Yoga with Abbie

Yoga teacher training touched on the spiritual and philosophical aspects of yoga and specifically the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali.  Other texts were mentioned as well, but Patanjali provides a short and seemingly simple path.  I say seemingly because I’ve outlined the path below – eight things, you think, how hard could that be – as they are all items that deserve attention on their own.  This post will serve as a reference as more time is later spent on the various items and their interpretations and applications in my own life.

1. Yamas – ethical standards, actions relating to external world
   1. Ahimsa – Do no harm
   2. Satya – Truthfulness, in word and thought
   3. Asteya – Non-stealing / coveting
   4. Brahmacharya – Abstinence
   5. Aparigraha – Non-possessiveness
2. Niyamas – self-discipline, relating to ourselves
   1. Saucha – Cleanliness
   2. Samtosa – Contentment
   3. Tapas – Spiritual
   4. Svadhyaya – Study of vedic scriptures
   5. Isvara pranidhana – Worship of God
3. Asana – the physical poses
4. Pranayama – controlling the breath
5. Pratyahara – detaching from senses, while remaining aware
6. Dharana – concentration on a single point
7. Dhyana – meditation
8. Samadhi – oneness  with meditation object and  per Patanjali a state of ecstasy