8.2 Yoga: Philosophy and practice
5 min read•august 15, 2024
philosophy, closely linked to , explores the relationship between consciousness and matter. It offers a practical path to liberation through the eight limbs of yoga, which include ethical principles, physical practices, and meditation techniques.
The ultimate goal of yoga is to achieve union between the individual self and the universal self. This is accomplished through a combination of physical postures, breath control, meditation, and inner practices that lead to self-realization and spiritual enlightenment.
Yoga Philosophy and Samkhya
Shared Concepts and Dualistic View
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- Yoga philosophy shares many concepts with the Samkhya school of Hindu philosophy, including the idea of (pure consciousness) and (matter)
- According to Samkhya, the universe is composed of two eternal realities: purusha and prakriti
- Yoga philosophy adopts this dualistic view
- Aims to liberate the purusha from the entanglements of prakriti
- Samkhya's concept of the three (sattva, rajas, and tamas) is also incorporated into Yoga philosophy
- These gunas are the fundamental qualities of prakriti that influence human behavior and mental states (sattva represents purity and balance, rajas represents activity and passion, and tamas represents inertia and ignorance)
Divergence and Importance of Discriminative Knowledge
- Yoga philosophy diverges from Samkhya by emphasizing the practical methods for achieving liberation, such as the eight limbs of Yoga
- Samkhya focuses more on the theoretical understanding of the universe
- Both Yoga and Samkhya recognize the importance of discriminative knowledge () in distinguishing between purusha and prakriti
- Essential for attaining liberation ()
- Viveka helps the practitioner realize the true nature of the self as pure consciousness, separate from the changing phenomena of the material world (prakriti)
Eight Limbs of Yoga
Ethical Principles, Self-Discipline, and Physical Practices
- The eight limbs of Yoga, as outlined in 's , provide a systematic approach to spiritual practice and self-realization
- The first two limbs, and , focus on ethical principles and self-discipline
- Yama includes non-violence (), truthfulness (), non-stealing (), celibacy (), and non-possessiveness ()
- Niyama comprises purity (), contentment (), austerity (), self-study (), and surrender to the divine ()
- , the third limb, refers to the practice of physical postures to promote bodily health, mental stability, and spiritual awareness
- , the fourth limb, involves breath control techniques to regulate the flow of prana (vital energy) and calm the mind (examples include alternate nostril breathing () and victorious breath ())
Inner Practices and Ultimate Union
- , the fifth limb, is the withdrawal of the senses from external objects, allowing the practitioner to turn inward and focus on the inner self
- , the sixth limb, is the practice of concentration, fixing the mind on a single point or object to develop mental stability and clarity (examples include focusing on a candle flame or a mantra)
- , the seventh limb, is the state of meditation, where the mind becomes absorbed in the object of concentration, leading to a state of deep contemplation and insight
- , the eighth and final limb, is the state of ultimate union with the divine, where the individual self merges with the universal self, resulting in a state of pure consciousness and bliss
- In samadhi, the practitioner transcends the limitations of the ego and experiences a profound sense of oneness with all of creation
Meditation and Asanas in Yoga
Benefits and Preparation for Meditation
- Meditation and physical postures are two essential components of Yoga practice that work together to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being
- Asanas help to prepare the body for meditation by promoting physical health, flexibility, and strength
- Regular practice of asanas can also reduce stress, improve posture, and increase bodily awareness (examples include tadasana (mountain pose) and virabhadrasana (warrior pose))
- Asanas are believed to stimulate the flow of prana (vital energy) through the nadis (energy channels) of the body, removing blockages and promoting balance and harmony
Techniques and Integration
- Meditation helps to calm the mind, reduce mental distractions, and cultivate and clarity
- Regular meditation practice can lead to increased self-awareness, emotional stability, and spiritual insight
- Meditation techniques in Yoga often involve focusing the mind on a specific object, such as the breath, a mantra, or a visualized image, to develop concentration and awareness (examples include of breath (anapanasati) and loving-kindness meditation (metta bhavana))
- The combination of asana practice and meditation helps to integrate the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the individual, promoting a holistic approach to self-realization
Union of Self in Yoga
Liberation and Realization of True Nature
- The ultimate goal of Yoga is often referred to as moksha, which is the liberation of the individual self () from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth ()
- In Yoga philosophy, the individual self is believed to be a manifestation of the universal self (), but due to ignorance (), the individual self identifies with the temporary and changing aspects of the body and mind
- Through the practice of Yoga, the individual seeks to remove the veil of ignorance and realize the true nature of the self as pure consciousness, which is identical to the universal self
Unity and Transformation of Consciousness
- The union of the individual self with the universal self is known as yoga, which literally means "to yoke" or "to unite"
- This union is characterized by a state of pure awareness, bliss, and freedom from suffering
- The realization of the unity between the individual self and the universal self is said to bring about a profound transformation in the practitioner's consciousness
- Leads to a state of permanent peace, happiness, and self-realization
- This ultimate goal of Yoga is not merely an intellectual understanding but a direct experiential realization that transcends the limitations of the ego and the mind, revealing the inherent divinity within oneself and all of creation
- This realization is often described as a state of enlightenment or self-actualization, where the practitioner experiences a profound sense of unity and interconnectedness with all of existence
Key Terms to Review (35)
Ahimsa: Ahimsa is a fundamental ethical principle in Hinduism that promotes non-violence and the avoidance of harm to any living being. It is not just the absence of physical violence but also encompasses thoughts, words, and actions that could cause harm, making it a central tenet in living a moral and compassionate life.
