Traditionally in our classes we practice asana, the yoga postures, and pranayama, breathing or rather breath control. But these two disciplines form part of a great whole that is known as the 8 Limbs of Yoga. In the "Yoga Sutras" Patanjali explains yoga as an 8 limbed tree, with the highest branch being Samadhi, or ultimate bliss. At the foundation of the tree are the yamasa and niyamas which refer to the moral and ethical code of conduct. One has to begin at the foundation in order to move upwards.

These eight steps basically act as guidelines on how to live a meaningful and purposeful life. They serve as a prescription for moral and ethical conduct and self-discipline; they direct attention toward one's health; and they help us to acknowledge the spiritual aspects of our nature.

Yoga is more than the practice of asana, or physical postures. Living yoga means integrating the principles of yoga into your thoughts, words and actions; it means taking yoga beyond your mat.