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Reflection on the Eight Limbs of Yoga as Given in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras
4.9
Corso di 8 giorni

Reflection on the Eight Limbs of Yoga as Given in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras

Di Joanne Jackett

Inizia il Giorno 1
Cosa imparerai
This course consists of eight sessions, looking individually at each of the Eight Limbs of yoga as given in the Sutras of Patanjali. Reflection on the specific Sutras is inspired by the commentary and works of Paramahansa Yogananda, TKV Desikachar, Swami Prabhavanda and Christopher Isherwood. There is a meditation as the end of each session giving guidance in breath techniques, relaxation, mantra and affirmations. These Sutras or verses were handed down through the yoga Masters literally thousands of years ago and are just as relevant today as they were then. Fundamentally, yoga is a practice of self nurturing and gives us the means to allow transformation to happen on all levels of our being and life in general. So I want to give you a look into just what the entire system of yoga has to offer. As you will see, yoga is not only the practice of Asana or postures. Drawing on the vast teachings that are found in the entire system of yoga, is where we can look for answers to so many of those questions that life presents. Developing a friendly attitude to discipline is encouraged, knowing that ultimately it will lead to freedom. Also finding peace within and being able to live a truly calm life which no doubt is a happier life. This work takes you into a much deeper level of what yoga and meditation actually is. So I invite you to join me in exploring these wonderful teachings. There is something for everyone.

Joanne Jackett

Melbourne, Australia

With grounding in prayer and meditation from a very early age, it seemed a natural progression to pursue studies and practices that would lead to a deeper understanding of life’s big questions. Joanne has been teaching yoga, relaxation, meditation and yoga philosophy for more than forty years. She has remained steadfast in her trust and belief...
Lezione 1
Yoga as Defined by Patanjali
Welcome to the first session of our course looking at Patanjali's eight Limbs of Yoga. Today we are looking at the definition of yoga as given by Patanjali in Sutra 1:2, which together with three additional sutral from chapter 1, pave the way for moving into the reflections on the Eight Limbs of Yoga. We then move into chapter 2 where he talks of the importance of practice that asists in helping to remove obstacles and creatie clear perception. We complete the session with a guided relaxation and breath meditation including an affirmation for practicing peace.
Lezione 2
The Method - Beginning with the 5 Yamas
This session takes us into Chapter 2 and it is here that we are given 'the method'. We will name the eight limbs as a whole before taking each one sparately and in this session we will discuss the 5 Yamas, which is the first of the eight limbs. The meditation practice will focus on compassion and provides an affirmation for this purpose.
Lezione 3
The Second Limb - The Niyamas
In this session we are looking at the Niyamas, the second of the Eight Limbs. Compared with the Yamas, the Niyamas are more private and personal. We will look at how they refer to attitudes and observances we adopt toward caring for ourselves and how we choose to live. How they can build a strong will and character resulting in a flowing, harmonious, joyful life's journey with ourselves and others. Our meditation in this session will focus on patience and include an affirmation.
Lezione 4
Third and Fourth Limbs - Asana and Pranayama
In this session we are looking at the role asana and pranayama play in the Eight Limbs of Yoga. We will discuss the purpose of asana and it's far reaching benefits. Likewise we will address the role that pranayama plays in our personal and spiritual development. In the meditation practice I will guide you in a breath technique, the use of mantra and an affirmation to reduce anxiety.
Lezione 5
Fifth Limb - Pratyahara - Restraint of the Senses
As we proceed into the Eight Limbs, we look now at the fifth limb. You will understand more, how the ability to concentrate is essential as we progress from the limbs concerning our relationship with the outside world, to the limbs which are considered to focus more on an inner level. This is the first stage of moving towards meditation. Our meditation proactice is beginning to focus more deeply within now, and inner peace is awakening more and more.
Lezione 6
Sixth Limb - Dharana - Concentration
In this session we move into Chapter 3 of the Yoga Sutras to explore the sixth limb. Dharana translates as concentration. Delving into this limb, we are conscious of quite a focused level of concentration. The essential idea of Dharana is holding concentration or focus of attention in one direction. We talk about possible objects of concentration that can be taken into meditation. The meditation in this session is centered on this idea.
Lezione 7
Seventh Limb - Dhyana - Meditation
Continuing in chapter 3, Dhyana translates as Meditation. In this session I will reflect back on the previous three limbs. It is important to understand that the entire eight limbs are interconnected and play such an important role towards our realization and experience of deep meditation. Our discussion is around sutra 3:2 saying - "Meditation (dhyana) is an unbroken flow of thought toward the object of concentration". The meditation practice will consist of a breath technique, mantra and words from the Chandogya Upanishad as a focus of concentration.
Lezione 8
Eighth Limb - Samadhi - Self-realization, Oneness with the Divine
There is a phrase in Sanskrit which is Sat Chit Ananda, meaning 'ever present, ever conscious, ever new bliss'. In this session we will look at what some of the great masters have said in regard to Samadhi. Our final meditation practice holds a focus on peace and oneness.

