Maharishi Patanjali laid out the fundamentals of yogi philosophy and practice in his classic text, the yoga sutras. He describes eight limbs or steps to reach the goal of the practice. ‘Ashta’ means eight and ‘Anga’.
Maharishi Patanjali laid out the fundamentals of yogi philosophy and practice in his classic text, the yoga sutras. He describes eight limbs or steps to reach the goal of the practice.
‘Ashta’ means eight and ‘Anga’ refers to the body part or limbs to clearly state the importance of each limb which is spiritual, mental or physical practice that builds upon one another. He clearly states and defines the purpose with the proper sequence and one can easily achieve the final goal if he/she is dedicated towards each limb.
YAMA (Social Obligations)
It defines the moral, ethical and societal guidelines for the practicing yogi. They are highly relevant and valued guides to lead to a conscious, honest and ethical life. It is considered to be as universal vows and should be followed and practices on all levels (actions, words and thoughts) which are not confined to any place, class or time.
THE FIVE YAMAS
Ahimsa (Non-Violence) – It includes physical, mental and emotional violence towards others and the self. We create violence most often in our reactions to events and others, creating judgement, criticism, anger or irritation. Compassion is the ability to accept events as they are with an open and loving heart. It is a letting go of reacting in a situation which replaces those thoughts and feelings with kindness, acceptance and love. To ‘smile’ is the key to be compassionate.
Satya (Truthfulness) – Walking the path of truth is a hard one, especially while respecting ‘Ahimsa’. It urges us to live and speak our truth at all times, but not by causing harm to another. Living in your truth not only creates respect, honour, and integrity but also provides the vision to clearly see the higher truth of the yogic path.
Asteya (Non-Stealing) – It is best defined as not taking what is not freely given. On a personal level the practice of Asteya entails not committing theft physically and/or not causing or approving of anyone else doing so–in mind, word, or action. On the society level, Asteya would be in opposition to exploitation, social injustice, and oppression. It encourages generosity and overcome lobha (greed).
Brahmacharya (create discipline to attain knowledge) – It states that when we have control over our physical impulses, we can attain knowledge and have increased energy. Simple aim of brahmacharya is to create moderation in all our activities. Practicing moderation is a way of conserving energy, which can be applied for higher spiritual purposes.
Aparigraha (Non-Possession) – It urges us to let go of everything that we do not need, possessing only as much as necessary. The worldly objects cannot be possessed at all, as they are subject to change and will be ultimately destroyed. When we become greedy, we lose the ability to see our true self.
TYPES OF SAMADHI
Sabeejam (Active Samadhi) – Enlightenment stage where the physical body is present but soul is detached from the material world.
Nirbeejam (Inactive Samadhi) – Where the person including the physical body is not present in the material world.
