Raja Yoga: The Classical Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It is a practice that involves physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines that aim to promote overall health and well-being. There are many different types of yoga, each with its unique focus and benefits. In this article, we will discuss Raja Yoga, which is also known as Classical Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga.

What is Raja Yoga?

Raja Yoga is a form of yoga that focuses on meditation and self-realization. The word "Raja" means king, and this form of yoga is often referred to as the "royal path" because it is considered to be the highest form of yoga. Raja Yoga is based on the teachings of the ancient sage Patanjali, who is known as the father of yoga. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, a collection of 196 aphorisms, is the foundational text of Raja Yoga.

The Eight Limbs of Raja Yoga

Raja Yoga is divided into eight limbs, or steps, each of which is designed to lead the practitioner towards self-realization. These eight limbs are:

1. Yama: The first limb is Yama, which refers to the ethical principles that guide our behaviour towards others. The five Yamas are Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy or self-control), and Aparigraha (non-greed).

2. Niyama: The second limb is Niyama, which refers to the ethical principles that guide our behaviour towards ourselves. The five Niyamas are Saucha (cleanliness), Santosha (contentment), Tapas (discipline), Svadhyaya (self-study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (surrender to a higher power).

3. Asana: The third limb is Asana, which refers to the physical postures that are practised in yoga. These postures help to improve flexibility, strength, and balance.

4. Pranayama: The fourth limb is Pranayama, which refers to the control of breath. Pranayama techniques are used to balance the flow of prana (life force energy) in the body.

5. Pratyahara: The fifth limb is Pratyahara, which refers to the withdrawal of the senses from external stimuli. This helps to cultivate inner awareness and focus.

6. Dharana: The sixth limb is Dharana, which refers to concentration. The practice of Dharana involves focusing the mind on a single object, such as a candle flame or a mantra.

7. Dhyana: The seventh limb is Dhyana, which refers to meditation. The practice of Dhyana involves deepening the concentration achieved in Dharana to reach a state of pure awareness.

8. Samadhi: The final limb is Samadhi, which refers to the state of pure consciousness that is achieved through the practice of meditation. In this state, the individual experiences a sense of oneness with the universe.

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a style of yoga that is based on the eight limbs of Raja Yoga. Ashtanga Yoga is also known as "power yoga" because it is a physically demanding practice that involves a series of flowing postures. The practice of Ashtanga Yoga is designed to build strength, flexibility, and endurance while also promoting mental focus and inner awareness.

The Ashtanga Yoga practice involves a series of six sequences of postures, each of which is linked by breath. The sequences are performed in a specific order and each posture