Yoga is so much more than asana. However when most people think of Yoga, movement is the first thing that comes to mind. For a second I invite you to think of Yoga as a tree with multiple branches – eight to be exact. The physical practice of Yoga is actually only one of the 8 limbs of this yoga tree. But before we dive into all 8 limbs I have an important person to introduce – Patanjali.
Meet Patanjali – the Father of Modern Yoga
We can’t talk about the 8 Limbs of Yoga without talking about the man who created them, Maharshi Patanjali. He’s universally considered as the father of modern Yoga and for good reason. Patanjali was an ancient Indian Sage and philosopher who lived between the 2nd century BCE and the 4th century CE.
Patanjali earned the title, ‘the Father of Modern Yoga’ because he is the author of the Yoga Sutras. Think of the Yoga Sutras as the complete manual outlining the entire philosophy and practice of Yoga. The book itself is 252 pages in total and is broken down into 4 chapters. In this text, Patanjali defines the principles and practices of Yoga including its’ ethical guidelines, meditation techniques and spiritual goals. Lastly, the 8 Limbs of Yoga were introduced and are a component of the Yoga Sutras book.
Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Yoga – Explained
Now that we know who Patanjali is, let’s dive into the 8 Limbs of Yoga. The 8 Limbs of Yoga act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. I’ll list all of them below first and define each of them after.
In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras the eightfold path is called ashtanga, which is a Sanskrit word that means ‘eight limbs’, (‘ashta’ means eight and ‘anga’ means limb). By the way if you’ve never heard of Sanskrit before, it is an ancient Indo-European language of India. Many Hindu scriptures and classical Indian texts, just like the Yoga Sutras are written in this language.
The eight Limbs of Yoga are listed in order below. First by their Sanskrit names and then by their English translations/meanings.
Yamas – Ethical Principles
The very first limb of Yoga is Yama. This involves one’s ethical standards and sense of integrity. It focuses on our behavior and how we conduct ourselves in life. Think of Yama as the common practice/saying, ‘Treat others as you’d like to be treated.’ Yamas are further broken down into 5 subcategories.
Niyamas – Self Discipline
Moving right along to the second Limb of Yoga – Niyamas. A quick note here, Yamas and Niyamas are often paired together when talks of the 8 Limbs of Yoga are discussed. In-fact authoress Deborah Adele has an insightful book titled, ‘The Yamas & Niyamas’; it’s a quick read that gives space for self exploration and study.
Niyama simply put, deals with self-discipline and spiritual observances. Saying grace before meals, developing your own meditation practice, or regularly attending religious services are all examples of Niyama in action. Niyamas are also broken down into 5 subcategories just as Yamas.
Asana – Physical Postures
The third limb of Yoga is the one we all know – the physical postures. Patanjali placed deep importance on cultivating a steady and comfortable posture, which helps prepare the body for meditation, enhances physical well-being, and promotes balance and flexibility. This limb of Yoga is the most widely known for a reason, (in my humble opinion). Physical exercise is healing on so many levels and the physical practice of Yoga is no exception. Many people, including myself have begun the study of the 8 Limbs of Yoga through asana. It then serves as a launching pad, leading yogis to discover and study the remaining 7 limbs.
Pranayama – Breath Control
Pranayama is the fourth Limb of Yoga. Simply put this means breath control. Patanjali explains that it’s essential to have control over your breath as a means to still the mind, enhance prana or life force and establish a greater connection between the body and the mind.
Pratyahara – Sense Withdrawal
Pratyahara is the fifth of the 8 Limbs of Yoga and means withdrawal. More specifically this involves making the conscious effort to draw our awareness away from external distractions and turn awareness to ourselves. The practice of pratyahara provides us with an opportunity to step back and take a look at ourselves.
Dharana – Concentration
Dharana is the sixth Limb of Yoga. This is all about the practice of concentration, or being able to focus the mind on a single point or object. This type of unwavering focus helps develop mental stability and prepares the mind for deeper states of meditation.
Dhyana – Meditation
The seventh Limb of Yoga is Dhyana or meditation. Of the 8 Limbs of Yoga I’d say meditation is the second most well-known, behind the physical asana practice. Meditation is a practice that involves focusing or clearing your mind using a combination of mental and physical techniques. Personally I love the apps Headspace and Calm. I use them interchangeably every single day.
Samadhi – a State of Ecstasy
Samadhi is the eighth and final stage of the 8 Limbs of Yoga. Patanjali describes this as the ultimate state of Yoga or ecstasy. This is where the practitioner experiences a state of oneness and unity. I like to think of this limb of yoga like a state of enlightenment. It’s a feeling that all is right in the world.
Before I let you guys go I want to bring attention to one important thing. All eight of the Limbs of Yoga are equally important. Just as you may complete the physical practice of yoga daily – it’s essential to incorporate the remaining 7 limbs into your day as well – at least that’s what Patanjali suggests.
I really hope this post helped to shine a light on all 8 Limbs of Yoga and on the person who created it all – Patanjali. I truly appreciate each and everyone of you who happened to find your way to my site. Until next time, happy reading and have a beautiful day ahead.
