| The Eight Limbs of Yoga |
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While the physical component of yoga is certainly of importance, it is only one of the eight traditional limbs of yoga practice, all of which have meditation on God as their purpose. These are the eight limbs of the complete yoga system as they are found in the famous yoga textbook known as the Yoga Sutras, written by the sage Patanjali in circa 200 B.C. Briefly, they are as follows:
1. Yama: These are five positive ethical guidelines (restraints, or abstinences) that include non-violence, fidelity to the Absolute, non-stealing, truthfulness and non-attachment.
2. Niyama: These are five positive behaviors, including cleanliness, contentment, self-discipline, self-study and devotion to God.
3. Asana: These are the actual physical exercises that people usually associate with yoga. These powerful poses are designed to give our bodies strength, flexibility and energy. They also contribute to the deep sense of relaxation that is necessary in order to lovingly meditate on the Absolute. |
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| Ashtanga Yoga |
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| These eight limbs together constitute the complete system known as classical Ashtanga Yoga. When yoga is diligently practiced under the guidance of a well-trained spiritual teacher (guru), it can lead to liberation from all illusion and suffering. |
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| The four type of Yoga |
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Theologically speaking, there are four divisions of Yoga, that form one of the cornerstones of Hinduism. In Sanskrit, they are called Raja-Yoga, Karma-Yoga, Bhakti-Yoga and Jnana-Yoga. And the person who seeks this kind of a union is called a 'Yogi':
1. Karma-Yoga: The worker is called the Karma-Yogi.
2. Raja-Yoga: One who seeks this union through mysticism is called a Raja-Yogi.
3. Bhakti-Yoga: One who searches this union in love is a Bhakti-Yogi.
4. Jnana-Yoga: One who seeks this Yoga through philosophy is called the Jnana-Yogi.
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