one's health, serve as guidance for moral and ethical conduct and self-discipline, and help us acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature.
Yama- One's ethical standards. How do I act towards others and how does this behavior effect those around me? "Treat others how you want to be treated". The five yamas are: Ahimsa (nonviolence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (nonstealing), Brahmacharya (continence), and Aparigraha (noncovetousness).
Niyama- Self-discipline and spiritual observances. The five niyamas are: Saucha (cleanliness), Samtosa (contentment), Tapas (heat/ spiritual austerities), Svadhyaya (study of scriptures and one's self), and Isvara pranidhana (surrender).
Asana- All of the postures and sequences of postures practiced in yoga. Through practicing asanas, we develop habitual discipline and the ability to concentrate, which are necessary for meditation.
Pranayama- ("life-force extension") Breath control and techniques to master the respiratory process while recognizing the connection between the breath, the mind, and emotions. Yogis believe that this practice not only rejuvenates the body but also extends life itself. By relaxing the body and mind, one becomes completely relaxed. This can lower stress, which is the culprit to many diseases that may shorten one's life. So, in a sense, that idea can hold truth!
Pratyahara- Withdrawal or sensory transcendence. In this stage, we make a conscious effort to draw our awareness away from the external world and stimuli. We cultivate a detachment from our senses, directing our attention internally. This practice allows us to step back and bring our attention toward our own feelings, needs, cravings, and so on. It also allows us to use these observations to potentially better ourselves and improve our lives.
Dharana- Concentration and dealing with the distractions of our minds. In this stage, we become self-observant, focusing our attention to a single point. Extended periods of concentration naturally lead to meditation.
Dhyana- Meditation or contemplation. The uninterrupted flow of concentration, or the act of being keenly aware without focus. Stillness of the body and mind.
Samadhi- The meditator reaches a state of ecstasy, a connection to the Divine, and an interconnectedness with all living things. Becoming one with the Universe. This may seem like a lofty concept to some but, as we pause to see what we really want to get out of life, we could agree that we all want the same thing: joy, fulfillment, freedom, and peace. This we could only experience ourselves and by no one else.
If you are interested in reading more about Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, I provided a link below where you can learn more about his sutras:
https://www.ashtangayoga.info/philosophy/quelltexte-und-mantren/yoga-sutra/chapter-1/
