In the study of yoga, we are provided with 8 limbs that shape the path to enlightenment. To be whole, or to unite is yoga. Through practice, we “yoke.” The limbs are the steps in a life of meaning and purpose. As you learn and grow, these will remain significant points of contemplation. In practice, each limb is prescribed for lending guidance in various forms. Practice is the most important thing. So, what do you need to know?
The 8 Limb Path
Yoga focuses on the internal. The viewpoint is resonant of the words of Deepak Chopra, “As is the microcosm, so is the macrocosm. As is the atom, so is the universe. As is the human mind, so is the cosmic mind.” The 8 limb path focuses on the microcosm first. So within, So without. A Sanskrit is saying, “As the mind, so the person; bondage or liberation are in your own mind” is essential to yoga. Every element along the path is about witnessing what is, and connecting with it.
1. Yamas
First, the ethics of yoga are taken to heart. Virtue is valued. Considered the Universal Moral Code, Yamas are guiding principles at the heart of being. They are about how you interact with the world. The five Yamas are Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha. Respectively, they translate as non-violence, truth, non-stealing, moderation, and non-coveting. Many translations and discussions of each Yama are available for students interested in deepening their understanding. In short, each asks you to believe in the standard and interact with the world from that basis. Do you live by your own ethical standards? Can you share your real understanding with the people that you love and meet? Yamas are the roots of virtue in yogic life.
2. Niyamas
Second, the Niyamas ask you to observe how you interact with yourself. Can you apply universal morals inward? Do you extend to yourself the same truths that you choose to believe of the world? With those questions in mind, the Niyamas present us with the actions of Saucha, Santosha, Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Ishvara Pranidhana. Cleanliness, Contentment, Purification, Self-observation, and devotion are the tangible actions of belief.
3. Asana
Third, is the limb of movement. This aspect of yoga is predominately known in the West. The physical poses of yoga are asana. They are postures that serve the body. Asana is guidelines for positions that provide or produce a specific result. Among its different applications, asanas can be used for meditation, better health, and relaxation. Most are also rooted in allegorical tales or metaphorical lessons from the traditional lineages. Asana has physical, mental, emotional, organ-specific, and energetic benefits, etc., depending on the pose.
4. Pranayama
Next, comes the practice of breath. With thought, honor, and appreciation, yogis manipulate the breath for different means. As a fundamental practice, breath control is for harassing the life-force energy. Through the breath, we discover subtle connections of the mind and body for direction and expansion. While it can be used in conjunction with, or during, asana, breathwork is its own detailed practice.
5. Pratyahara
At this time, the path of yoga calls for the withdrawal of senses. The control of the senses. The fifth limb of yoga asks you to take time away from all external influences and expressions. By withdrawing and making time to observe inner impressions, you are creating space for new positive patterns. This is a process of filtering external input. We filter so that we do not become confused within.
6. Dharana
Now, the path to enlightenment is less a matter of effort and more a matter of discipline. This is the cultivation of immovable concentration. Routine practice is the discipline of the last three limbs. As the 6th limb of yoga, Dharana is the practice of spending time in concentration. This is the mind work of yoga. It is an area of one-pointed concentration practice.
7. Dhyana
Previously, we go to find center through focus. Dhyana is about connection. It is a meditation on the divine. Developing this connected relationship is the 7th limb and happens as an extension of mastering one-pointed focus. The idea is that through work on Dharana, the meditative state of Dhyana will surely arrive. We are traveling toward genuine connection. For now, we practice devotedly.
8. Samadhi
Last, we find that all efforts lead to unification. Destination at absolute bliss. The final limb of yoga is Samadhi or Unification. Explore a heightened state of oneness. An intense concentration and connection leads to full absorption and unification. This is the ultimate yogic state, the goal or final point of unity with all. Full enlightenment.
It Should Be Noted
To be clear, each limb plays an integral role in the yogic path. There is none more, or less, important than the others. This path is a cornerstone of yoga. In the beginning, you learn a lot. Over time, you practice, apply, and practice some more. Keep up the excellent work yogis. For today, Reflect Daily, and see where you end up.