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2. Niyama: These are observances or practices (Dos),
The niyamas or observances (Dos) are also divided into five and complete the ethical precepts started with the yamas.. These qualities are:
Brahmacharya or moderation in all things (control of all senses). This mainly refers to celibacy
Asteya or non-stealing
Aparigraha or non-covetousness or non possessiveness
• Saucha or purity - this signifies internal and external cleanliness. • Santosha or contentment
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Tapas or austerity
Swadhyaya or study of the sacred texts
• Ishwara Pranidhana which is constantly living with an awareness of the divine Presence (surrender to God's Will)
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3. Asana: Refers to posture
4. Pranayama: refers to breath control
5. Pratyahara: refers to withdrawal of the senses to still the mind
6. Dharana: refers to concentration
7. Dhyana: refers to meditation
8. Samadhi: refers to superconscious state where oneness with the divine is experienced.
The first four limbs-yama, niyama, asana, pranayama-are considered external cleansing practices and the internal cleansing practices are -pratyahara, dharana, and dhyana.
In Jain literature, though there is no detailed mention of Ashtanga yoga (the above mentioned 8 limbs of yoga), there is however an acknowledgement of the importance of yoga.
shantidoot | messenger of peace
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