The eight limbs of yoga are a set of guidelines or principles that provide a framework for living a meaningful and purposeful life. They are described in the ancient text, the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and are considered to be the foundation of yoga practice. The eight limbs of yoga are:
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Yama: These are ethical principles that guide a yogi’s behavior towards others. They include Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy or non-excess), and Aparigraha (non-greed).
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Niyama: These are personal disciplines that guide a yogi’s behavior towards themselves. They include Saucha (cleanliness), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to a higher power).
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Asana: These are physical postures that are practiced to strengthen the body and prepare it for meditation.
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Pranayama: These are breathing exercises that help to control and expand the breath, which is believed to be a key factor in controlling the mind.
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Pratyahara: This is the withdrawal of the senses from external distractions, allowing the mind to focus inwardly.
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Dharana: This is concentration, the ability to focus the mind on a single point or object.
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Dhyana: This is meditation, the state of being fully present and focused on the present moment.
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Samadhi: This is the state of pure consciousness or enlightenment, in which the yogi experiences a sense of oneness with the universe.