The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali

... lies the definition of yoga as a state of union between body, mind and consciousness. Patanjali introduces the system of Ashtanga Yoga, or the “eight-limbed path”, which offers both a practical and philosophical framework for living in a balanced and conscious way. 

​

The Nature of Suffering

According to Patanjali, human suffering arises from five fundamental afflictions known as the kleshas:

• Ignorance (avidya) – misunderstanding our true nature

• Ego (asmita) – identification with the false self

• Attachment (raga) – dependence on pleasure

• Aversion (dvesha) – rejection of discomfort

• Fear (abhinivesha) – fear of loss or death

In addition, there are the “poisons of the mind” (shadripu), which cloud our perception:

• Desire

• Anger

• Greed

• Delusion

• Pride

• Jealousy

Through consistent practice, these patterns can gradually settle, allowing greater clarity, peace and awareness to emerge.

​

The Eight Limbs of Yoga (Ashtanga)

Patanjali describes a path composed of eight interconnected and complementary limbs:

​

1. Yama – Ethical Guidelines

• Ahimsa – non-violence

• Satya – truthfulness

• Asteya – non-stealing

• Brahmacharya – responsible use of energy

• Aparigraha – non-attachment

​

2. Niyama – Personal Observances

Our relationship with ourselves:

• Saucha – purity of body and mind

• Santosha – contentment

• Tapas – discipline and transformation

• Svadhyaya – self-study

• Ishvara Pranidhana – surrender to a higher consciousness

 

3. Asana – Posture

Physical practice that purifies, strengthens and prepares the body and mind.

 

4. Pranayama – Breath

Regulation and expansion of the breath to harmonise energy.

 

5. Pratyahara – Withdrawal of the Senses

Turning inward by withdrawing from external stimuli.

 

6. Dharana – Concentration

Focusing the mind on a single point.

 

7. Dhyana – Meditation

A steady, uninterrupted flow of attention.

 

8. Samadhi – Absorption

A state of unity in which the sense of individual self dissolves into pure awareness.

​

A Holistic Path

These eight limbs are not separate steps but interdependent practices that support one another. In the Ashtanga yoga tradition, the practice of postures (asana) forms a strong foundation for developing breath, discipline and ethical awareness. Over time, the more internal aspects—concentration, meditation and samadhi—naturally begin to unfold.

​

The Aim of Yoga

The ultimate aim of Patanjali’s teachings is liberation (kaivalya): freedom from suffering and from the illusions (maya) created by the fluctuations of the mind (prakriti). Through sincere and consistent practice, we reconnect with our true essence: pure consciousness (purusha).