Basic principles of yoga

The essence of yoga: get to know the basic principles and values.

Yoga is based on a deep philosophical foundation that has been developed over thousands of years. The basic principles of yoga are anchored in ancient scriptures such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which were written around the 2nd century BC. These principles offer comprehensive guidance for a fulfilled and balanced life.

The Eight Limbs of Yoga according to Patanjali:

Yamas (Ethical Disciplines): These refer to moral behaviors towards others and include principles such as non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness (Satya), non-stealing (Asteya), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and non-possessiveness (Aparigraha).
Niyamas (Personal Disciplines): These relate to personal practice and attitude. They include purity (Saucha), contentment (Santosha), discipline (Tapas), self-study (Svadhyaya), and devotion to the divine (Ishvara Pranidhana).
Asanas (Postures): The physical exercises that strengthen and make the body flexible. Asanas are the most well-known part of yoga and help prepare the body for longer meditation sessions.
Pranayama (Breath Control): The conscious regulation of breath to control life energy (Prana) and calm the mind. Pranayama techniques are an essential part of yoga practice.
Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses): The withdrawal of the senses from external distractions to focus attention inward. This is an important step on the path to meditation.
Dharana (Concentration): The practice of focusing on a single object or thought to concentrate the mind and minimize distractions.
Dhyana (Meditation): The uninterrupted concentration on the object of meditation, leading to a state of deep inner calm and insight.
Samadhi (Enlightenment): The state of complete unity of body and mind, in which individual consciousness merges with universal consciousness. This is the ultimate goal of yoga.

Philosophical foundations:

The philosophy of yoga offers wisdom and guidelines that help to lead a harmonious and conscious life. The yamas and niyamas are ethical and personal disciplines that create a foundation for a peaceful and fulfilling life. Through the practice of asanas and pranayama, the body is strengthened and the mind calmed, while pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi promote deeper meditative states and spiritual growth.

The role of ethics in yoga:

Ethics play a central role in yoga. The yamas and niyamas serve as moral and ethical guidelines that govern how we treat others and ourselves. These principles promote compassion, integrity and self-discipline, which are essential for harmonious co-existence and personal growth.

Yoga is more than just a physical practice - it is a holistic system that aims to harmonise body, mind and spirit. The basic principles of yoga offer profound guidance on how to lead a fulfilled and balanced life.