This page is part of the Web site and details the eight limbs of the
Raja Yoga system, one of the four main paths of Yoga.
The Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga
Compiled by the Sage Patanjali Maharishi in the Yoga Sutras, the Eight
Limbs are a progressive series of steps or disciplines which purify
the body and mind, ultimately leading the yogi to enlightenment. These
8 limbs are:
- Yamas - The Yamas or restraints (Don'ts) are divided
into five moral injuctions, aimed at destroying the lower nature. They
should all be practiced and developped by the letter but also more importantly
in the spirit. They should all be practiced in word, thought and deed.
- Ahimsa or non-violence
- Satyam or truthfulness
- Brahmacharya or moderation in all things (control
of all senses). Also refers to celibacy
- Asteya or non-stealing
- Aparigraha or non-covetousness
Niyamas - The Niyamas or observances (Do's) are
also divided into five and complete the ethical precepts started with
the Yama.. These qualities are:
- Saucha or purity - this internal and external
cleanliness.
- Santosha or contentment
- Tapas or austerity
- Swadhyaya or study of the sacred texts
- Ishwara Pranidhana which is constantly living
with an awareness of the divine Presence (surrender to God's Will)
Asanas - Postures
Pranayama - regulation or control of the breath.
Asanas and Pranayama form the sub-division of Raja Yoga known as Hatha-Yoga
Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses in order to
still the mind.
Dharana - concentration. The last 3 steps constitute
the internal practice of Raja Yoga. When Dharana is achieved, it leads
to the next step:
Dhyana - meditation is that state of pure thought
and absorption in the object of meditation. There is still duality in
Dhyana. When mastered Dhyana leads to the last step:
Samadhi - the superconscious state. In Samadhi non-duality
or oneness is experienced. This is the deepest and highest state of
consciousness where body and mind have been transcended and the Yogi
is one with the Self or God
