Eightfold Path to Yoga

The Yoga system as outlined by Patanjali is known as the Eightfold Path.

1. Yama

2. Niyama

Yama and Niyama require observance of ten negative and positive moralities-avoidance of injury to others, untruthfulness, stealing, incontinence, gift receiving (which brings obligations) and purity og body and mind, contentment, self-discipline, study of scriptures and devotion to God.

3. Asana (right posture): The spinal column must be held straight, and the body firm in a comfortable position.

4. Pranayama: control of prana, subtle life currents.

5. Pratyahara: withdrawal of senses from external objects.

The last steps are forms of yoga proper:

6. Dharana: concentration, holding the mind to one thought.

7. Dhyana: Meditation

8. Samadhi: Superconscious perception.

This Eightfold Path of Yoga, leads one to the final goal of Kaivalya (Absoluteness) or realization of the Truth beyond all intellectual apprehension.