Yoga Philosophy, History, and Ethics
This domain tests how well you can place yoga's classical texts, ethical precepts, and modern professional conduct in context rather than recite slogans. Expect questions that distinguish Patanjali's eight limbs, the yamas and niyamas, and the historical shift from hatha to modern postural yoga.
Classical anchors
- Yoga Sutras 1.2 defines yoga as stilling the fluctuations of the mind; 2.46 says the posture should be steady and comfortable.
- The eight limbs are yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, samadhi.
- The five yamas are ahimsa, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, aparigraha; the five niyamas are saucha, santosha, tapas, svadhyaya, ishvara pranidhana.
- Hatha texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika emphasize purification, asana, pranayama, bandhas, mudras, and samadhi; they are not modern fitness manuals.
Ethics in practice
Ahimsa informs consent, non-harmful adjustments, and accessible sequencing. Satya means accurate marketing and scope-of-practice honesty. Asteya and aparigraha challenge proprietary overreach and pressure to buy. Brahmacharya is often taught as moderation and healthy boundaries.
Worked example
A student asks whether a teacher can diagnose a shoulder injury. The correct response applies ahimsa and satya: do not diagnose; offer a modification, suggest a licensed clinician, and document the referral. Reasoning: diagnosis exceeds yoga-teacher scope and risks harm.
Traps
Do not reduce the yamas to a checklist or claim one text is the sole authority. Do not equate Patanjali's asana with modern postural practice; the Sutras say little about detailed alignment. Avoid citing a historical claim you cannot source.