Describe Ashtanga yoga.
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Ashtanga Yoga, also known as the "Eight-Limbed Yoga," is a traditional and systematic approach to yoga codified by the ancient sage Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. It provides a comprehensive framework for spiritual and physical development. The eight limbs are:
Yama (Restraints): Moral and ethical guidelines for social behavior, including principles like non-violence, truthfulness, and non-greed.
Niyama (Observances): Personal disciplines and observances, such as purity, contentment, and self-study.
Asana (Posture): The practice of physical postures to develop strength, flexibility, and balance.
Pranayama (Breath Control): Techniques for breath regulation to enhance the flow of life force energy (prana) in the body.
Pratyahara (Withdrawal of Senses): Turning inward by detaching from external stimuli, fostering introspection.
Dharana (Concentration): Developing focused concentration, often using a specific point of focus or mantra.
Dhyana (Meditation): The sustained state of concentration evolves into meditation, leading to a deeper connection with the inner self.
Samadhi (Union): The ultimate goal of Ashtanga Yoga, a state of blissful union where the practitioner transcends the self and experiences oneness with the universal consciousness.
Ashtanga Yoga is characterized by a specific sequence of dynamic postures (asanas) linked with breath (vinyasa). This practice, popularized by K. Pattabhi Jois, emphasizes the synchronization of breath and movement to purify the body, calm the mind, and facilitate spiritual growth.