The Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga
These 8 limbs are:
Yamas - The Yamas or restraints (Don'ts) are divided into five moral injunctions, aimed at destroying the lower nature. They should all be practiced and developed by the letter but also more importantly in the spirit. They should all be practiced in word, thought and deed. Ahimsa or non-violence Satyam or truthfulness Brahmacharya or moderation in all things (control of all senses). Also refers to celibacy Asteya or non-stealing Aparigraha or non-covetousness Niyamas - The Niyamas or observances (Do's) are also divided into five and complete the ethical precepts started with the Yama.. These qualities are: Saucha or purity - this internal and external cleanliness. Santosha or contentment Tapas or austerity Swadhyaya or study of the sacred texts Ishwara Pranidhana which is constantly living with an awareness of the divine Presence (surrender to God's Will) Asanas - Postures Pranayama regulation or control of the breath. Asanas and Pranayama form the sub-division of Raja Yoga known as Hatha-Yoga Pratyahara - withdrawal of the senses in order to still the mind. Dharana - concentration. The last 3 steps constitute the internal practice of Raja Yoga. When Dharana is achieved, it leads to the next step: Dhyyana- meditation is that state of pure thought and absorption in the object of meditation. There is still duality in Dhyana. When mastered Dhyana leads to the last step: Samadhi - the super conscious state. In Samadhi non-duality or oneness is experienced. This is the deepest and highest state of consciousness where body and mind have been transcended and the Yogi is one with the Self or God.
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Copyright © 2007 Baan Zen Koh Chang |