Philosophy
Ashtanga
Aṣṭāṅgaअष्टांग· ahsh-TAHN-gaheight (aṣṭa) limbs (aṅga)
Ashtanga is the eight-limbed path of yoga set out in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras — eight progressive practices leading from ethical living to deep meditative absorption.
The eight limbs are yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. They move from how we relate to the world, through the body and breath, to the inner practices of concentration and absorption. (Note: 'Ashtanga' also names a modern vigorous yoga style, which draws its name from this path.)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the eight limbs of yoga?
- They are yama (ethics toward others), niyama (personal observances), asana (posture), pranayama (breath regulation), pratyahara (turning the senses inward), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (absorption).
References
- Patanjali, Yoga Sutras 2.29 · Classical text — Lists the eight limbs (ashtanga).