Before explaining why I chose Ashtaanga Yoga as one of the pillars of Sujeevanam, it is important to first define what I mean when I talk of the practice of Ashtaanga Yoga. Unlike the commonly recognized system of wellness—often associated with agility-building exercises, breath control, and meditation—Ashtaanga Yoga, as outlined in Patanjali’s treatise, the Yoga Sutra, is a far more expansive and life-shaping philosophy. It is not just a set of exercises but a complete prescription for living. When I refer to Yoga here, I mean this broader discipline, stripped of mystical and esoteric layers, making it practical and accessible to anyone, at any stage of life. I will gradually expand on the ‘what’ and ‘how’ through detailed text and audio-visual material.
Now, to specifically answer the ‘why.’ To begin with, it is the most comprehensive system for physical and mental well-being that I have personally encountered. However, what makes Yoga ideal for the purposes of Sujeevanam is its entirely individual-focused nature. Unlike martial arts and many sports, it is non-violent and non-confrontational. Even when practiced in a controlled and safe environment, violent and adversarial activities tend to foster an aggressive mindset.
A person’s nature is shaped by two key elements: their ingrained primal instincts and the habits they practice repeatedly. Our bodies and minds are molded by these two forces. Yoga trains and refines both, guiding the mind toward the state that Sujeevanam envisions.
Additionally, Yoga is non-demonstrative. Despite the rise of flashy, high-profile gurus in recent times, traditional Yoga has always been a deeply personal and introspective practice. Its greatest practitioners, for thousands of years, have been individuals who remained obscure yet self-assured and evolved. The true practice of Yoga is meant to cultivate detachment from narcissism and exhibitionism.
Through its eight limbs, Yoga builds mental and physical well-being step by step. These eight limbs are arranged in a structured order, beginning with the external (aspects that are gross and easily visible) and progressing inward (subtler dimensions that require increasing levels of sensitivity, discipline, and expertise). It starts with developing resolve through Yama (restraints) and Niyama (observances), moves into physical fitness through Aasana (postures) and Praanaayaama (breath control), and then systematically refines the inner self through Pratyaahaara (withdrawal of senses), Dhaaranaa (concentration), Dhyaana (meditation), and ultimately, Samaadhi (state of detached awareness). This final stage aligns the ego with a deep awareness of the self in harmony with the world.
Finally, after thousands of years of refinement, testimony, and evolution—now backed by modern scientific validation—Yoga remains one of the safest and most well-tested methods for achieving the state that Sujeevanam aspires to cultivate.
That said, I must reiterate my position: any other practice that fulfills these objectives, or even surpasses them, may be supplemented or substituted according to one’s own version of Sujeevanam.