Aparigraha: Aparigraha is a Sanskrit term that translates to non-possessiveness or non-attachment. It emphasizes the importance of letting go of material possessions and desires, promoting a lifestyle of simplicity and freedom from greed. This concept is deeply woven into the practices of yoga, encouraging practitioners to cultivate detachment from both physical and emotional attachments in their journey toward spiritual enlightenment.
Asana: Asana refers to the physical postures or poses practiced in yoga, which are designed to promote physical health, flexibility, and mental focus. In the context of yoga, asanas are crucial as they help prepare the body for meditation and facilitate the flow of energy throughout the body. They also serve as a means to cultivate discipline and enhance overall well-being.
Asteya: Asteya is a Sanskrit term that means 'non-stealing' and is one of the ethical principles outlined in the Yamas of Yoga. It emphasizes not just refraining from stealing in a physical sense but also avoiding taking anything that is not freely given, including time, ideas, and energy. This principle promotes integrity and respect for others' possessions and rights, and it forms an essential aspect of ethical conduct in the practice of Yoga.
Atman: Atman refers to the individual self or soul in Hindu philosophy, considered the true essence of a person that is eternal and beyond physical existence. This concept is crucial in understanding the relationship between the individual and the universal spirit, leading to discussions about the nature of reality and liberation.
Avidya: Avidya refers to ignorance or lack of knowledge, particularly in the context of spiritual understanding. In Hindu philosophy, it is considered the root cause of human suffering and the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara), as it leads individuals to misidentify with the ego and the material world rather than recognizing their true nature as Atman or the eternal self. The recognition and overcoming of avidya is essential for liberation (moksha) and plays a significant role in various paths of spiritual practice, including knowledge, devotion, and meditation.
Brahmacharya: Brahmacharya is a Sanskrit term meaning 'celibacy' or 'chastity,' particularly in the context of spiritual development and self-control. It represents a stage of life in the ashrama system where individuals focus on education and personal growth, often emphasizing discipline and the pursuit of knowledge while practicing restraint from sensual pleasures. This concept extends beyond mere abstinence, embodying a lifestyle dedicated to self-mastery and spiritual growth.
Brahman: Brahman is the ultimate reality or cosmic spirit in Hinduism, representing the source of all existence and the essence of the universe. It is formless, transcendent, and immanent, serving as the foundation of all that is, connecting various elements of Hindu thought including deities, philosophical concepts, and spiritual practices.
Dharana: Dharana refers to the practice of concentration or focus in yoga, specifically within the framework of Ashtanga Yoga. It involves the ability to fix the mind on a single point or object, whether it be an external object, a mantra, or an internal thought, as a way to develop mental discipline. This practice is essential for progressing through the eight limbs of Ashtanga Yoga and ultimately leads to deeper states of meditation and self-realization.
Dhyana: Dhyana is a form of meditation that involves focused concentration and deep contemplation, aiming for a state of inner peace and unity with the divine. This practice is integral to various paths of yoga, helping practitioners achieve self-realization and enlightenment. By cultivating mindfulness and a profound connection to the divine, dhyana serves as a bridge to higher states of consciousness in both the disciplined approach of yoga and the devotional practices centered on love and surrender.
