The Eight Angas (parts) of Asthanga Yoga

Physical exercises, which are otherwise called as 'Yogasans' are also prescribed as a part in Yoga. As the exercises help in maintaining physical health, they are necessary for yoga practitioners. The main aim of yoga is to develop the consciousness. But unless the physical body is in a healthy condition, development of the consciousness is not possible. Therefore, maintenance of the physical body comes first. Patanjali also, in the system of 'Ashtanga Yoga' emphasizes the need of maintaining the body healthy.

Then only, relationship between the body and the soul will be harmonious. The first four 'Angas' that is, Yama, Niyama, Asana and Pranayama help to maintain the relationship between the body and the soul.

In essence, they keep the body and mind in healthy condition. The next four 'Angas', that is Prathahara, Dharana, Dhyana and Samadhi are to maintain the relationship between the soul and the Universal Being and elevate the consciousness, step by step, to achive the goal of self-realization.

Now you understand the real meaning and the benefits of yoga. Yoga is indispensable, in the modern age, than at any time before, since stresses and strains are on the increase and disquiet and tensions follow as a consequence.

aspects. Yoga provides all the benefits in both the fields. Therefore yoga is a well balanced and perfect process for success and peace in life.

12. According to age and intellectual perfection, Yoga is classified into four stages. They are (i) Bhakthi Yoga, (ii) Karma Yoga, (iii) Raja Yoga and (iv) Gnana Yoga. For liberation of the soul, Gnana yoga is needed. But the development of the soul is to be attained through the body. So, to maintain the body in good condition the Karma Yoga is inevitable.

13. Following the teachings of realized souls with due humility and faith is Bhakthi Yoga and is a part process of Karma Yoga. with sincerity, two impurities namely, the undue attachment with the wordly things and the impressions of the sins can be annihilated.

As a result, the screen of Ego will become reduced and finally the goal of self-realization through Raja Yoga can be attained. But Karma Yoga should be performed only under the guidance and instructions of Gnana Yogis.

14. Gnana Yoga is a process by which all the three impurities Anava, Karma and Maya can be neutralized to their end. It is a direct method of divinishing the soul. This process is possible only for intellectuals. The process of approach towards Gnana Yoga is Raja Yoga. The process of Raja Yoga is to turn the soul from the forgetful state to the state of awareness.

As a king rules over his subjects, the soul administers the senses. Instead of the soul being the slave to the senses, the senses become submissive to the soul. That is, the soul becomes the king. Therefore, this process of approach and attainment is called 'Raja Yoga'.