What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga Yoga- Patanjali Yoga Sutra
The Ancient science of yoga is also defined by a philosopher and yogi, Patanjali. The Patanjali Yoga sutras is the oldest known text of yoga and explains an 8 limb (ashtanga) path to samadhi (enlightenment). The word “Yoga” is defined in this book with two rooted meanings:
The meaning of Yoga derived from Yuj-yujjati is ‘anchoring’ or ‘integration’ of the whole human personality in terms of his ‘body’, ‘mind’ and ‘soul’.
The meaning of Yoga derived from Yuj-samadhav is ‘Samadhi’ or deep concentration.
The basic philosophy of the Patanjali Ashtanga 8 limb theory is that all things on earth are made from two enternal metaphysical meanings, purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (nature). The purpose of yoga is therefore for one self to realised the purusha within himself and become one with consciousness to find peace within ones mind, body and soul. The end result is known as ‘samadhi’ or ‘englightenment’.
Patanjali has laid out through the 8 limbs how one can reach samadhi as follows:
Yama- Social attitudes
Niyama- personal discipline
Asana- physical postures
Pranayama- breath control and expansion
Pratyahara- sense withdrawal and control
Dharana- concentration on one object
Dhyann- meditation
Samadhi- enlightened state
These 8 limbs are followed intensely in the Ashtanga Vinyasa tradition. The idea is to begin mastering each step one by one and with devotion to your daily practice this will happen naturally. For a deeper understanding it is recomended to read the Patanjali Yoga Sutra to expand your knowledge and deepen your practice.
