The Eight Limbs of Bliss

The philosophy of yoga was established in a book of verses or sutras by Patanjali over 2000 years ago. These sutras established an Ashtanga, (not to be confused by the 20th-century form of yoga), or eight limbs that would lead the practitioner to a state of blissfulness. The sutras further establish the details of each of these aspects of yoga. While the western practice of yoga is often fixated on the physical exercise of yoga or the asana limb, there is a tremendous benefit to learning and understanding the other seven limbs of yoga.

YAMAS

Observances with Others

ahimsa (non-harming)
satya (truthfulness)
asteya (non-stealing)
brahmacharya (moderation)
aparigraha (non-possesive)

NIYAMAS

Observances to Yourself

saucha (cleanliness)
santosha (contentment)
tapas (self-discipline)
svadhyaya (self-reflection)
ishvarapranidhana (surrender)

Asanas

The postures of yoga

Pranayama

Breath control affects our whole being!

Pratyahara

Withdrawal of the senses

Dharana

Concentration

Dhyana

Focussed Meditation

Samadhi

Bliss!

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