Eight Limbs of Yoga
Patanjali's eight-step methodology for expanding individual consciousness to universal Consciousness and attaining enlightenment.
Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga
Patanjali's Yoga Sutras outline eight methods to attain enlightenment, known collectively as Ashtanga Yoga:
- Yama — five restraints
- Niyama — five observances
- Asana — postures
- Pranayama — control of the vital force
- Pratyahara — withdrawal of the senses
- Dharana — focusing attention on an object or mantra; one-pointed awareness (likened to the continuous flow of oil in the panchakarma procedure shirodhara)
- Dhyana — meditation; a continuous flow of attention without words or thoughts; moment-to-moment awareness without judgment
- Samadhi — balance of body, mind, and consciousness; an expansive state of choiceless, passive awareness; spiritual bliss
The ultimate end of yoga is samadhi, the merging of the lower self into the higher Self, where body, mind and spirit become one in the state of liberation.
Source: Textbook of Ayurveda: Fundamental Principles, Chapter One: Shad Darshan (Six Philosophies of Life)
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