Ancient Roots

The Philosophy of Union

Yoga is more than just stretching. It is a complete guide to living mindfully and finding peace inside.

What is Yoga?

Derived from the Sanskrit word "Yuj," meaning to connect or unite.

Traditionally, yoga was created to quiet the busy thoughts in our heads and help us feel calm. In ancient yoga guides, yoga is defined simply as calming the mind.

To help us find this quiet state, ancient guides outlined an eight-step path. This path begins with how we treat others and moves inward toward deep meditation.

Ashtanga (Eight Limbs)

The Eight-Fold Path

Click on any limb below to explore its traditional definition and how to apply it in your modern life.

The Yamas: Social Ethics

The Yamas are guidelines on how to treat others with kindness and respect. There are five Yamas:

  • Ahimsa (Kindness): Being gentle and avoiding harm to others and yourself.
  • Satya (Honesty): Speaking and living truthfully with care.
  • Asteya (Fairness): Not taking what does not belong to you.
  • Brahmacharya (Energy Balance): Using your energy wisely and in moderation.
  • Aparigraha (Simplicity): Living simply and letting go of greed or attachment.

The Niyamas: Personal Observances

The Niyamas are personal habits that help you build self-discipline and inner peace. The five Niyamas are:

  • Saucha (Cleanliness): Keeping your body, mind, and surroundings clean.
  • Santosha (Contentment): Being grateful and happy with what you have right now.
  • Tapas (Self-Discipline): Practicing regularly to build strength and clear obstacles.
  • Svadhyaya (Self-Reflection): Studying yourself and learning from your actions.
  • Ishvara Pranidhana (Trust): Trusting the flow of life and letting go of control.

Asana: The Physical Temple

Asanas are the physical yoga poses we practice in class. Traditionally, these poses were designed to make the body strong and comfortable, making it easier to sit quietly in meditation without feeling pain or distraction.

Pranayama: Regulating the Life Force

Pranayama means simple breathing exercises. These exercises help you control your breath, which directly calms your nervous system and lowers your stress levels.

Pratyahara: Turning Inward

Pratyahara is learning to ignore outside noise and distractions. By turning your attention inward, you can calm your mind and find quiet.

The Inner Limbs of Meditation

The final three limbs represent the inward journey toward peace:

  • Dharana (Focus): Keeping your mind on one thing at a time, like your breathing.
  • Dhyana (Meditation): Letting your mind become completely quiet and present.
  • Samadhi (Inner Peace): A deep state of joy, connection, and absolute peace.