In the second century, Patanjali wrote the Yoga Sutra. The Sutra is relatively brief. It outlines the practice of yoga in totality, and the life principals to guide that practice.
This is just a simple outline for my readers’ reference.
(Note: You can find lots of complete translations of the Yoga Sutra on the internet and in bookstores.)
Ashtanga, or the Eight-Limbed Path of Yoga
1. Yamas (the “don’ts”)
- Ahimsa (non-violence)
- Satya (non-lying, or truth)
- Asteya (non-stealing)
- Brachmacharya (celibacy, self-restraint, or walking your path in union with God)
- Aparigraha (non-greed)
2. Niyamas (the “dos”)
- Saucha (purity)
- Santosa (contentment)
- Tapas (austerity)
- Avadhyaya (self-study)
- Isavra Pranidhana (devotion to God)
3. Asana (the physical practice of yoga postures)
4. Pranayama (breathwork)
5. Pratyahara (withdrawal of energy from the senses)
6. Dharana (concentration)
7. Dhyana (meditation)
8. Samadhi (self-actualization)