Recensioni recenti

4.88
72
Melanie
June 1, 2025
I loved it, and will be completing it again at least once
Melissa
March 29, 2025
Wonderful introduction! Clear explanations, lovely soothing voice too! Thank you 💚
Susan
March 9, 2025
I will be revisiting this course again (and again!) Thank you for providing such clear, wise, inspirational and instructive teaching. I always feel better when hearing your voice!
Marc
January 22, 2025
Incredible course for an introduction to this infinite topic of the 8-fold path. Joanne is a master at teaching with a gentle and encouraging tone.
Tom
December 19, 2024
Joanne’s peace-filled voice creates the feeling beyond words that IS yoga.
Nancy
November 8, 2024
Third time through and I continue to learn so much. This course is great for any stage of meditation to enhance what you already know and are practicing. Thanks so much.
Theresa
June 29, 2024
I found great comfort and gentleness in Joanne's voice and delivery of the materials. I love that each day ended with a meditation. This course serves beautifully as an introduction to the 8 limbs of Yoga to those who may be new to the concepts or as a refresher/clarifier for those already familiar with them. Thank you Joanne for this very clear, easy to follow course!
Kathie
May 5, 2024
I found this course to be so calming and peaceful. I looked forward to each lesson and know that I will repeat it again and again as there is so much substance to it. I found your voice and accent soothing as well. 🙏
Bob
April 6, 2024
Thank you so much for you kindness and patience. Your voice and words are affirming and wise and delightful.
Pip
March 13, 2024
A beautifully put together course on the eight limbs of yoga . Joanne leads us gently in a open non judgmental way and with her soft soothing voice. Each session is concluded with a short meditation cementing the knowledge she has just imparted. I really enjoyed doing this course and would recommend to anyone on the path of finding inner peace. Thankyou Joanne.🙏
Arlene
February 29, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this course. One of my favorites that I will listen to again and again. Everything is explained so well and in such a lovely calming manner.
Gail
August 26, 2023
This course is beautifully presented by Joanne with her soothing voice and huge depth of knowledge and understanding. It is well worth listening to, and more importantly, practising. There is a meditation at the end of each session which helps to put the teaching into practice. I highly recommend this course to deepen your meditation and peace.
Elin
August 24, 2023
What a lovely course! It was gentle, yet contained so much information. I loved it, and the meditations were beautiful and took me to a deep, peaceful place. Thank you!
Lisa
March 17, 2023
Excellent course, indepth knowledge but given in a way that is relatable to today's world! Very enjoyable and would highly recommend! Thank you for sharing your gift 🙏💜
Anne
November 7, 2022
Very comprehensive guide to Pantanjulis teaching. Loved the prayer at the end of the course. Will be using that as part of my daily practice.

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