The 8 Limbs of Classical Yoga-

Patanjali, compiled the yoga sutras, an important collection of quotes and sayings regarding yoga practice. Patanjali’s Yoga practice involves inner contemplation, meditation, ethics, metaphysics and the idea of a common soul. He presented the 8 Limbs of Classical yoga as the following:
 

Yama

Our attitudes towards the environment or outside of us given in 5 specific precepts (basic guidelines for living a life of personal fulfillment, benefiting the society).  Yamas are Guidelines for how we interact with the outer world.  Things that guides our social interactions and relationships with those around us.

  • Ahimsa (Non-injury/violence) Violence comes from fear, anger, restlessness and selfishness.  One’s own thoughts can be as detrimental as words or weapons. Be loving to all living creatures in your thoughts, words and deeds. Cultivate a considerate attitude, loving kindness, compassion, patience and self-love.
  • Satya (Truthfulness) Right Communication. Truthfulness in speech, though, and works. Practice honesty with an awareness of how it will affect others. Truthfulness begins with you. Gandhi practiced this yama it was the basis of his yoga practice.   Patanjali said one who lives from a place of truthfulness encourages the growth of intuition. Own your feelings, be assertive, be forgiving and non-judgmental.
  • Asteya (Non-stealing) Practice trustworthiness and not taking advantage of others. This includes not coveting what others have, not just things but ideas and psychological factors as well, such as taking away someone’s integrity by gossiping about them. Practice a sense of completeness, self-sufficiency.  Let go of cravings.
  • Brahmacharya (Divine Conduct) “Don’t overindulge.” Try to control the sense pleasures. Thoughtfully move toward the essential, seeking highest truths even in a sexual relationship. A Brahmacharya/Brahmacharini is someone who takes a vow of celibacy among other responsibilities. Someone who is married or in a committed relationship can observe this yama by being loyal to their partner. The karma that is created from promiscuity is not worth the short term pleasure. Not having a 2nd or 3rd piece of cake is also a way to practice this yama. This is not about repression but about moderation.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness/non-exploitation) Simplicity! Take only what is necessary. Fulfill your needs rather than your wants. Strive for material simplicity. The acquisition of material possessions that will be of no use to you after you have passed on is a form of attachment; however this yama is the practice of detachment, not rejection.
 

Niyama

Our attitudes towards ourselves, also in 5 precepts (more internal, self-discipline, spiritual observances.)  – Niyamas are guidelines for how we interact with ourselves internally.  This is the way we harness the power from our yoga practice and our fostering of the yamas.  The Niyamas assist us with creating a positive environment in which to blossom.

  1. Saucha (Purity) Practice physical cleanliness good health habits, a clean and orderly environment, good food choices, and mindfulness. Enjoy a simple and pure diet as much as possible. Though not all yogi’s are vegetarians, a vegetarian diet is a helpful choice in keeping the body and mind healthy & light, and also is best for the planet. Tensions can pollute our minds, hearts, and bodies, therefore it is essential to practice a form of relaxation. Practicing asanas and breath meditation are cleansing and a form of this niyama.
  2. Santosa (Contentment) This yama is referring to acceptance of life as it is and making the best out of it.   Be honest with where you are and who you are. Trusting that the changes you need to make in your life will result from your inner, spiritual practice. Opening to a healthy balance of both grace and effort is a key to transformation.
  3. Tapas (Discipline, heat) This is the willingness to do what is necessary to reach the goal with discipline.  Practice determination to pursue daily practices with enthusiasm for the practice and the path The growth or merit attained from making a sacrifice to choose spiritual practice over being unconscious is worth more than words can say. Tapas means heat/fire.  Go thru the fire and accept it – invite it in.  This is where transformation takes place.  Give yourself fully to your dharma (your life’s mission).  Let the fire burn the ego away.
  4. Svadhyaya (Self-Study) We need to understand who we really are. We are not our thoughts, emotions, our body or the image we have created of ourselves. We all have a place inside of ourselves that houses pure consciousness. All of the paths of yoga are ways to practice this niyama, including studying ancient texts, and any meditative practices. We need to practice reflection, meditation and cultivating a desire to know the truth – whatever that truth is.
  5. Ishwara-pranidhana (Remembrance) Constantly reflecting on the divinity that exists within yourself.  Practice faith, dedication, and patience to transcend the ego.  Offer your work and devotion to a higher cause.  Keep a deep sense of swelf-awareness  as you move along your path.  Practice gratitude for all that life has to offer, for both the obvious and the hidden blessings.

Asana

The Physical Practice.

Pranayama

Regulation of Prana or Vital Force.

Pratyahara

The restraint of our senses.

Dharana

Concentration.

Dhyana

Meditation

Samdhi

Integration/Merging with "The Self."