The Eight Limbs of Yoga, also known as Ashtanga Yoga, are foundational principles originating from the Yoga Sutras, a collection of ancient scriptures written by the Indian sage Patanjali around 500 B.C. These texts, composed over several centuries, offer profound insights into the philosophy and practice of yoga. Patanjali did not invent yoga but rather systematized and compiled existing ideas and practices. His contribution, however, is monumental in codifying the eight-limbed path and emphasizing that stilling the mind is key to the practice of yoga.
We know little about the historical Patanjali, with some scholars placing his birth around 300 B.C. Despite the mystery surrounding his identity, Patanjali’s influence is undeniable. His work provides a comprehensive guide to overcoming the kleshas, the causes of suffering, through an eight-limbed system called Ashtanga or Raja Yoga. The term ‘ashtanga’ is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Asta” (eight) and “Anga” (limbs). In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali presents yoga as a practice of surrendering to a higher power, recognizing that this power resides both within and outside of us. The eight steps outlined by Patanjali are meant to be followed sequentially, each step building upon the previous one:
- Yama: social rules – how you behave with others and society
- Niyama: personal rules – duties directed towards the self
- Asana: postures
- Pranayama: breath control
- Pratyahara: sense withdrawal
- Dharana: concentration
- Dhyana: meditation
- Samadhi: bliss
In this blog post, we will focus on the first two limbs: the Yamas and the Niyamas.
Yamas:Social Contracts and Ethical Disciplines
The Yamas are ethical guidelines primarily concerned with how we interact with the world around us. They are essential for cultivating a harmonious relationship with society and ensuring that our yoga practice extends beyond the mat. The five Yamas are:
- Ahimsa: Non-violence Ahimsa emphasizes the importance of not causing harm to any living being through thoughts, words, or actions. It promotes compassion and kindness, fostering an environment where all beings can thrive.
- Satya: Truthfulness Satya encourages honesty in thought, speech, and action. By embracing truthfulness, we create an atmosphere of trust and integrity, enabling deeper connections with others and ourselves.
- Asteya: Non-stealing Asteya involves refraining from taking what does not belong to us, whether material possessions, ideas, or time. It calls for contentment and gratitude, reducing greed and envy.
- Brahmacharya: Right use of energy Traditionally interpreted as celibacy, Brahmacharya is more broadly about using our energy wisely and not overindulging in sensory pleasures. It encourages moderation and focus on our spiritual goals.
- Aparigraha: Non-hoarding Aparigraha means not accumulating unnecessary possessions and letting go of material attachments. This practice fosters simplicity and freedom, allowing us to focus on our inner growth.
Niyamas:Personal Contracts and Self-Discipline
The Niyamas are personal practices that guide us in maintaining a healthy and balanced inner life. They are principles that help us cultivate self-discipline and inner strength. The five Niyamas are:
- Saucha: Purity Saucha involves cleanliness of body and mind. It includes physical cleanliness and purity of thoughts and emotions, helping us maintain a clear and focused mind.
- Santosha: Contentment Santosha is about finding contentment and joy in the present moment, regardless of external circumstances. It teaches us to cultivate gratitude and acceptance, fostering inner peace.
- Tapas: Self-discipline Tapas refers to the discipline and effort required to maintain a regular practice. It involves embracing challenges and enduring hardships with a positive attitude, strengthening our willpower and resilience.
- Svadhyaya: Self-study Svadhyaya is the practice of self-reflection and studying sacred texts. It encourages us to explore our inner world and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our spiritual path.
- Ishvara Pranidhana: Surrender to a higher power Ishvara Pranidhana involves surrendering to a higher power and recognizing the presence of the divine in our lives. It fosters humility and trust, helping us let go of ego and embrace a sense of unity with the universe.
By integrating the Yamas and Niyamas into our lives, we create a strong foundation for our yoga practice, allowing us to grow both spiritually and personally.
Explore the Eight Limbs of Yoga in Depth
If you are inspired by the wisdom of the Eight Limbs of Yoga and wish to deepen your understanding and practice, consider joining our upcoming 50-Hour Yoga Immersion training starting September 6, 2024. This comprehensive program will delve into the intricacies of the eight limbs and much more, providing you with the tools and knowledge to enhance your yoga journey. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to yoga, this immersion will offer valuable insights and practical techniques to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling practice.
Click here to learn more about the Yoga Immersion training and reserve your spot today!