What Does Ashtanga Mean in Patanjali's Yoga Sutra? Are the Eight Limbs of Yoga the Same as Raja Yoga?

In the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali, ashtanga means "eight limbs." It refers to the eight-fold path of yoga, which is a system of practices and principles that lead to spiritual liberation. The eight limbs of yoga are:

  • Yamas (ethical principles)
  • Niyamas (personal observances)
  • Asana (physical postures)
  • Pranayama (breath control)
  • Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses)
  • Dharana (concentration)
  • Dhyana (meditation)
  • Samadhi (spiritual enlightenment)

Are the Eight Limbs of Yoga the Same as Raja Yoga?

The eight limbs of yoga are derived from the Raja Yoga tradition, which is one of the four main paths of yoga. Raja Yoga focuses on the development of the mind and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment through meditation. As such, the eight limbs of yoga can be considered as a systematic approach to the practice of Raja Yoga.

FAQs

  • What is ashtanga in yoga? Ashtanga means "eight limbs" and refers to the eight-fold path of yoga.
  • What are the eight limbs of yoga? The eight limbs are: yamas, niyamas, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi.
  • Are the eight limbs of yoga the same as Raja Yoga? The eight limbs of yoga are derived from the Raja Yoga tradition.
  • What are the yamas? The yamas are ethical principles that include non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, continence, and non-possessiveness.
  • What are the niyamas? The niyamas are personal observances that include purity, contentment, austerity, self-study, and surrender to God.

Hot Sale Yoga Items

  • Alo Yoga Warrior Mat
  • Manduka PRO Yoga Mat
  • Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant
  • Nike Dri-FIT Yoga Top
  • Gaiam Yoga Block

Pre:How much time does it take to lose weight doing yoga
Next:What are chair yoga exercises and how can they help reduce belly fat

^