The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline the eight limbs, or angas, of Yoga. These limbs provide a progressive path towards self-realization.
Yoga Sutra Anga for Concentration
The specific limb (anga) that signifies concentration according to the Yoga Sutras is Dharana.
- Dharana is the sixth limb and is defined as the focusing of the mind onto a single point or object. It is the initial stage of intense mental focus.
Understanding Other Yoga Angas
To clarify why Dharana is the correct answer, let's briefly look at the related concepts:
- Pranayam: The fourth limb, focusing on breath control and regulation.
- Dhyana: The seventh limb, representing meditation or sustained, uninterrupted concentration. It follows Dharana.
- Samadhi: The eighth and final limb, signifying a state of profound absorption or union, achieved after Dhyana.
Therefore, Dharana is theanga directly associated with the practice of concentration.
Important Questions from Yoga
Name the first person to have given the basic rules and concept of Yoga.
Arrange the following niyama (five observations) in the correct sequence-
(A) Svādhyāya
(B) Īśvarpranidhāna
(C) Tapas
(D) Śauca
_________steps of yoga discipline are recommended to attain physical, moral, mental and spiritual perfection.
Which of the following are true with reference to Ashtanga Yagasutra ?
A. Dharana is the last limb/stage
B. The first five limbs/stages are preparatory stage
C. The practice of last three stages reduces cognitive distraction
D. Yama refers to sensory withdrawal
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :
- Arrange the following literary works on different facets of ‘Yoga’ in chronological order.
A. ‘Anashshakti Yoga’ by Mahatma Gandhi
B. ‘Gitarahasya’ by B.G. Tilak
C. ‘Gatha’ by Tukaram
D. ‘Upadesha’ by Raman Maharishi
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
