Yoga Beyond Asanas: What Patanjali Really Meant

When we hear the word Yoga, most people think of difficult poses and flexible bodies. But according to Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra, yoga is much more than just asanas.

Patanjali defines yoga as:

“योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः” (Yogaḥ Citta Vṛtti Nirodhaḥ)
— Yoga is the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind. (Yoga Sutra 1.2)

This means yoga is about calming the mind, not just twisting the body.

What Patanjali Meant:

• Asana (posture) is just one part.
• Yoga is a complete path of eight limbs (Ashtanga Yoga):
  1. Yama (moral discipline)
  2. Niyama (self-discipline)
  3. Asana (posture)
  4. Pranayama (breath control)
  5. Pratyahara (withdrawal of senses)
  6. Dharana (concentration)
  7. Dhyana (meditation)
  8. Samadhi (union / bliss)

Key Takeaway

Yoga is not about “how far you bend” but “how calm you become.” Asanas prepare the body, but the real yoga begins when the mind is steady.

Closing Thought

Start small—try 5 minutes of breath awareness or meditation today. Slowly, you’ll realize that yoga is a journey inward, not just a workout.

✨ Want to explore yoga as a lifestyle, not just exercise? Join my online sessions and begin your journey with Soul Kaya.

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