Yamas and Niyamas

Yamas and Niyamas
by Annie Barrett

The yamas and niyamas form the first two limbs of the 8 Limbs of Classical Yoga (Ashtanga Yoga) : restraints (yamas), observances (niyamas), physical postures (asana), breathing practices (pranayama), withdrawal of the senses (pratyahara), concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana), and aborption with the Absolute (samadhi).

The yamas and niyamas are ten principles or core values for living a wise and joy-filled life.

“Yamas and Niyamas are emphatic descriptions of what we are  when we are connected to our source…. our fundamental nature is compassionate, generous, honest and peaceful”  writes Donna Farhi.  Stephen Cope says the yamas and niyamas teach us “about avoiding behaviors that produce suffering and difficulty and embracing those that lead to states of happiness.”

Each yoga class in the next few months will focus on one of the yamas and niyamas.  Below is a short description of each.  Together we’ll become aware of and explore how each of these principles can be observed and practiced on and off the mat with the goal of living a life of greater authenticity, purpose, and joy. 

Yamas - Wise characteristics for living in the world
Ahimsa – Non-harming.  Have compassion for all living things.
Satya – Truthfulness, Make a commitment to the truth in words and actions.
Asteya – Non-stealing.  Don’t take anything that is not freely given.
Bramacharya – Energy moderation.  Use energy wisely and avoid by ruled by your urges.
Aparigraha – Non-grasping.  You can’t hold on to something or someone and be free at the same time.
 
Niyamas – Qualities for living a soulful life
Saucha- Purity.  Bring cleanliness and order to body, mind and environment.
Santosha – Contentment.  Find satisfaction and equanimity with the present moment.
Tapas – Right Effort, burning enthusiasm. This is disciplined and directed use of one’s energy.
Svadhyaya – Self Study.  Take time for self-contemplation and study of scriptures and wise texts.
Ishavara Pranidhana – Dedication to the highest.  Make every action an offering.
 

Resources:
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, various translations
Yoga, Mind, Body and Spirit by Donna Farhi
Living Your Yoga by Judith Lasater
“Path to Happiness” by Hillari Dowdle, Yoga Journal, Jan. 2009

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