If you wish to observe all aspects of human mind through yoga then ashtanga yoga is the most suitable form of yoga. With a view to still and observe the mind, Patanjali presents a system called ashtanga yoga. It is also called as Eight Limbed Yoga. These various limbs are various aspects of the system. These eight limbs of ashtanga yoga are as follows:-
Yamas i.e. Restraints or Abstinence: As per Patanjali Yoga Sutra there are five yamas which include Ahimsa, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Satya and Aparigraha. These yamas are also known as great universal vows.
Niyamas i.e. Observances or Disciplines or Devotion: how people relate themselves inwardly is described as niyamas. Niyamas the second constituent of ashtanga yoga are self regulation which assists in maintaining positive environment.
Yogasana: Yogasanas or yogic postures are the prime constituents of ashtanga yoga. Yogasana are the rights posture of sitting to facilitate mediation. It assists in creating the right balance of basic structure of human body.
Pranayama i.e. Breath Control: Pranayama is a breath control exercise. Being an integral part of ashtanga yoga it is beneficial in maintaining healthy lifestyle. It leads to a state of inner peace.
Pratyahara i.e. Retraction of the Senses: The fifth limb of ashtanga yoga is Pratyahara. If you are unable to manage your senses rightly then Pratyahara can help you. It teaches you keeping rein over your senses for increasing attention. It is practised through mantra meditation and visualization techniques.
Dharana i.e. Fixation of Attention: as the name signifies this form of ashtanga yoga involves developing and extending power of concentration. Dharna is the state of mediation when your mind is able to keep concentration and do not get distracted.
Dhyana i.e. Devotion: Dhyana is the way of creating deep concentrate. It assists you in distracting your mind from outward activities.
Samadhi: Samadhi is a state of mind when the though and actions unite. It creates a connection between the individual and the universal soul.
Ashtanga yoga is a great way to improve circulation, detoxify body and strengthen the body. Also it calms the mind. Learn the various forms of this yoga to reach the complete realization of your mind and body.
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