Yoga is more than Asanas (physical poses). Patanjali, an ancient sage, mystic and philosopher in India, who is considered the "father of modern yoga", may have authored the Yoga Sutras. They outline a philosophy about how we can navigate life in a spiritually-attuned way. According to this work, which has become an important part of yogic tradition, there is an "eight-fold path" leading to liberation or , otherwise known as Ashtanga. (‘ashta’ means ‘eight’ and ‘anga’ means ‘limb’).
So, what are the 8 limbs?
1. YAMA – Restraints, moral disciplines or moral vows
2. NIYAMA – Positive duties or observances
3. ASANA – Posture
4. PRANAYAMA – Breathing Techniques
5. PRATYAHARA – Sense withdrawal
6. DHARANA – Focused Concentration
7. DHYANA – Meditative Absorption
8. SAMADHI – Bliss or Enlightenment
You'll notice that when people think of yoga, its only Asana. Also, the pose described in the yoga Sutras is actually just "seat". Meaning, sitting still, and Patanjali advises that Asana should be practiced with "steady comfort" or "steady joy". With that aim in mind, we are not required or even encouraged to slide into the splits or hold a handstand, to practice the 3rd limb of yoga.
As a new yoga teacher, I am learning to honor the tradition of yoga by including more than simply the Asanas in my classes. Yoga is not a workout. It is a way of understanding and perceiving life, and a way of acting that transcends time on the mat bending and stretching. So far I have learned more about the Yama and Niyama, and Pranayama. I look forward to learning and including more yoga in my life.
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