The Eight Limbs of Yoga
“represent a way of life for an individual based on the Yoga Sutras by the sage Patanjali in 400 CE/AD. These limbs are seen as a 'compass for life.' The Eight Limbs, when applied to one's daily living reveals the deepest layers of our Self, giving way to the freedom of living with confidence and compassion, love & enthusiasm." (Ruby)
YAMAS: social restraints & moral codes: Do unto others/Social Ethics. Personal Relationship with the world.
NIYAMAS: observances, rules & guideline: How to Treat the Self/Personal Practice
ASANA: yoga postures or poses. Care for the body. Develop discipline.
PRANAYAMA: use of breath. Reduce stress. Improve mental health.
PRATYAHARA: withdrawal. Disengage mind & control reactions.
DHARANA: concentration. Focus your attention.
DHYANA: meditation. State of complete immersion.
SAMADHI: bliss or enlightenment. Highest state.
The earlier limbs (Yamas & Niyamas) focus primarily on basic ethical teachings. The later limbs focus on internal concepts such as meditation & spirituality.
Yamas: First of the Eight Limbs.
1. Ahimsa: nonviolence/avoiding thoughts or actions that might harm others (nature). Send love & kindness to others and self.
2. Asteya: nonstealing/not stealing from others; nature & yourself. Be mindful of your consumption. Avoid appropriation.
3. Satya: truthfulness in words, thoughts & actions/observe reality with out judgement. Be honest with yourself. Honor your limits.
4. Aparigraha: non-possessiveness of material goods & people/let go of expectations & attachments. Let go of "look like" & experience.
5. Brachmacharya: celibacy or fidelity/conservation of energy or moderation. Find ways to relax & recharge to do the things that are really important to you. Appropriate relationships.
Niyamas Second Limb of the Eight Limbs
1. Saucha: cleanliness or purity, personal hygiene/ Cleanse yourself of thought or habits that no longer serve you.
2. Santosha: contentment in your life as it is/ practicing non-judgement. Spend time in nature. Journal.
3. Tapas: self-discipline or "burning enthusiasm"/ Keep agreements you make with yourself. Set intentions (sankalpas) as a way to practice self-discipline.
4. Svadhyaya: self-reflection/ ways to experience self-reflection (how your body feels whilst practicing yoga).
5. Ishvarapranidhana: surrender to a higher power. Take time to connect with your beliefs. Spiritual practice, take time in nature.
Resources: Ruby, Mary: https://www.yogamotion.com/2014/10/02/eight-limbs-yoga-journey-toward-self/ https://www.ekhartyoga.com/articles/philosophy/the-8-limbs-of-yoga-explained
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