The Eight-Limb Path of Yoga
Posted on 14. Oct, 2009 by Margaret in Yoga
In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, the eightfold path is called ashtanga,which literally means “eight limbs” (ashta=eight, anga=limb). According to the Yoga Sutra, our pain and suffering is created by the misperception that we are separate from nature. The realization that we are not separate may be experienced without effort; however, most of us need guidance. Patanjali’s Eight Limbed Path provides us with the framework we need. These eight steps basically act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life.
Yama
The first limb, yama, or moral restraints, deals with one’s ethical standards and sense of integrity, focusing on our behavior and how we conduct ourselves in life.
The five Yamas are:
Ahimsa: nonviolence
Satya: truthfulness
Asteya: nonstealing
Brahmacharya: moderation
Aparigraha: nonhoarding
Niyama
Niyama, the second limb, has to do with self-discipline and spiritual observances. Regularly attending temple or church services, saying grace before meals, developing your own personal meditation practices, or making a habit of taking contemplative walks alone are all examples of niyamas in practice.
The five niyamas are:
Sauca: cleanliness, purity
Samtosa: contentment
Tapas: heat, zeal, austerity
Svadhyaya: self-study
Isvara pranidhana: devotion to a higher power
Asana – Postures
Pranayama – Mindful Breathing
Pratyahara – Turning Inward
Dharana – Concentration
Dhyana – Meditation
Samadhi – Union of the Self with Object of Meditation
