Ashtanga Yoga - the Eight Limbs of Yoga

I. Yama - Civilizing behaviors and attitudes

Ahimsa- Nonviolence

Asteya
- Nonstealing

Aparigraha
- Nonaccumulation/ noncoveting

Satya
- Truthfulness, honesty

Brahmacharya
- transforming desires into pursuit of Dharma, regulation of diet, sex, sleep

II. Niyama - Qualities to be promoted

Soucha- Cleanliness

Santosha
- Contentment

Tapas
- Sacrifice

Svadyaya
- Study; self-inquiry

Ishvara Pranidana
- Surrender to the great Mystery; dedication of the fruits of one's actions for the unseen benefit of all

 

III. Asana - Posture, for bodily purification

 

VI. Dharana - Concentration

IV. Pranayama - Regulation of the breath
VII. Dhyana - Meditation
V. Pratyahara - withdrawal of the mind,
establishing the Witness
 
VIII. Samadhi - Absorption, ecstasy