Practice Yoga Off the Mat – What Does It Mean in Practice? A Few Words on Ashtanga Yoga Philosophy

Kapryas
Sep 12
2 min read

For many, yoga is primarily the practice of asanas – the physical postures on the mat. But the philosophy of yoga, and Ashtanga Yoga in particular, reminds us that this is only the beginning of the journey. The true richness of the tradition lies in how we carry our practice into daily life – off the mat.

What does it mean to “practice yoga off the mat”?

According to Patañjali, yoga is “the stilling of the fluctuations of the mind” (yogas citta vritti nirodhah). This means yoga is not only about the body, but also about awareness, breath, and the way we live. It means being mindful in daily choices, treating yourself with kindness, breathing consciously, caring for relationships, and practicing gratitude. These small steps transform yoga from just a workout into a way of life.

The Eight Limbs of Yoga (yamas, niyamas, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, samadhi) show that:

yoga is mindfulness in relationships with others (for example, through ahimsa – non-violence),
caring for ourselves and our bodies (purity, contentment, moderation),
the ability to focus and find stillness in a world full of distractions.

By practicing yoga off the mat, we learn to approach ourselves and others with greater kindness, while consciously shaping our habits and values.

Why does it matter?

When yoga becomes a lifestyle rather than just a workout, we begin to experience its deepest benefits:

peace of mind,
greater inner balance,
harmony of body and spirit.

The Eight Limbs of Yoga

Yamas – ethical principles in relationships with others.
- Ahimsa – non-violence, not harming yourself or others.
- Satya – truthfulness, using words wisely.
- Asteya – non-stealing, also of time and energy.
- Brahmacharya – moderation, wise use of energy.
- Aparigraha – non-possessiveness, letting go of excess.
Niyamas – principles for the relationship with oneself.
- Śauca – purity of body and mind.
- Santoṣa – contentment and acceptance.
- Tapas – discipline, conscious effort.
- Svādhyāya – self-study, reflection, study of texts.
- Īśvarapraṇidhāna – surrender to something greater than ourselves.
Asana – stable and comfortable postures that build body awareness and health.
Pranayama – breath control, calming and energizing.
Pratyahara – withdrawal of the senses, turning attention inward.
Dharana – concentration on a single point.
Dhyana – meditation, mental stillness, deeper self-knowledge.
Samadhi – the state of unity, peace, and illumination – the true goal of yoga.

Want to learn more?

If this topic sparks your curiosity, explore my e-book “Surya Namaskar – Sun Salutation. A Beginner’s Guide to Yoga.” Inside you’ll find step-by-step practical guidance as well as an accessible introduction to yoga philosophy that transforms life both on and off the mat.

Surya Namaskar, or Sun Salutation. A Beginner Yogi’s Essential Guide

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