In the Vedic tradition, the ancient root of yogic philosophy, the concept of God or Supreme Reality is understood in a three-fold manner. The triple function of God, Trimurti in Sanskrit, is expressed as Brahma the creator, Vishnu the sustainer and Shiva the...
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Raja Yoga
Raja Yoga is the royal branch of yoga. It is rooted in meditation, but encompasses all forms of yoga. Also known as Ashtanga Yoga, or the eight limbs of yoga, Raja yoga is a comprehensive practice with an aim of transcending the thoughts of the mind. Raja Yoga is the...
isvarapranidhana
As we continue to explore the yogic precepts for living, we turn our focus this month to the fifth and final Niyama: Isvarapranidhana. “…if we concentrate more on the quality of our steps along the way than on the goal itself, then we also avoid being disappointed if...
svadhyaya
“Study, when it is developed to the highest degree, brings one close to higher forces that promote understanding of the most complex.” – The Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali, Sutra II.44
tapas
“By austerity, impurities of body and senses are destroyed and occult powers gained.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.43
Santosha: The Second Niyama
“By contentment, the highest happiness is attained.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.42
saucha
“When cleanliness is developed it reveals what needs to be constantly maintained and what is eternally clean. What decays is the external. What does not is deep within us.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.40
aparigraha
“When non-greed is confirmed, a thorough illumination of the how and why of one’s birth comes.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.39
brahmacharya
“By one established in continence, vigor is gained.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.38
asteya (non-stealing)
“To one established in non-stealing, all wealth comes.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.37
satya (truthfulness)
“To one established in truthfulness, actions and their results become subservient.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.36
ahimsa (non harming, compassion)
“In the presence of one firmly established in non-violence, all hostilities cease.” – The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Sutra II.35
shanti (peace)
The Language of Yoga: Shanti (santi, shantih) – Peace, Calmness
Merriam Webster: PEACE – a state of tranquility or quiet
nadi sodhana pranayama
“creates a mind-set conducive to witnessing our thoughts without participating in them.” – Alan Finger