In this comprehensive guide, we will explore yoga's foundations, its definition, its central ethos as a lifestyle, the Eight-limbed Path of practice, and how to apply these ancient practices in our modern lives.
Yoga is a lifestyle of practice, observation, discipline, and awareness that has transcended centuries and traversed cultures. The foundation of yoga goes far beyond a physical exercise practice. It is a living philosophy that encompasses mind, body, and spirit.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore yoga's foundations, its definition, its central ethos as a lifestyle, the Eight-limbed Path of practice, and how to apply these ancient practices in our modern lives.
Modern Yoga has often been misconstrued as a series of physical postures. In truth, Yoga is far more than that. At its core, yoga is a holistic system that seeks to unite the individual's consciousness with the universal consciousness.
The meaning of the word "yoga" is derived from the Sanskrit word "yuj," which means "to yoke" or "to unite." To practice yoga, then, is to engage in practices that seek to establish a union of the mind, body, and spirit. In yogic philosophy, there is no division between the individual and cosmic divine selves.
Yoga offers a profound philosophy for living a meaningful and harmonious life. At its heart, yoga encourages self-awareness, mindfulness, and inner transformation. Its central ethos revolves around what is known as The Eight-Limbed Path.
The Eight-Limbed Path is first outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, an ancient text providing a systematic approach to applying the philosophy of yoga. The Eight-Limbed Path outlines eight steps to attain spiritual realization and self-mastery:
The first of the eight limbs begins with an ethical code; these are the five principles of morality: Ahimsa (compassion or non-harm), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (truthfulness), Brahmacharya (moderation), Aparigraha (acceptance).
The second limb refers to personal observances of how we interact with ourselves and with others. These are Saucha (purity), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (self-discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender).
What we are familiar with in the West is physical postures for which the intention is to prepare the body for meditation.
Breath awareness and control techniques to regulate life force energy.
Withdrawal of the senses from external distractions.
Concentration focusing the mind on a single point.
Meditation, achieving a state of sustained concentration.
Union with the divine, a state of profound spiritual realization. The ultimate goal of yoga.
These Eight Limbed Path serve as foundational principles for ethical and virtuous living, allowing space for deep inner reflection and realization. Through the path of yoga, practitioners experience inner transformation through a more harmonious relationship with themselves and the world around them.
The eight limbs of yoga could be the foundation of yogic philosophy and lifestyle. This way of being has been applied over thousands of years as it has evolved from its roots in ancient India. Yoga has been influenced by different cultures, people, and traditions as much as its net has grown wider, and there are four main branches of yogic lifestyle that a practitioner may explore.
The yoga of selfless action, emphasizing doing one's duty without attachment to the results.
The yoga of devotion involving surrender to a higher power through prayers, singing, and ritual.
The yoga of knowledge, focusing on self-inquiry, study of ancient text, and understanding the nature of the self.
The yoga of physical postures and breath control, often what we think of as yoga in the West.
Modern yoga, as we know it today, is a blend of these various branches and philosophies. Each practitioner may find themselves drawn to a different path throughout their journey. Each branch of yoga is a means to explore the divine connection with self and spirit.
Integrating a yogic lifestyle can seem daunting in the modern world, yet the benefits are immense. We recommend starting with simple daily practices of awareness that give space and time for you to find moments of connection to self. Here are some of the ways we apply these ancient practices in our contemporary lives:
We recommend establishing a consistent physical practice; this doesn’t need to look like hours spent on the mat every day but intentionally take the time to connect mind, body, and breath within your practice. Practicing physical postures regularly helps maintain flexibility, strength, and balance in both mind and body.
Pranayama techniques are a useful way to manage day-to-day stress, improve focus, and establish a connection to self. To find out more about the practices and benefits of pranayama, check out our blog.
Regular meditation is one of our most intimate tools of self-awareness; spending 10 - 15 minutes each day in observation of the inner network of the mind develops a deep and truthful knowledge of the self. This foundation of understanding over time will seamlessly echo into every other aspect of life.
The simple technique of mindful living can have profound effects on creating a presence in day-to-day activities. The principles of mindfulness are to stop, observe, accept, and breathe. If you’re someone who struggles with slowing down, explore practices like mindful eating and mindful walking. Incorporating mindfulness meditation into your daily routine sows the seed for emotional regulation and fosters a deep connection to yourself and the world around you.
Explore how you can embrace the Yamas and Niyamas in your relationships, work, daily choices, and interactions with the world.
Become a curious observer of your thoughts, patterns, and actions. Compassionate reflection upon those can foster deep personal growth.
Expand your community to connect with like-minded individuals who inspire you and help you grow. Join yoga classes, meditation groups, and volunteering roles. You will likely find a sense of belonging and shared spiritual growth in these spaces.
The beauty of yoga as a living system is that it recognizes that not every person is the same. It is not a one-size-fits-all practice. The foundation of yoga is in understanding each person's individuality and offering a toolkit of practices that support the journey of self-discovery and transformation.
By embracing this central ethos and applying its principles in our modern lives, we can experience the profound benefits of yoga on our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Yoga is not a destination but a lifelong path of unity, balance, and inner peace.
“TELL ME, WHAT IS IT YOU PLAN TO DO WITH YOUR
ONE WILD AND PRECIOUS LIFE?”
- Mary Oliver
