05/31/2019
When we look at pictures of yoga postures, often all we may see is the physical side of the practice. But this is only one small aspect of what yoga truly is about. According to yoga philosophy and teachings, there are eight limbs (pathways) of living a yogic lifestyle. *The Yamas teach us how to treat one another, with love, compassion, honesty, and kindness. *The Niyamas guide us towards better treatment of ourselves, respect and purity of body, heart, and mind. *The Asana is the physical practice that we have clung onto so deeply especially in the Western cultures. *Pranayama teaches us to control our breath with mindfulness. *Pratyahara encourages withdrawing from the distractions of society and the world in order to begin the deep journey inside. *Dharana builds deep focus and concentration that cannot be so easily distracted. * Dyhana brings this single pointed focus to a more easy state of continued effortless flow of concentration. * Lastly, Samadhi brings us to a place bliss, a sense of perfect union to God, the world, and ourself. Through the practice of the prior 7 paths we can discover this state. 💕Each help us to live more meaningful lives, all are equally import. Sometimes I forget the reasons why I love yoga so much. The Eight Paths are the reason I keep coming back to my practice, both on my mat and in my life. What aspects gravitate you towards yoga? 🙂 Namaste dear friends, the light inside me honors the light in you 🙏🌞💕
