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patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga: A Brief Introduction

27/2/2015

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It helps to think of these 8 limbs as the tree of yoga:
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The Tree of Yoga

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.
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Yoga: More Than Asana

10/2/2015

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These days when someone says the word “yoga”, most people think of asanas (yoga postures). They think of exercise classes that stretch the body and maybe incorporate some specific breathing practices. But there is SO MUCH MORE than this “asana thing". Asanas are but one of the eight limbs of the 'tree of yoga' as described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. A tiny part of a comprehensive philosophy and science of life.



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Yamas: Ahimsa in Daily Life

8/2/2015

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Norman, the Eco Warrior, shows us how to make a few tiny changes that have a big impact to our planet.
  1. Research renewable energy sources.
  2. Switch to reusable bags. Helpful tip: Attach a carabiner to your grocery store loyalty cards and reusable bags. If you remember one, you remember both.
  3. Conserve energy. Turn down the heat. Turn off your computer at night. Don't go out for just one thing but bundle your errands. Every bit of energy we don't use is some energy we don't have to produce.
  4. Upcycle junk. Have fun turning trash into treasure. 
  5. Conserve and reuse water. 
  6. Recycle! I know it's old news, but it still makes a difference. The energy used to make one brand-spankin'-new aluminum can makes up to 20 recycled cans!
  7. Eat fish that are sustainably caught or raised. 70% of the fish species we love to eat are dying out. 
  8. Tell your friends! If everyone who watched this video challenged three friends to make one tiny change, before you know it, it would make a big difference. When we combine our efforts, we make serious progress.
*Tips via Upworthy
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Yamas: Ahimsa

8/2/2015

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In the yogic tradition there are five moral principals known as the yamas (restraints). 


The yamas are not about 'moral law' per se, but are part of a ‘practice’ to live a more harmonious life. The five yamas make up the first of the eight limbs as outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. 


The first yama is AHIMSA: non-harming and having compassion for all living beings (including ones self). It's not all about ‘hugging trees’, or becoming a vegetarian. By simply making small steps to refrain from harming, and becoming aware of our thought patterns that lead to harmful behavior, our lives become more harmonious.




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“I offer you peace. I offer you love. I offer you friendship.
I see your beauty. I hear your need. 
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My wisdom flows from the Highest Source. I salute that Source in you. 
Let us work together for unity and love.” 
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– Mahatma Gandhi –

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