The eight-limbed path as outlined by Patanjali
in the Yoga Sutras. These eight steps are the most effective when practiced together, and each
one prepares the mind and body for the
nuances of the next.
- Yama - Social Restraints
- Niyama - Self Restraints
- Asana - Postures
- Pranayama - Breath control
- Pratyahara - Withdrawal of the senses
- Dharana - One-pointed concentration
- Dhyana - Meditation
- Samadhi - Liberation
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The six-limbed path, as outlined in the
Gheranda Samhita, assume that the yamas and
niyamas have already been mastered and places more emphasis on the
energetic body by including mudras.
- Asana - Postures
- Mudra - Hand gestures
- Pranayama - Breath control
- Pratyahara - Withdrawal of the
senses
- Dhyana - Meditation
- Samadhi - Liberation
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THE FIVE KOSHAS:
We are multi-dimensional beings - we are not just our physical body or mind. We are holistic, multi-dimensional beings made up by different, interactive levels. In this framework, these levels are referred to as the Five Koshas, or five ‘sheaths’ of our being. Starting from the outermost layer and moving towards the core, the Five Koshas proceed from outer to inner in greater and greater levels of subtlety - the body, life force or energy body, mind, intuition and pure spiritual being.
KOSHA |
MEANING |
PHYSICAL SYSTEMS |
PRACTICES |
KEEP IN BALANCE |
Annamaya |
Physical
Body |
Muscles
Bones
Skin
Organs |
Asana |
Healthy Eating |
Pranamaya |
Energy
Body |
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Conserving your energy, not over-committing yourself
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Manomaya |
Mental
Body |
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Cultivate self-awareness, practice non-judgement, cultivate compassion
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Vijnanamaya |
Intuitive
Body |
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Anandamaya |
Bliss
Body |
Connection to nature, others and the divine
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Find meaningful connections every day
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