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The definition of "yoga and the eight limbs of yoga"

"The definition of yoga and the eight limbs of yoga"


"The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, written by the ancient Indian sage Patanjali, is a seminal text in the field of yoga and a key source of understanding the philosophy of yoga. The text is a collection of 196 sutras or aphorisms that provide a comprehensive guide to the practice and philosophy of yoga. One of the main teachings of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali is the definition of yoga and the eight limbs of yoga. In this article, we will dive deep into the meaning and significance of the definition of yoga and the eight limbs of yoga as outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

I. The Definition of Yoga

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali defines yoga as "the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind" (YS 1.2). This definition encompasses the ultimate goal of yoga, which is to achieve inner peace and liberation. The fluctuations of the mind refer to the constant stream of thoughts, emotions, and sensations that occupy the mind and create a sense of inner turmoil. Yoga aims to still these fluctuations and bring about a state of inner calm and stability, known as samadhi.

II. The Eight Limbs of Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga)

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali lays out the eight limbs of yoga, known as Ashtanga Yoga, which include:

  1. Ethical disciplines (yama and niyama): The text lays out five ethical disciplines (yama) which are non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy and non-possessiveness, and five personal disciplines (niyama) which are cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline, self-study and surrender to a higher power. These ethical guidelines are considered essential for the cultivation of a pure and stable mind, which is necessary for the practice of yoga.

  2. Physical postures (asana): Yoga involves physical postures that help to develop strength, flexibility, and balance, and prepare the body for meditation. The postures are also believed to purify the body and prepare it for spiritual progress.

  3. Breath control (pranayama): Breath control is an essential aspect of yoga and is believed to help control the mind and emotions, and purify the body.

  4. Sense withdrawal (pratyahara): Sense withdrawal involves controlling the senses and turning the attention inward, which helps to prepare the mind for meditation.

  5. Concentration (dharana): Concentration is the practice of focusing the mind on a single object, which helps to develop mental clarity and focus.

  6. Meditation (dhyana): Meditation is the practice of stilling the mind and attaining inner peace.

  7. Samadhi or enlightenment: Samadhi is the ultimate goal of yoga and is described as the state of being absorbed in the object of meditation.

In conclusion,

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali provides a comprehensive guide to the practice and philosophy of yoga through its definition of yoga, the eight limbs of yoga and the importance of ethical conduct in the practice of yoga. It's teachings on inner peace, inner wisdom, and ethical conduct are still relevant today and can provide guidance for individuals seeking to improve their physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

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