Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga

While there are many forms of yoga today, they all trace their roots back to the text "Yoga Sutra" and Patanjali's eight limbs of yoga, most commonly associated with ashtanga yoga, described within. These meditation and yoga limbs are the philosophical foundation behind the different yogic practices. Some forms of yoga emphasize one or more limbs over the others, but the basic eight limbs are what is prescribed by yogis as a plan for taming the restlessness of the heart and mind, aligning the spirit, body and emotions for optimal healthful living.

All eight limbs are considered equal, though you may emphasize one or the other limb as you bring your body, mind and spirit into balance.

The Eight Limbs are:

Yama - Morality as expressed towards all others in the Universe
Niyama - Personal, internal ethical observances
Asana -- Physical practices of your body
Pranayama - Controlled breathing exercises affecting your energy force
Pratyahara - Self control of the senses
Dharana - Focus, concentration and inner perception or intuition
Dhyana - Meditation of divine and spiritual concepts
Samadhi - Enlightenment and unification with the holy

The first two limbs are designed to help you understand your intuitive nature and potential.  For example, the first limb emphasizes the belief that all human beings are inherently good, compassionate and benevolent, and the encouragement of such inherent goodness is positive for the entire universe.

The next five limbs are laws instituted for personal betterment. They are meant to be adopted and absorbed into the heart, mind and soul, so as to enhance you in your intention and lifestyle because you not only adhere to the premises, but you actually embody these virtues. The limbs encourage a commitment to purity, cleanliness, contentment, self-control, self-examination and celebration of your unity with the divine.

The final step is Samadhi, or enlightenment, which is sought throughout your entire life. Through practice of the other seven limbs, the eighth is achieved. This state of perfect spiritual, emotional and physical health is the goal of yogic practice.