My knowledge of yoga provides an easy to use, practical set of tools to help me live consciously and to hold the mirror up to myself. I follow these 10 observances originally stated by Patanjali, and adapted and interpreted by many yogis today. They are called yamas and niyamas.
The yamas are guidelines for how we interact with the outer world, helping us become more aware of ourselves so we are better guided in our relationships with others. Niyama is about self-regulation – helping us maintain a positive environment in which to grow.
The Yamas
- Aparigraha: abstain from attachment to possessions.
- Brahmacharya: moderation in all senses.
- Asteya: non-covetousness, or non-stealing.
- Ahisma: non-violence, inflicting no injury or harm to others or even to one’s own self; nonviolence in thought, word, deed.
- Satya: truth in thought and word.
The Niyamas
- Svadhyaya: introspection or self-study.
- Tapas: discipline or dedication.
- Santosha: satisfaction; contentment.
- Shaucha: purity; cleanliness of body & mind; orderliness, clarity, balance.
- Ishvarapranidhana: surrender; pursuit of the Higher self or connection to Higher Power.
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