What Is Ashtanga Yoga? Simple, Motivational Guide to the 8 Steps

Have you ever heard the term “Ashtanga Yoga” and wondered what it really means?
You’re not alone. In fact, over 33,000 people search for “Ashtanga Yoga” every month!

At Sanatan Yog, nestled in the serene hills of Pushkar, Rajasthan, we bring ancient yogic traditions into a modern, understandable, and life-transforming experience. Whether you’re in India, the US, Europe, or anywhere in the world, this guide will help you understand Ashtanga Yoga from its original roots, in a simple and practical way.

What Is Ashtanga Yoga?

The word “Ashtanga” is Sanskrit for “Eight Limbs.”
Ashtanga Yoga is not just a physical practice—it’s a full roadmap to live a peaceful, meaningful, and spiritually fulfilling life. In classical texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, Ashtanga is described as the eightfold path to enlightenment.

The 8 Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga (Patanjali’s Path)

Limb	Sanskrit	Meaning	Example
1️	Yama	Ethics or moral code	Honesty, non-violence
2️	Niyama	Personal observances	Cleanliness, contentment
3️	Asana	Physical postures	Yoga poses like Downward Dog
4️	Pranayama	Breath control	Deep breathing or alternate nostril
5️	Pratyahara	Withdrawal of senses	Turning attention inward
6️	Dharana	Concentration	Focusing on a candle flame or breath
7️	Dhyana	Meditation	Quiet, uninterrupted awareness
8️	Samadhi	Enlightenment	Oneness with the universe

At Sanatan Yog, we teach these principles through our in-person and online classes, blending ancient knowledge with modern practice.

Steps You Can Try Starting Today

1. Begin with Yamas
   Practice truthfulness: Speak from the heart today.
2. Observe a Niyama
   Before sleeping, list three things you’re grateful for.
3. Try Gentle Asana
   Hold a comfortable seated pose (Sthirasukham Asana) for 3–5 min
4. Practice Breath
   Do 5 minutes of Ujjayi breath—breathe slowly, long, and audibly.
5. Withdraw your senses
   Close your eyes and focus on your breath.
6. Do Dharana
   Pick a candle flame or flower and gently focus on it for 2 minutes.
7. Step into Dhyana
   Allow thoughts to pass without judgment—just be present.
8. Feel a glimpse of Samadhi
   Notice moments when tension dissolves and peace arises.

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Why Ashtanga Yoga Is Popular Around the World

With over 90,000 global monthly searches, people from India, Europe, the USA, and Australia are eager to explore the deeper aspects of yoga.

Here’s why:

• Structured path: Unlike random yoga styles, Ashtanga follows a step-by-step spiritual method.
• More than fitness: It builds mental peace, discipline, and spiritual strength.
• Timeless wisdom: Based on Patanjali’s ancient teachings, still valid today.

We keep our teaching authentic and accessible, in both English and Hindi.

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Real-Life Example: How Ashtanga Helped Maria from Spain

Maria, a 35-year-old yoga teacher from Barcelona, joined our 7-night retreat.
She said:

“I had practiced yoga for 5 years, but didn’t know the depth of Ashtanga. At Sanatan Yog, I felt connected not only to my breath but to ancient wisdom. This is not just yoga, it’s soul work.”

Every small step honors Sanatan Yog’s vision—to bring authentic, transformative living into all our classes and retreats. Whether in Hindi or English, we empower seekers globally to find light within themselves, shaping a more conscious, caring world.

FAQ – People Also Ask