Gunas: Gunas are the three fundamental qualities or tendencies that influence human behavior and the nature of all things in the universe. These qualities—sattva (purity, harmony), rajas (activity, passion), and tamas (inertia, darkness)—play a crucial role in yoga philosophy, as they shape the individual's mental state and spiritual journey. Understanding gunas helps practitioners identify their inclinations and promote balance through practices aimed at enhancing sattva while managing rajas and tamas.
Inner peace: Inner peace refers to a state of mental and emotional calmness, with a sense of balance and harmony within oneself. It is often sought through practices that promote mindfulness, self-awareness, and emotional regulation, leading to a deeper connection with one's inner self. This state is integral to various philosophies and practices, including those found in yoga, where the focus is on achieving tranquility amidst external chaos.
Ishvara pranidhana: Ishvara pranidhana is a Sanskrit term meaning 'surrender to God' or 'devotion to a higher power'. It signifies the practice of surrendering one's ego and will to a divine force, recognizing the limitations of the individual self. This concept is integral to the spiritual journey within yoga, encouraging practitioners to cultivate humility and trust in a greater purpose beyond personal desires.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment, aware of one’s thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without judgment. It plays a crucial role in both yoga philosophy and practice, encouraging individuals to cultivate awareness and acceptance in their lives. Through mindfulness, practitioners can enhance their understanding of themselves and the world around them, fostering a deeper connection to the principles of yoga and personal growth.
Moksha: Moksha is the ultimate goal in Hinduism, representing liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara). It signifies the realization of one's true self (Atman) and union with the absolute reality (Brahman), leading to eternal peace and freedom from all suffering.
Nadi shodhana: Nadi shodhana, often referred to as alternate nostril breathing, is a yogic practice designed to purify the energy channels (nadis) within the body and promote balance between the right and left hemispheres of the brain. This technique not only helps in achieving a state of calmness and relaxation but also enhances mental clarity and focus, making it a vital component of yoga practices aimed at achieving higher states of consciousness and inner peace.
Niyama: Niyama refers to a set of personal observances and ethical guidelines within the framework of yoga, emphasizing self-discipline, devotion, and inner growth. It complements the practice of Ashtanga Yoga by providing a foundation for practitioners to cultivate positive behaviors and attitudes that lead to spiritual advancement. By practicing niyama, individuals align their actions with their deeper values, enhancing their overall journey in both philosophy and practice.
Patanjali: Patanjali is an ancient Indian sage traditionally credited with compiling the Yoga Sutras, a foundational text of yoga philosophy that outlines the principles of yoga and meditation. His work serves as a guide for understanding the nature of the mind and the path to spiritual enlightenment, emphasizing the importance of balancing the three gunas in personal development, as well as the structured approach to yoga practice.
Prakriti: Prakriti is the Sanskrit term for nature or the material world, representing the original state of creation in Hindu philosophy. It encompasses the physical universe and all its manifestations, contrasting with purusha, which signifies the spiritual essence or consciousness. Prakriti plays a crucial role in various philosophical schools and practices, influencing concepts like the three gunas and the dualistic understanding of reality in systems such as Samkhya and Yoga.
Pranayama: Pranayama is a set of breathing techniques in yoga that aim to control and regulate the breath, considered essential for enhancing the flow of prana, or vital energy, throughout the body. It serves as a bridge between the physical practices of yoga and the mental and spiritual aspects, helping to prepare practitioners for deeper meditation. This practice is often integrated into the broader framework of yoga, emphasizing the connection between breath, body, and mind.
Pratyahara: Pratyahara is the fifth limb of Ashtanga Yoga, referring to the practice of withdrawing the senses from external stimuli to achieve greater focus and concentration. This concept emphasizes turning inward, allowing practitioners to detach from distractions and become more aware of their inner selves. It acts as a bridge between the outer practices of yoga, such as postures and breathing exercises, and the deeper meditative states that lead to spiritual insight.
Purusha: Purusha is a foundational concept in Hindu philosophy representing the cosmic spirit or universal consciousness. It is seen as the eternal, unchanging essence that pervades all existence and serves as the source of all creation. This concept plays a crucial role in various branches of Hindu thought, emphasizing the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and the universal spirit, connecting with ideas of dualism and the practice of yoga.
