The eight limbs of Hatha Yoga:

The first two limbs form the basis for ethical living --

Yamas (restraints)

Non-violence

Non-lying

Non-stealing

Non-greed

Non-sensuality (not celibacy, but being responsible and non-harming in your sexual activities)

Niyamas (observances)

Purification

Contentment

Discipline

Study

Attunement with life/spirit

Asana is the physical practice of Yoga – what we primarily focus on in the general yoga class.

Pranayama is the breathwork that goes along with asana practice. There are also pranayama practices that can be done in sitting postures. The goal of pranayama is to link with the universal life force or PRANA.

Meditation deepens your practice. Historically, asana was practiced expressly for the purpose of strengthening and preparing the body for meditation.

The remaining limbs of Dharana (concentration or one-pointedness) Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) and Samadhi (ecstasy or self-realization) are esoteric spiritual practices that are not explored in mainstream Yoga classes.