The Yogic Encyclopedia

Ashtanga Yoga (literally “eight-limbed yoga”) is a system developed by the ancient yogic sage Patanjali oulined in his yoga sutras. It consists of eight progressive stages on the path to Self-realization.

Asana meaning: Asana (the third “limb” of Ashtanga Yoga outlined by the sage Patanjali) means to be seated in a firm, pleasant, and relaxed position. Paramhansa Yogananda said that this means to keep the spine straight and the body relaxed. It is also a term commonly used to refer to a hatha yoga postures. Yoga postures, while having many great … Read More

Bliss or Divine Joy; also the name of a worldwide movement based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda and founded by Swami Kriyananda.

Non-harmfulness (harmlessness). To not wish harm to any living creature—not even to any lifeless object.

Ego, or ego-consciousness. The root cause of self-awareness.

A statement of truth which one aspires to absorb into his life.