Yoga

2 Pages 619 Words

1.) The first of the eight limbs of yoga is Yama (restraints), Ahisma: nonviolence, Satya: commitment to truth , Asteya: non-stealing, and Bramacharya: redirecting sexual energy. The second part of the limbs is Niyama (observances), Shauca: purity, Santosha: contentment, Tapas: discipline, enthusiasm, Svadhaya: scriptural/literal study, and Ishvarapranidhanad: surrender. The third limb is Asana, which are the postures. Fourth is Pranayama, which is breath control or control of life force. Fifth is Pratyahara, the withdrawing from the mind from sense of perception. Sixth is Dharana (concentration). Seventh is Dhyana, which is meditation. The eighth and final one is Samadhi, the superconsciousness.
For the time being, I intend to practice asana because I find it easier to focus on the physical benefits that the asanas provide. If I said that I practice yoga rather than asana I would be wrong because to practice yoga fully, I feel that I would have to have a better understanding of yoga philosophy and breathing techniques. When I am in my postures, I still find it hard to breath in a slow controlled way; especially when I’m in a challenging pose.
2.) The Yamas are Ahisma, Satya, Asteya, and Bramacharya. Ahisma is non-violence, kindness and no harm in your action. There should be awareness or gentleness in our actions, thought and speech. Satya is the commitment to truth in our speech, thoughts and deeds. Asteya is non-stealing, not coveting, not being jealous. Bramacharya is moderation in all things, channeling emotions, self-containment and control of sensual feelings. The Niyamas are Shaucha, Santosha, Tapas, Svadhaya and Ishvarapranidhanad. Shaucha is purity of body, cleanliness, good health habits and an orderly environment. Santosha is contentment, accepting what is and making the best out of everything. Tapas is the willingness to do what is necessary to reach a goal with discipline. Svadhaya is self-education, studying, refle...