The āśrama system is applied differentially by varṇa: brāhmaṇas may adopt all four, kṣatriyas three, vaiśyas and śūdras fewer. The requirement to study the Veda (adhītya vedam) with its aṅgas and upāṅgas — auxiliary disciplines — applies variably. This hierarchical access reflects the historical social context while simultaneously affirming that yoga’s essential practices are available across varṇas.