International Yoga Day 2024: All About Ashtang Yoga

Ashtanga yoga, or the eight-limbs yoga, is Maharshi Patanjali's version of classical yoga, as set out in his Yoga Sutras.

It is defined that the eight limbs are yamas, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi.

Yama, the restraints, guide harmonious living through principles like non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, abstinence, and non-possessiveness.

Niyama focuses on positive duties towards ourselves, fostering cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender to a higher power.

Asanas are essential for meditation, but yoga is more than just physical postures. It's like using an aeroplane as a bus just because it has wheels.

Pranayama, the lengthening of the breath, clears energy pathways and channels energy to higher centres within us.

Pratyahara turns our focus inward and marks the end of the outer aspects of yoga.

Dharana, which is contemplation, leads to Dhyana, or meditation, where we experience effortlessness and expanded awareness.

Dhyana, or meditation, goes beyond mere concentration. While it may bring relaxation and stress reduction, its true purpose is transformative.

Samadhi is a state of profound enlightenment and unity with the superconscious.

Inputs By: Oshin Satija, Health & Wellness Coach, Yoga Expert and Corporate Yoga Trainer