The Complete Path of Yoga
When most people think of yoga, they think of poses. But asana is just one of eight limbs described in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, written some 2,000 years ago.
For a deeper dive into yoga's philosophical tradition, explore our guide to the Bhagavad Gita for modern practitioners.
The Eight Limbs
1. Yama — Ethical Restraints
Five guidelines for how we treat others: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (moderation), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness).
2. Niyama — Personal Observances
Self-discipline and inner work: Saucha (cleanliness), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender).
3. Asana — Physical Posture
The poses we practise in class. Patanjali devotes only three sutras out of 196 to asana.
4. Pranayama — Breath Control
Conscious breathing practices that regulate the body's vital energy.
5. Pratyahara — Withdrawal of the Senses
Turning attention inward.
6. Dharana — Concentration
Focused attention on a single point.
7. Dhyana — Meditation
When concentration becomes unbroken flow. Explore chakra meditation as one approach.
8. Samadhi — Bliss
A state of complete absorption and unity.
How the Limbs Work Together
The eight limbs aren't a ladder to climb sequentially. They're more like spokes of a wheel — each supporting the others.
Your yoga practice already touches several limbs simultaneously: Asana when you move, Pranayama when you breathe, Dharana when you focus, Ahimsa when you're kind to yourself.
Yoga is so much more than poses. Discover the depth of practice at Yoga Me Yoga You.
