Eight Limbs of Yoga (Ashtanga)
Welcome to the Philosophy page where you can learn about the concepts behind the practice of
Hatha yoga. This page is under construction so check back often to see newly added
information.
The eight-limbed path as outlined by Patanjali
in the Yoga Sutras places the yamas &
niyamas, before asana. While these limbs or
steps can be taken one at a time, they are
most effective when practiced together, and
each one prepares the mind and body for the
nuances of the next.

  1. Yama - Self-restraints
  2. Niyama - Moral observences
  3. Asana - Postures
  4. Pranayama - Breath control
  5. Pratyahara - Withdrawal of the senses
  6. Dharana - One-pointed concentration
  7. Dhyana - Meditation
  8. Samadhi - Liberation
Six Limbs of Yoga
The six-limbed path, as outlined in the
Gheranda Samhita, assume that the
practitioner has already perfected the yamas
and niyamas and places more emphasis on
the energetic body by including mudras.

  1. Asana - Postures
  2. Mudra - Hand gestures
  3. Pranayama - Breath control
  4. Pratayahara - Withdrawal of the
    senses
  5. Dhyana - Meditation
  6. Samadhi - Liberation
Yoga Philosophy