The Ashtanga Yoga Mantra refers to a set of mantras associated with the eight limbs (ashtanga) of yoga as systematized by Maharishi Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras. The eight limbs are Yama (ethical restraints), Niyama (observances), Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption). Each limb is traditionally honored with a specific bija or name mantra, such as "Om Yamaya Namah" for Yama and "Om Niyamaya Namah" for Niyama, though these are not found in the Yoga Sutras themselves but in later tantric and ritual texts. The primary scriptural source for the eight limbs is the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (c.
400 CE), particularly Sadhana Pada (Chapter 2), where sutras 2.29–2.55 detail Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, and Pratyahara, and Vibhuti Pada (Chapter 3) covers Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi. Additionally, the Bhagavad Gita (6.11–6.47) discusses aspects of yoga practice that align with the eight limbs, though not explicitly enumerating them. The mantras are chanted to invoke the qualities of each limb and to seek mastery over the progressive stages of yoga. According to the Yoga Sutras (2.46), Asana is defined as "sthira sukham asanam" (steady and comfortable posture), and the mantra for Asana often includes the bija "Aim" or "Hrim" to stabilize the body.
Pranayama mantras may incorporate the syllable "Ham" (representing prana) and "Sah" (representing apana), as described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (2.5–2.10). The traditional purpose of chanting these mantras is to purify the mind and body, remove obstacles in practice, and deepen one's sadhana. Recommended chanting context includes early morning (Brahma Muhurta) after bathing, seated in a comfortable asana, with a japa mala of 108 beads. Each mantra may be chanted 108 times for each limb, or the entire set can be recited as a sequence.
Cautions: These mantras should be chanted with proper pronunciation and intention; they are not to be used for worldly gains but for spiritual advancement. Beginners should receive guidance from a qualified guru to avoid misuse of the subtle energies involved.
Salutations to Yama (ethical restraint).