aṣṭāṅga

eight limbed path

The Yoga Sūtras of Patañjali describe what is referred to as the eight limbed path. Patañjali, the sage who compiled the Yoga Sūtras, consolidated the existing information on the topic of yoga - all which had been passed on orally for generations, over the course of the ages. The particular philosophical framework that is described in the Yoga Sūtras are referred to as “ashtanga” - ashta (eight) anga (limb) - literally means eight limbs.

This philosophical framework goes into detail when describing the essence of yoga (union) and what one may face when on this particular spiritual path. The Yoga Sūtras expounds upon the science of the mind and the process of union, and is in many ways is the backbone of traditional yoga practices. No matter which of the paths of yoga one explores, the eight limbs facilitates the deep dive as they give reference points, providing suggestions, and useful tools for the inner journey.

The eight limbs are: Yama (abstinences), Niyama (Observances), Asana (Postures), Pranayama (Breath Control), Pratyahara (Sense Withdrawal), Dharana (Concentration), Dhyana (Meditation), and Samadhi (Contemplation). Depending on the particular translation of the Yoga Sūtras, you will find slightly different translations of these terms, as well as a myriad of different interpretations of their implications and relevance to a spiritual practice.

What is important to highlight is the fact that these steps are not linear, at least not in our experience. It is not like you walk a step ladder and the end goal is enlightenment (though some have adopted the teachings of the eight limbs of the Yoga Sūtras in this fashion). We believe it is a process, a cyclical/spiraling journey almost, and that all aspects of the eight limbs are supportive of one another (more or less pronounced at different times of the journey). We will dive deeper into this in the Philosophy section, all in due time.

Having a sadhana or spiritual practice is a way to incorporate philosophical tools and perspectives into ones inner work. The philosophical ideas create a framework, and offers practical tools, as means for expanded awareness and can be helpful when deciphering our experiences and the lessons they provide. However, the eight limbs mentioned in the Yoga Sūtras are merely one out of many similar philosophies offered to seekers on the path. Other spiritual traditions have their own concepts and frameworks for the same inner work. What is important is to not look so much at the words that are used, but rather to that which they point - to that which is beyond any words. No matter what language is used to describe these philosophical concepts, they provide tools for understanding - on many levels - and they all point to the same source, in their own way. We are all going to be drawn to different verbiage and practices, hence the different spiritual traditions. Follow your heart resonance when it comes to this. Once we move beyond the differences and apply the mind to one path, the mind can start to relax and find its way.

With the help of the spiritual philosophies, it is can ease the journey through the inner terrain. It is like holding a map when entering new terrain or facing obstacles. One does not have to buy into a certain philosophy to be on the spiritual path, and what is described philosophically may resonate with you in different phases of your journey. However, the different philosophic frameworks that are described by the spiritual traditions offer means to unite the head and the heart, in more ways than one.