Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga

Yoga is far more than a physical discipline — it is a rich philosophical path and a way of life. Its framework is the eightfold path of Patanjali, known as Ashtanga Yoga (ashta = eight, anga = limb). The eight limbs move a practitioner step by step from right conduct towards others, through discipline of the body and breath, to the innermost stillness of the mind.

This topic follows the textbook's own treatment of the path:

• Introduction to Ashtang Yoga — the idea of Yoga as a philosophical path.
• Yamas and Niyamas — the ethical restraints and personal observances, and the benefits of practising them. …