The methodology for the practice of traditional yoga is call ed the eight-fold path or the eight limbs of yoga. It is mainly the third limb of yoga, namely the practice of asanas (postures) that have become popular amongst the masses. Most people associate yoga only with the exercises of the asanas, but it is in reality much more than that. It is the endeavor of the Ananda Yogashram Trust to make a multi pronged effort to achieve optimum health at all levels of existence. |
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| The ultimate aim of Yoga is to reach "Kaivalya" (freedom). This is the experience of once innermost being or "soul" (the purusa). When this level of awareness is achieved, one becomes free of the chains of cause and effect (Karma), which binds us to continual reincarnation. |
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| Gyana marg is the path of knowledge, Karma marg is the path of Selfless Work, Bhakti Marg is the path of devotion, Yoga Marg is the path of control of mind and senses. The firm control of the senses is called Yoga as stated in the Kath Upanishad. These four fold paths lead to the same goal of self-realization. |
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| A methodology for the practice of traditional yoga is called the 'eight fold path' or the 'eight limbs of Yoga'. There are 8 disciplines of Yoga, which must be practised and refined in order to perceive the true self the ultimate goal of Yoga. The Ashtanga Yoga is the most authoritative treatise on how to practice yoga. The eight limbs are elucidated as follows: |
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| First Limb |
Yama |
Principles of right relationship to the world and universal ethics, non- violence, non harming, awareness and gentleness in action, truthfulness, non-stealing. the terminology used is Satya, Asteya, Brahmcharya, and Aparigraha. |
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| Second Limb |
Niyama |
Niyama Principles of right relationship with the Self, disciplines observances. This is explained via Shauch purity of body, cleanliness good food and health habits, Santosh a state of mind that is not dependant on any outer feedback or event, Tapas spiritual fire the willingness and discipline to do what ever is necessary to reach the defined goal, Swadhyaya the art of self education, Ishwara - Pranidhana - Devotion of God. |
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| Third Limb |
Asana |
Practice of postures, which help develop stability in the body. |
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| Fourth Limb |
Pranayama |
Pranayama is the control and regulation of breathing. Pranayama has a soothing and balancing effect on the nervous system. And consists of different breathing exercises. |
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| Fifth Limb |
Pratyahara |
The art of withdrawing the attention of the five senses from the out side world to the inner world. Becoming one with the inner experience. |
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| Sixth Limb |
Dharma |
The art of focus and concentration. One pointedness that leads to meditation. |
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| Seventh Limb |
Dhayana |
Deep meditation Connectedness with all things. Dhayana makes one forget the body and the world. |
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| Eighth Limb |
Samadhi |
Samadhi a state of pure consciousness where the self is one with the Atman. |
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| Tradition has it that is essential to learn yoga from an accomplished Guru . |
