The Path to Wholeness: Understanding the Eight Building Blocks of Ashtanga Yoga
\r\n \\r\\n The Path to Wholeness: Understanding the Eight Building Blocks of Ashtanga Yoga
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Welcome to an enlightening journey of self-discovery through Ashtanga Yoga, an ancient practice with roots in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, compiled over 2,000 years ago. Ashtanga Yoga encompasses eight essential components that guide us towards inner transformation. It offers a holistic framework for harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Let us now embark on a journey of exploration, as we delve into the depths of each element of Ashtanga Yoga. From the foundational principles to the transcendent practices, we will uncover the significance and transformative power of each component.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 1. Yam
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n अहिंसासत्यास्तेयब्रह्मचर्यापरग्रहाः यमा ॥
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n It is the initial stage of Ashtanga Yoga and the first step that practitioners should undertake when following the path of yoga. It refers to one's ethical conduct and requires individuals to uphold moral principles in their daily lives.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Five Yams are: -
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- \r\n \\r\\n Ahimsa \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
- \r\n \\r\\n Satya \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
- \r\n \\r\\n Asteya \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
- \r\n \\r\\n Brahmcharya \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
- \r\n \\r\\n Aparigraha \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n · Ahimsa
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n अंहिसा सर्वथा सर्वदा सर्वभूतानामनभिद्रोह: - व्यासभाष्य, योगसूत्र 2। 30
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Ahimsa is not hurting someone through thoughts, words, and actions. One who practices it, is able to get rid of the feeling of enmity and becomes non-violent. However, in Geeta, Ahimsa is defined as-
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n अहिंसा परमो धर्मः
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Non-violence is the ultimate dharma.
\r\n \\r\\n So too is violence in service of Dharma.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n It means that Non-violence, or refraining from causing harm to others for personal gain, is the highest duty to be followed. However, practicing non-violence to protect righteousness is an even greater duty. The definition of "Ahimsa" may vary depending on the situation, but its core essence remains unchanged. However, to make wise decisions and determine the correct course of action, we often require the guidance of a guru who can assist us in discerning and comprehending the truth. A guru helps us in distinguishing right from wrong and supports our understanding of what is correct.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n · Satya
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Being truthful, that is, being true by your thoughts, actions, and words. Speaking the truth in alignment with what one has seen and heard, and expressing it in accordance with one's thoughts, and performing actions consistent with one's words and intentions, is truth. It has an even deeper meaning, but for beginners, this is what should be done when following it. The basics of 'truth' entail maintaining unity between one's thoughts, words, and actions, which can be challenging to uphold.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n मनस्येकं वचस्येकं कर्मण्येकं महात्मानाम्
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n · Asteya
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Asteya is the ethical principle of refraining from unlawfully or unjustly taking the wealth or possessions of others, promoting integrity and respect for their rights and property.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n अस्तेयप्रतिष्ठायां सर्वरत्नोपस्थानम्॥२.३७॥
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Just unjust-fully taking someone else’s possession physically is not stealing. Asteya involves liberating oneself from longing or envying others' possessions, as jealousy can result in discontentment and unskillful actions. It is believed that by embodying Asteya, one paves the way for a multitude of valuable opportunities and treasures to manifest in their life's journey.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n · Brahmacharya
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n In general, it refers to a principle or practice related to self-control, moderation, and the wise use of one’s energy, particularly in the realm of sexuality. It promotes directing energies towards personal ideals, values, and aspirations, fostering self-control, and pursuing spiritual and moral virtues. Its application varies across spiritual and cultural traditions.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n · Aparigraha
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n One should maintain only the necessary material possessions such as food and clothing for the well-being of the body and avoid indulging in excessive luxuries. This principle is known as Aparigraha, which advocates non-attachment to material possessions beyond what is essential for sustenance.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 2. NIYAM
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n शौचसंतोषतपःस्वाध्यायेश्वरप्रणिधानानि नियमा: ।। पातंजलयोगदर्शन 2/32 ।।
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n It is the second part of Ashtanga Yog. They are personal disciplines that guide individuals in leading virtuous and disciplined life. It can also be called a set of rules which should be followed by an individual. It comprises of:
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- \r\n \\r\\n Shauch (Purity): Maintaining cleanliness, both externally and internally, in thoughts, actions, and environment. The purification of the body from impurities through water, external cleanliness, purification of the abdomen through the renunciation of meat, purification of the mind through service to great souls, purification of the intellect through the knowledge of truth, and purification of the soul through devotion to the divine, leads to inner purification. \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
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- \r\n \\r\\n Santosh (Contentment): It is cultivating a sense of contentment and gratitude for what one has, accepting life's circumstances with equanimity. \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
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- \r\n \\r\\n Tap (Discipline): Practicing self-discipline, austerity, and perseverance to cultivate inner strength and overcome obstacles. \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
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- \r\n \\r\\n Swadhyay (Self-Study): Engaging in self-reflection, self-study, and the study of sacred texts to deepen understanding of oneself and the nature of reality. \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
