Eminent Hindu yoga guru Maharshi Patanjali compiled the “Yoga Sutra” which lays down a progressive series of steps or disciplines. While the physical part of yoga is quite significant, it is only one of the eight steps of yoga practice. Individual and social compatibility, perfect physical health, mental peace, eternal joy and spiritual enlightenment can be experienced by following these eight steps.
These are defined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali:
- Yama- for interactions with others.
- Niyama- for interactions with self.
- Asana- postures.
- Pranayam- conservation and control of energy.
- Pratyahar- sensory inhibition.
- Dharna- concentration
- Dhyana- meditation
- Samadhi- trance consciousness.
Let us proceed step by step to perceive this art and science of life.
Yama
Yama has different meanings depending on the context. In yoga, this is used to signify self-control and social discipline. Yoga sutras describe five different Yama. They define behavior patterns or relationships between an individual and the outside world.
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): This refers to refraining from cruelty to anyone in any way. It means kindness, friendliness and thoughtful consideration of other people and things. It is also about not hurting anyone by speech, acts and thoughts.
Satya (Truthfulness): The word Satya, literally, means speaking the truth. But we should always be aware of what we are saying, how we are saying it and whether this could affect others. Our scriptures advise us to speak the truth which is pleasant. Do not speak unpleasant truths and do not lie, even if the lies are pleasing.
Asteya (Non Stealing): “Do not take which is not ours”, says the third Yama. Even the thought of claiming things and credit which we have not earned is a sinful attitude.
Brahmacharya (Control of Senses): The term is commonly used in the context of sexual activity but the fourth Yama impresses upon control over all senses of perception and desires. The yoga practitioner should inspire his senses to move towards good and pious acts, ensuring that the senses are clean.
Aparigraha (Non- Hoarding): Take only what is necessary and do not take advantage of situations. Aparigraha results in fulfillment and the feeling of being content with what we have.
Attainments of Yama:
Yoga Sutra describes the achievements of Yama:
- Ahimsa eliminates malice and enmity.
- Strict adherence to the path of truth empowers the practitioner to turn words into reality.
- Not stealing makes the practitioner prosperous and recipient of all the jewels of the world.
- Inner strength is boosted by following Brahamacharya.
- Adherence to Aparigraha awakens the power to know about karmas of previous incarnations.
These are defined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali:
- Yama- for interactions with others.
- Niyama- for interactions with self.
- Asana- postures.
- Pranayam- conservation and control of energy.
- Pratyahar- sensory inhibition.
- Dharna- concentration
- Dhyana- meditation
- Samadhi- trance consciousness.
Let us proceed step by step to perceive this art and science of life.
Yama
Yama has different meanings depending on the context. In yoga, this is used to signify self-control and social discipline. Yoga sutras describe five different Yama. They define behavior patterns or relationships between an individual and the outside world.
Ahimsa (Non-Violence): This refers to refraining from cruelty to anyone in any way. It means kindness, friendliness and thoughtful consideration of other people and things. It is also about not hurting anyone by speech, acts and thoughts.
Satya (Truthfulness): The word Satya, literally, means speaking the truth. But we should always be aware of what we are saying, how we are saying it and whether this could affect others. Our scriptures advise us to speak the truth which is pleasant. Do not speak unpleasant truths and do not lie, even if the lies are pleasing.
Asteya (Non Stealing): “Do not take which is not ours”, says the third Yama. Even the thought of claiming things and credit which we have not earned is a sinful attitude.
Brahmacharya (Control of Senses): The term is commonly used in the context of sexual activity but the fourth Yama impresses upon control over all senses of perception and desires. The yoga practitioner should inspire his senses to move towards good and pious acts, ensuring that the senses are clean.
Aparigraha (Non- Hoarding): Take only what is necessary and do not take advantage of situations. Aparigraha results in fulfillment and the feeling of being content with what we have.
Attainments of Yama:
Yoga Sutra describes the achievements of Yama:
- Ahimsa eliminates malice and enmity.
- Strict adherence to the path of truth empowers the practitioner to turn words into reality.
- Not stealing makes the practitioner prosperous and recipient of all the jewels of the world.
- Inner strength is boosted by following Brahamacharya.
- Adherence to Aparigraha awakens the power to know about karmas of previous incarnations.
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