Raja
A step wise path toward enlightenment composed of eight steps.
Yamas
Societal observances
- Ahimsa: non violence
- Satya: truthfulness
- Astya: non stealing
- Brahmacharya: non lustfulness
- Aparigraha: non possessiveness
Niyamas
Personal observances
- Shuddha: cleanliness
- Santosha: contentment
- Tapas: discipline
- Swadhyaya: self study
- Iswara Pranidhana: devotion to divine
Asana
Yoga postures
In order to meditate, you need a body that is optimally functioning
Pranayama
Boosting life energy with breathing practices
Pratyahara
Sensory withdrawal to create a focused mind
Dharana
One pointedness of the mind, control over focus
Dhyana
State of meditation (no mind state)
Happens to you - not something you actually do
Samadhi
Temporary enlightenment