What is Raja Yoga?

Posted on July 10, 2008 in Latest News

Raja Yoga was compiled by Sage Patanjali Maharishi. It consists of a series of steps or disciplines called Eight Limbs that purify the our body and mind leading us to enlightenment.

1. Yamas – Yamas mean Restraints or Don’ts that need to be practiced in word, thought and deed. They are – Satyam (truthfulness), Ahimsa(non-violence), Brahmacharya(control of all senses), Asteya (non-stealing) and Aparigraha(non-covetousness).
2. Niyamas – Niyamas mean Observances or Do’s. These also need to be practiced in word, thought and deed. Santosha (contentment), Saucha (internal and external cleanliness), Tapas (austerity), Swadhyaya (study of religious texts) and Ishwara Pranidhana (surrender to God’s will).
3. Asanas - The third limb of Raja Yoga is Asanas. These Asanas are nothing special, but the ones that you normally do.
4. Pranayama – Pranayama is the technique of regulating your breath. The Asanas and Pranayama are also known as Hatha Yoga which is a sub-division of Raja Yoga.
5. Pratyahara – Pratyahar is the fifth limb of the Raja Yoga. It is the practice of withdrawal of the senses used to still the mind.
6. Dharana – Dharana is the sixth limb that emphasizes on concentration. This is the first of the last three steps of the 8 limbs. These mainly focus on the internal practice of Raja Yoga.
7. Dhyana – Dhyana, the seventh limb of Raja Yoga deals with meditation. Meditation is the practice of being absorbed in pure and profound thought. When you master Dhyana you can proceed to the last limb.
8. Samadhi – The last limb of the Raja Yoga is Samadhi or the super conscious state. It is the deepest and the highest state of consciousness when the body and mind of the Yogi transcend with God.

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