The 8 Limbs of Yoga

Yoga Resources ~ The 8 Limbs of Yoga

The Eight Limbs of Yoga are a series of steps which purify the body and mind, ultimately leading the yogi to enlightenment. These eight steps act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. They serve as a prescription for moral and ethical conduct and self-discipline; they direct attention toward one's health; and they help us to acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature.

  1. Yamas – guidelines for how we act with the outer world, external restraints
    • Ahimsa - non-violence toward yourself or others
    • Satya - truthfulness
    • Brahmacharya - moderation in all things or celibacy
    • Asteya - non-stealing
    • Aparigraha -non-covetousness

  2. Niyamas – internal guidelines
    • Saucha - internal and external cleanliness, purity
    • Santosha - contentment
    • Tapas - austerity
    • Swadhyaya - study of the sacred texts
    • Ishwara Pranidhana - living with an awareness of the divine

  3. Asanas – postures


  4. Pranayama - regulation or control of the breath


  5. Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses in order to still the mind


  6. Dharana - concentration


  7. Dhyana - meditation


  8. Samadhi - the superconscious state. In Samadhi non-duality or oneness is experienced

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