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- \r\n \\r\\n Ishwar Pranidhan (Surrender to a Higher Power): Cultivating devotion, surrender, and faith in a higher power or divine source, aligning one's actions with a greater purpose. \r\n \\r\\n\r\n
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 3. Aasan
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Today, everyone knows Aasans as Yog but Yog is not limited to Aasanas. The state of sitting with a steady body and mind, experiencing comfort without any disturbance or restlessness, is called an Aasana. However, it should be practiced under the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher, as per the proper instructions, and not otherwise. There are 84 types of aasanas.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Aasan is helpful in restraining and controlling our minds, it also helps in maintaining physical well-being.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Upon mastering the aasanas, the practitioner stops getting affected by the fluctuations of cold and heat, hunger and thirst, etc. as these no longer cause any distress or hardship. This sutra explains it rightly-
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n ततो द्वन्द्वानभिघातः ॥ २.४८॥
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 4. Pranayam
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Pranayam = ‘Pran’+ ‘Aayam’
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Pran = Life energy
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Aayam = Control and regulate
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n The breath is the outward expression of Prana, the vital life force. The breath represents the physical aspect of Prana, while Prana itself is subtle and non-physical. By regulating and controlling the breath, one can gain mastery over the inner, subtle Prana. The subtle, psychic Prana is closely linked to the mind. Engaging in pranayama practices aids in meditation and enables the control of the mind.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n There are different pranayama techniques that can be incorporated into our daily routine. Practicing them correctly, at the right time, in the proper posture, helps increase oxygen levels in the body and eliminate toxins from the body.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Various types of pranayams are: - Udvigna Pranayam, Bhramari, Anulom-Vilom, Bhastrika, Kapalbharti, Nadi- Sodhan Pranayam, Shitali, Shitkarni etc.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Practicing pranayama opens up blocked energy channels in the body, allowing for better circulation of blood and improved overall health. It helps in maintaining a robust physical condition and contributes to a longer lifespan.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Practicing pranayama techniques such as ‘Udvigna’ and ‘Bhramari’ aids in the development of intellect and enhances mental sharpness.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n It is important to learn pranayama techniques from a trained yoga instructor to make sure you do them correctly and avoid any problems. Regular practice of pranayama, along with other yoga practices, can contribute to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 5. Pratyahara
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n The natural tendency of the senses is to flow outward toward external objects. When this outward flow of the senses is halted and they turn inward, it is called pratyahara. Through the calmness of the mind, the senses become tranquil/calm.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Pratyahara refers to the state in which the senses are no longer attached or engaged in their respective external objects, allowing them to become as they truly are in the realm of the mind.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 6. Dharana
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n This is the 6th element of Ashtanga Yog. The act of focusing, placing, or centering one's mind on a particular point is called concentration or Dharana.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Practicing dharna leads to Dhyaan which is the next element of the Ashtanga Yog.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n On average, a normal human mind generates around 60,000 to 70,000 thoughts in a day. However, the actual number of thoughts can vary based on an individual's state of mind. A mind filled with worry tends to produce a higher number of thoughts compared to a calm mind. While it can be challenging to completely stop the mind from thinking, we can at least try to direct our focus towards a specific point. By doing so, we can strive to attain a state of mental peace and tranquility.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 7. Dhyaan
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n It is the 7th element of Ashtanga Yog. Dharana leads to Dhyaan.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n After Dharana, when the mind remains undisturbed by any external distractions and becomes absorbed in a single-pointed focus, it is called Dhyana.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Dhyana, also known as meditation, refers to the state where the knowledge or activity of the mind remains unified or consistent with the point of focus, regardless of the location where concentration has been practiced.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n The prolonged practice of Dhyaan leads to Samaadhi.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n 8. Samaadhi
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n The prolonged practice of Dhyaan can lead to the state of Samaadhi.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n The state of deep absorption where a yogi forgets their own self and becomes completely merged in the object of focus (the dhyey) is known as a special state of Samaadhi for the accomplished practitioner of yoga.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n The combination of the object of focus (dhyey), the meditator (dhyata), and the act of meditation (dhyaan) is called "Triputi." As long as the awareness of this triad remains, it is considered as dhyaan (meditation). However, as one continues to meditate, gradually transcending the identification with the object of focus, a sense of emptiness or voidness from one's own true nature emerges. This state is referred to as Samaadhi (deep absorption).
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Samaadhi is often considered a pinnacle state of meditation, representing a state of expanded consciousness, bliss, and spiritual awakening.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n As we conclude our exploration of Ashtanga Yoga's eight essential elements, we are reminded of the profound potential that this ancient practice holds. Through diligent practice and sincere dedication, we can integrate these principles into our lives, fostering physical strength, mental clarity, and spiritual awakening. Whether it is cultivating self-discipline through the yamas and niyamas, deepening our breath with pranayama, or attaining meditative absorption in samadhi, each element offers a unique doorway to self-discovery and inner transformation. May the wisdom gained from Ashtanga Yoga guide us on a lifelong journey of growth, balance, and profound connection to our true selves.
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\r\n\r\n \\r\\n Namaste!
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