Samadhi: Samadhi is a state of intense concentration and meditation in Hinduism, where an individual transcends their normal consciousness and experiences a deep sense of unity with the object of meditation. It represents the culmination of the practice of yoga, leading to spiritual awakening and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This state is essential in understanding the eight limbs of yoga, as it illustrates the ultimate goal of self-realization and enlightenment.
Samkhya: Samkhya is one of the oldest philosophical systems in Hinduism, focusing on a dualistic understanding of reality. It distinguishes between two fundamental realities: Purusha (consciousness) and Prakriti (matter), emphasizing knowledge and self-realization as the means to liberation. This philosophical approach has significantly influenced various aspects of Hindu thought, including its definitions, historical development, schools of thought, and practices like yoga.
Samsara: Samsara is the continuous cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth that all beings experience in Hindu philosophy. It is a fundamental concept in Hinduism that illustrates the transient nature of existence and the journey of the soul through various forms and experiences until it achieves liberation.
Santosha: Santosha is a Sanskrit term that means contentment or satisfaction, and it is one of the key principles in the practice of yoga. This concept emphasizes the importance of finding joy and peace in the present moment, regardless of external circumstances. By cultivating santosha, practitioners can develop a sense of inner happiness that is not dependent on material possessions or specific outcomes, aligning with the deeper philosophy of yoga and its eight limbs.
Satya: Satya, in Hinduism, refers to truthfulness and is considered a fundamental ethical principle. It is seen as an essential aspect of dharma, guiding individuals in their moral conduct and social responsibilities. Practicing satya fosters honesty, integrity, and transparency, enabling individuals to uphold their duties and contribute positively to society. Additionally, it plays a significant role in spiritual practices like yoga, emphasizing the importance of truth in both personal and communal life.
Saucha: Saucha is a Sanskrit term that translates to 'purity' or 'cleanliness,' and it plays a vital role in yoga and spiritual practices. This concept emphasizes both physical and mental cleanliness, as well as purity of intention and thought. In the context of Ashtanga Yoga, saucha is one of the key ethical precepts that guides practitioners towards a more disciplined and harmonious life.
Svadhyaya: Svadhyaya refers to the practice of self-study or introspection, often involving the reading and contemplation of sacred texts. This concept emphasizes personal growth and understanding one's true self in connection with the divine. By engaging in svadhyaya, practitioners seek to deepen their spiritual knowledge and cultivate awareness of their thoughts, actions, and motivations, thus enhancing their spiritual journey.
Tapas: Tapas refers to the concept of spiritual austerity and discipline in Hinduism and yoga, often involving practices that promote self-control, purification, and inner strength. It is considered a vital component of spiritual development, as it helps practitioners to cultivate willpower and endurance through various physical and mental challenges. This concept plays a significant role in the framework of yoga, especially in the practices aimed at achieving higher states of consciousness and self-realization.
Ujjayi: Ujjayi is a breathing technique used in yoga practice, characterized by a slow and controlled inhalation and exhalation through the nose while constricting the throat slightly to create a soft sound reminiscent of ocean waves. This technique enhances the flow of prana (life energy), promotes focus, and helps regulate body temperature during asana practice.
Viveka: Viveka refers to the ability to discern or differentiate between the real and the unreal, the eternal and the ephemeral. This concept is essential in Hindu philosophy, particularly within the paths of knowledge and yoga, as it encourages individuals to seek truth and understanding beyond the illusions of the material world.
Yama: Yama refers to the ethical disciplines or moral restraints that are foundational principles in yoga philosophy, particularly in the context of Ashtanga Yoga. It serves as the first of the eight limbs of yoga, guiding practitioners on how to interact with the world and others. By practicing yama, individuals cultivate virtues such as non-violence, truthfulness, and self-control, which are essential for personal growth and spiritual development.
Yoga: Yoga is a spiritual, mental, and physical practice that originated in ancient India, focusing on the union of the individual self with the universal consciousness. This practice encompasses various disciplines, philosophies, and techniques aimed at achieving harmony and enlightenment, influencing many key aspects of Hinduism such as its historical development and diverse schools of thought.
Yoga Sutras: The Yoga Sutras are a collection of aphorisms compiled by the sage Patanjali around the 2nd century BCE, serving as a foundational text for the philosophy and practice of yoga. These sutras outline the principles of yoga, emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit, and providing a systematic approach to achieving spiritual enlightenment and self-realization. The Yoga Sutras also address the three gunas, dualistic philosophy, and the practical aspects of yoga practice.