The Eight Limbs of Yoga
Yoga is not merely an exercise to achieve holistic development; it is a discipline that aims to transform one into greater being through physical, mental and emotional cleansing. Because of this nature, yoga has its own set of teachings that have to be followed by its disciples, and this is called the “eight-limbed” path.
The eight limbs of yoga focus on man’s total transparency and open the road towards the ultimate reality. These eight limbs include:
- Yama- universal morality, which pertains to one’s realization and acceptance of the truth.
- Niyama- personal observances, or maintaining one’s balance of attitudes
- Asanas- meanwhile work on proper body positions and postures
- Pranayama- breathing, or the control of air inside the body system
- Pratyahara- is the control and management of the five senses
- Dharana- the development of one’s focus and concentration
- Dhayana- dedication to the Divine or meditation
- Samadhi- being one with the Divine
The first two limbs work on man’s internal balance of attitudes, and they aim to improve his inner being and behavior. By starting with the inner self, man’s attitudes are expected to reflect on his actions and the ways he work with other people.
The third and fourth limbs meanwhile focus on the physical aspects of the human body, beginning with breathing and eventually with movements and positions. By mastering the breathing and posture limbs, the body will be able to achieve physical balance, good health and longevity.
Lastly, the other four limbs aim at spiritual enlightenment. Through meditation and getting to know with your inner self, it is believed that you can achieve happiness and reach the Divine, and by then you will be complete and step into a greater, more powerful realm, thus making you higher than that of a normal human being.
