The tree of yoga Yoga has seven aspects: yama: non-violence, truthfulness, freedom from avarice, control of sensual pleasure, freedom from covertousness beyond one's needs (control of organs of action) niyama: cleanliness, contentment, ardour, self-study, self-surrender (control of organs of perception) asana: postures -- physical control pranayama: breathing control pratyahara: inward journey of the senses dharana: concentration, meditation samadhi: unity with the universal spirit. These aspects are all inextricably interlinked as are the roots, trunk, branches, sap, leaves and flowers of a tree. You may not be perfect in truthfulness, cleanliness or self-surrender. You may not be perfect in posture! Nevertheless, practicing the postures brings freedom from possessiveness and greed and brings a sense of self surrender. Return to Yoga