What is "Samadhi" in yoga philosophy?

Samadhi is understood in yoga philosophy as a profound state of bliss or enlightenment that is achieved through deep meditation. This state represents the ultimate goal of yoga practices, where the individual experiences a merging of consciousness with the object of meditation, leading to a sense of oneness with all.

In the context of the eight limbs of yoga outlined in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, samadhi is considered the eighth and final stage, following the practice of ethical conduct, self-discipline, postures, breath control, sensory withdrawal, concentration, and meditation. It signifies a deep inner peace and a transcendence of the dualities of existence, pointing to an experience beyond the ordinary mind.

While physical fitness, forms of yoga practice, and chanting can each be important aspects of a yogic lifestyle, they do not encapsulate the essence of samadhi, which is fundamentally about reaching a heightened state of awareness and spiritual fulfillment.