Tag: yoga philosophy

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Beyond Asana: Unveiling the Eight Limbs of Yoga

Tanisha Cardozo

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.

Aight Sky

Tracing the Path of Yoga: From Ancient India to Modern Practice

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Anupama Verma

Yoga is often associated with graceful poses and flexibility, but its origins and intentions are much deeper. This practice spans over 5,000 years, rooted in the spiritual soil of ancient India. More than a workout, yoga is a comprehensive lifestyle and philosophy designed to bring harmony to body, mind, and spirit.


From the Indus Valley to the Vedas

Archaeological evidence from the Indus Valley Civilization (circa 2700 BCE) reveals figures in meditative postures, hinting at early yogic practices. The Vedas, some of the oldest sacred texts, introduced the foundations of spiritual discipline, ritual, and devotion.

The Upanishads and Philosophical Depth

The Upanishads further explored the nature of existence, self, and the universal soul (Brahman). Concepts like breath control and inner stillness began to take shape, laying the groundwork for meditative practices that would later define yoga.

Classical Yoga and the Eight Limbs

Around 200 BCE to 200 CE, the sage Patanjali compiled the Yoga Sutras, outlining the Ashtanga or Eight Limbs of Yoga. This systematic approach to self-realization emphasizes:

  • Yama – Ethical disciplines
  • Niyama – Personal observances
  • Asana – Physical postures
  • Pranayama – Breath control
  • Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the senses
  • Dharana – Concentration
  • Dhyana – Meditation
  • Samadhi – Enlightenment

Unlike modern yoga’s focus on physicality, Patanjali’s framework is a roadmap to inner transformation.

Hatha Yoga and the Post-Classical Evolution

Between the 9th and 17th centuries, Hatha Yoga emerged as a vital system emphasizing asana, pranayama, and shatkarmas (cleansing techniques) to purify the body for spiritual awakening. Influential texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika shaped the practices many recognize today.

The Modern Revival and Global Spread

In 1893, Swami Vivekananda brought yoga philosophy to the West at the Parliament of the World’s Religions. Later, T. Krishnamacharya and his students (e.g., B.K.S. Iyengar, Pattabhi Jois) modernized yoga with a focus on dynamic physical postures. Their teachings sparked the contemporary yoga movement, now a worldwide phenomenon.

Yoga Today: A Global Practice with Ancient Roots

In modern wellness culture, yoga is often viewed through the lens of fitness. Yet at its heart, it remains a discipline of union—a practice integrating ethics, breath, mindfulness, and spirituality. While studios may emphasize asana, the full potential of yoga lies in embracing its eightfold path.

Yoga’s legacy is more than ancient history—it’s a living tradition that continues to evolve. Whether practiced for fitness or for spiritual growth, understanding its origins helps us honor the wisdom behind the movement.

🧘‍♀️ Embrace yoga not just as a practice, but as a way of life.