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The Eight Limbs of Yoga

Writer's picture: BrookeBrooke

Yoga is a holistic practice that not only helps in achieving physical fitness but also helps in achieving mental, emotional, and spiritual balance. The eight limbs of yoga form the basis of traditional yoga practice, which originated in ancient India. These limbs are not just about physical postures or asanas, but they also cover various aspects of life, including ethical and moral values, self-discipline, concentration, and meditation.


The eight limbs of yoga, as described by the ancient sage Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras, are:


  1. Yama: The first limb of yoga is Yama, which refers to ethical standards or moral values. It includes five principles: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possessiveness). Practicing Yama helps in building a positive relationship with oneself and others.

  2. Niyama: The second limb of yoga is Niyama, which refers to self-discipline and spiritual observances. It includes five principles: Saucha (cleanliness), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to a higher power). Practicing Niyama helps in developing a strong sense of self-awareness and self-control.

  3. Asana: The third limb of yoga is Asana, which refers to physical postures or positions. Practicing Asana helps in achieving physical fitness, flexibility, strength, and balance. It also helps in improving concentration and reducing stress.

  4. Pranayama: The fourth limb of yoga is Pranayama, which refers to breath control. Practicing Pranayama helps in regulating the breath, increases the oxygen supply to the body, and calms the mind. It also helps in improving overall health and well-being.

  5. Pratyahara: The fifth limb of yoga is Pratyahara, which refers to the withdrawal of the senses from external stimuli. Practicing Pratyahara helps in developing inner awareness and concentration, and it prepares the mind for meditation.

  6. Dharana: The sixth limb of yoga is Dharana, which refers to concentration. Practicing Dharana helps in focusing the mind on a single point, such as a mantra or an object. It helps in improving mental clarity and reducing distractions.

  7. Dhyana: The seventh limb of yoga is Dhyana, which refers to meditation. Practicing Dhyana helps in experiencing a state of deep peace and tranquility. It also helps in developing a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us.

  8. Samadhi: The eighth and final limb of yoga is Samadhi, which refers to a state of pure consciousness or enlightenment. Practicing Samadhi helps in experiencing a profound sense of connection with the universe and realizing one's true nature.

In conclusion, the eight limbs of yoga are a comprehensive approach to achieving physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual balance. By practicing these limbs, one can develop a deeper understanding of oneself and the world, and experience a profound sense of inner peace and harmony.


Watch for future courses from Seeking Moksha that explore the Eight Limbs of Yoga and their connection to inner peace.

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