Ashtangas

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A system of yoga emphasizing eight limbs or paths leading to spiritual development and self-discipline
2. A form of yoga characterized by a progressive series of postures linked with breath for physical and mental harmony
3. A practice that integrates physical postures, breath control, and meditation to cultivate balance and inner peace

Etymology: "Ashtangas" is the plural of "ashtanga," the Sanskrit term that gives a modern yoga style its name. The Sanskrit "aṣṭāṅga" is built from "aṣṭa," meaning "eight," and "aṅga," meaning "limb" or "part," so the literal sense is "having eight limbs." The name points to the eight stages laid out in Patanjali's classical yoga framework, which runs from ethical restraints and observances through breath control to meditative absorption. The modern practice took its name from that framework. The "ashtanga" in today's style refers to those eight limbs, and the plural form here simply counts the separate styles or sequences that carry the name. The word therefore names an ancient eight-part path before it names any particular set of postures.

Synonyms: eight limbs, eightfold path