Patanjali's Eightfold Path of Yoga
Origins of Yoga
Yoga originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago. Its roots can be traced back to the Indu-Sarasvati civilization in the northern part of the Indian subcontinent.
Patanjali was a Hindu author, sage, mystic and philosopher who is believed to have lived during the 2nd century BCE. However there are discrepancies with the dates and origin as there were several authors known as Patanjali and he is also regarded as a divine figure in certain Eastern traditions.
The importance of Patanjali is the compilation of ancient Sanskrit texts. He organized and synthesized knowledge from historic traditions and made it more accessible for the general public. As a result The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali was created and offers a collection of sutras (aphorisms) on the theory and practice of yoga.
The Yoga Sutras are the most commonly referenced text on yoga and are the foundation of classical Yoga. Ashtanga is referenced by Patanjali as the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path contains 8 elements of practice that lead up to Samadhi which is the end goal of finding union with spirit and liberation (state of Self-realization).
On a more practical level, the Eightfold Path offers a framework that facilitates our journey with life. It suggests a perspective that has the power to improve our sense of peace, love and joy.
Patanjali was a Hindu author, sage, mystic and philosopher who is believed to have lived during the 2nd century BCE. However there are discrepancies with the dates and origin as there were several authors known as Patanjali and he is also regarded as a divine figure in certain Eastern traditions.
The importance of Patanjali is the compilation of ancient Sanskrit texts. He organized and synthesized knowledge from historic traditions and made it more accessible for the general public. As a result The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali was created and offers a collection of sutras (aphorisms) on the theory and practice of yoga.
The Yoga Sutras are the most commonly referenced text on yoga and are the foundation of classical Yoga. Ashtanga is referenced by Patanjali as the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path contains 8 elements of practice that lead up to Samadhi which is the end goal of finding union with spirit and liberation (state of Self-realization).
On a more practical level, the Eightfold Path offers a framework that facilitates our journey with life. It suggests a perspective that has the power to improve our sense of peace, love and joy.