Written by Anupama Verma
Yoga is often seen through the lens of Asana — the physical postures practiced in studios and homes around the world. But Asana is just one part of a much deeper and more ancient system. The Eight Limbs of Yoga, or Ashtanga, outlined by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, offer a comprehensive guide to living with purpose, awareness, and balance.
The journey begins with Yama and Niyama — ethical guidelines and personal observances that shape our interactions with the world and our relationship with ourselves. Yama includes principles such as non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, moderation, and non-possessiveness. Niyama encourages inner discipline through purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender to a higher power.
Then comes Asana, the physical postures that prepare the body to sit in stillness. While it’s the most visible part of yoga, it is only one stepping stone on the path. Following Asana is Pranayama — breath regulation — which helps control the life force, calm the mind, and create inner stability.
Pratyahara is the practice of withdrawing the senses from external distractions, redirecting attention inward. This inward turn creates the space for Dharana, or concentration — the ability to focus the mind on a single object or idea. From Dharana arises Dhyana, the quiet flow of meditation without interruption. Eventually, this leads to Samadhi, a state of absorption, unity, and expansive awareness.
The Eight Limbs are not a ladder to be climbed once, but a living, breathing guide to explore continually. They invite us beyond the physical, into a fuller expression of yoga — one that touches the body, mind, and spirit.
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