1. Yamas tell us how to interact with the World, they are the roots of the tree because they connect us to others and everything outside ourselves. Without strong roots, a tree, no matter how strong in other respects, will fall.

2. Niyamas tell us how to interact with ourselves, they are the trunk of the tree, providing stability.

3. Asana are postures. Loosely translated asana means comfortable and stable seat. Feeling comfortable within the physical body. The main purpose of asana is to prepare the physical body for long periods of meditation. Thus asana represents the branches of our tree, the baby steps toward transformation, which happens through meditation.

4. Pranayama refers to breathing techniques and expansion of life-force energy; these form the bridge between our minds and our bodies. Pranayama are the leaves of our tree absorbing energy to nourish us.

5. Pratyahara is often translated as sense withdrawal. In a world of constant stimulation, distraction, and mental chatter, pratyahara represents an intentional withdrawing from the outside world, and with enough practice, our own racing thoughts. Pratyahara is the bark of our tree, protecting us from external distractions and diversions.

6. Dharana loosely translated as concentration or focus, is the life giving sap of our tree because where our attention goes, our energy flows, and for good health, energy must flow freely to where it is needed.

7. Dhyana or meditation, not the attempt to meditate but the state of meditation, forms the flower of the tree. It is the culmination of the preceding limbs.

8. Samadhi, or the state of true bliss, forms the fruit of our tree, the seeds from which transformation and new life ultimately flourish.