As I've immersed myself in the practice of yoga over time, I've come to realize that while many modern individuals primarily associate it with engaging in physical exercises, there is a profound depth to this discipline beyond the mere movements.
People approach yoga for diverse purposes and at varying levels. A significant number are drawn to its physical benefits, focusing on the exercises themselves. A smaller segment utilizes the practices to attain mental relaxation. Even fewer delve deeply into the realm of healing by learning to quiet their minds and attune to their breath during sessions.
A select few grasp the art of presence during their yoga practice. Within an even smaller circle, individuals succeed in carrying the focus cultivated in their practice into the ordinary moments of their everyday lives.
Within this contemplative journey, a rare group comes to appreciate and truly understand the magic within yoga, delving into the multifaceted aspects comprising its many limbs, as part of a system and philosophy guiding a life of integrity.
The eight-limbed system of yoga encompasses the following domains:
1. Ethics: Honesty, non-violence, non-harm, generosity, and moderation.
2. Self-discipline and practice.
3. Purity, austerity, self-study, contentment, and surrender.
4. Asana practices, exercises, and postures that unite the body and mind through meditation and breath awareness.
5. Inner introspection.
6. Focus and attentive awareness.
7. Letting go of attachments and efforts.
8. Samadhi: The state of universal consciousness, enlightenment, and the experience of profound bliss. (This state of mind is real and it's achieve if we just practice for a long enough period time. People all over the world, at all times get to it and/or some people never left it from birth to death.)
Originally intended as a science rather than a religious or spiritual way of life, yoga encompasses an ancient system that offers a comprehensive approach to living happily and harmoniously with fellow humans, all sentient beings, and the Earth. Its purpose is to assist practitioners in leading peaceful lives and fostering healing within themselves and the world around them.
