Ashtanga Yoga: Analyzing the Limbs

The question asks to identify the true statements regarding the limbs of Ashtanga Yoga as described in texts like Patanjali's Yoga Sutras.

Eight Limbs of Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga consists of eight distinct limbs or stages:

• 1. Yama: Ethical restraints (e.g., non-violence, truthfulness)
• 2. Niyama: Observances (e.g., purity, contentment)
• 3. Asana: Posture
• 4. Pranayama: Breath control
• 5. Pratyahara: Sense withdrawal
• 6. Dharana: Concentration
• 7. Dhyana: Meditation
• 8. Samadhi: Absorption/Enlightenment

Statement Analysis

Statement A: Dharana is the last limb/stage

Dharana is the sixth limb. The eighth and final limb is Samadhi. Therefore, statement A is incorrect.

Statement B: The first five limbs/stages are preparatory stage

The first five limbs (Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara) are known as the external limbs (Bahiranga) and serve as the preparatory stages for deeper internal practices. Therefore, statement B is correct.

Statement C: The practice of last three stages reduces cognitive distraction

The last three limbs – Dharana (Concentration), Dhyana (Meditation), and Samadhi (Absorption) – involve intense mental focus and withdrawal from external stimuli. This practice directly aims to quiet the mind and reduce cognitive distractions. Therefore, statement C is correct.

Statement D: Yama refers to sensory withdrawal

Yama refers to ethical restraints and moral disciplines. Pratyahara is the limb that refers specifically to sensory withdrawal. Therefore, statement D is incorrect.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, statements B and C are true regarding the Ashtanga Yoga limbs.