Yama and Niyama
The Ethical Foundations of Yoga.
Yoga, a spiritual discipline rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, is often seen as a system of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation. However, the true essence of yoga lies beyond the asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control). The ultimate goal of yoga is spiritual enlightenment and self-realization, however the practices and teachings of yoga are as just as beneficial when applied to our daily lives. Central to this system are the Yamas and Niyamas, the first two limbs of Patanjali’s Eight-Limbed Yoga. These ethical guidelines serve as a foundation for personal growth, guiding practitioners towards a life of balance, harmony, and fulfilment.
I. Yama: Ethical Restraints
The Yamas are the five ethical restraints or moral disciplines that regulate our interactions with others and the world around us. They focus on cultivating virtuous behaviour, promoting respect for others, and creating the premise for spiritual evolution. The five Yamas are:
Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
Ahimsa is the practice of non-violence in thought, speech, and action. It is perhaps the most fundamental of all the Yamas and encourages practitioners to act with kindness, compassion, and empathy toward all beings. Ahimsa transcends physical violence; it also refers to harmful thoughts, words, and judgments. By cultivating non-violence, we can create a more peaceful and harmonious environment. Ahimsa calls on us to acknowledge the interconnectedness of all living beings and treat each one with respect and care.
The application of Ahimsa is not always easy, especially in moments of anger or frustration. Yet, cultivating patience, understanding, and forgiveness can help us practice this principle in everyday life. When we let go of negative emotions like anger or resentment, we create space for healing and compassion to thrive.
Satya (Truthfulness)
Satya refers to truthfulness and honesty in all aspects of life. It encourages us to speak and act in alignment with our highest truth, which is both internal and universal. Satya involves being truthful with oneself and others, while also recognizing that personal truth is dynamic and can vary based on perception and context.
In the practice of Satya, it is important to balance honesty with kindness. Sometimes, the truth can be harsh, and it is essential to discern when it is appropriate to speak and when silence may be the more compassionate approach. This allows us to build trust and create more authentic connections with others.
Asteya (Non-Stealing)
Asteya is the practice of non-stealing, not only in the material sense but also in intellectual, emotional, and energetic terms. It emphasizes respect for others' possessions, time, and energy. Asteya encourages us to refrain from taking what is not freely given, whether it is material goods or intangible resources like ideas or attention.
This principle also calls on us to let go of greed and attachment to material possessions. When we practice Asteya, we begin to appreciate the abundance that already exists in our lives and learn to share and give without expectation.
Brahmacharya (Celibacy or Moderation)
Brahmacharya traditionally refers to celibacy or the complete control of the creative potential (sexual energy). However, in a broader sense, it is the practice of moderation and the wise use of energy in all aspects of life. Brahmacharya encourages us to direct our energy towards beneficial actions, spiritual growth and avoid excessive indulgence in sensory pleasures or distractions.
In the modern context, Brahmacharya can be understood as living in harmony and balance with ourselves and our surroundings. It involves recognizing the creative potential in every action and thought and using it in ways that support personal growth, health, and well-being. By cultivating moderation, we avoid the depletion of energy through overconsumption or addiction to sensory pleasures, which can lead to imbalance and distraction from the deeper fulfilment of our lives.
Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness)
Aparigraha is the practice of non-possessiveness and non-attachment. It encourages us to let go of the desire to accumulate material possessions and to release attachment to outcomes, situations, and people. Aparigraha teaches that true contentment comes not from external possessions but from inner peace and self-sufficiency.
This principle also applies to intellectual and emotional attachments, where we may cling to past experiences, expectations, or desires. By letting go of attachment, we free ourselves from the constant craving and grasping that lead to suffering. Practicing Aparigraha helps us live with a sense of abundance, accepting what is, and cultivating gratitude for the present moment.
II. Niyama: Ethical Observances
The Niyamas are the five personal observances or ethical practices that guide how we relate to ourselves. These practices are focused on purity, contentment, self-discipline, study and devotion. The five Niyamas are:
Saucha (Purity)
Saucha refers to purity, both of the body and mind. It involves maintaining cleanliness in our physical environment, as well as purifying our thoughts and emotions. Saucha encourages practitioners to cultivate a sense of inner and outer cleanliness through practices like bathing, fasting, and eating nutritious food.
On a deeper level, Saucha also points to the purification of the consciousness by letting go of negative thoughts, distractions, and attachments. This process of purification allows us to approach life with clarity, focus, and inner peace.
Santosha (Contentment)
Santosha means contentment or acceptance of the present moment. It is the practice of finding satisfaction and peace within ourselves, regardless of external circumstances. Santosha teaches that happiness does not depend on external conditions but arises from inner peace and acceptance.
The practice of Santosha encourages gratitude and humility, allowing us to appreciate what we have rather than constantly striving for more. By cultivating contentment, we reduce the grip of desire and dissatisfaction that often leads to frustration and stress.
Tapas (Discipline or Austerity)
Tapas refers to self-discipline, austerity, and the willingness to endure discomfort for the sake of personal growth. It involves developing the inner strength and determination to overcome obstacles, both physical and emotional, in pursuit of our growth and evolution. Tapas is the fire that fuels our aspiration and drives us to persist in our practice and beneficial actions, even when it is challenging.
In a broader sense, Tapas encourages the cultivation of habits that lead to health, vitality, and focus. This may include consistent meditation, proper diet, regular exercise, asana or breathwork practices and conscious effort in overcoming negative tendencies. Tapas builds resilience and allows us to transform obstacles into opportunities for growth.
Svadhyaya (Self-Study or Study of Sacred Texts)
Svadhyaya is the practice of self-study, introspection, and the study of sacred texts. This encourages us to engage in ongoing learning, reflection, and self-examination in order to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Svadhyaya can take many forms, such as reading spiritual texts, journaling, meditation, or seeking guidance from a teacher or mentor. It invites us to explore our inner world, understand our patterns of thought and behaviour, and discover the deeper truths of existence in a process of ongoing personal development.
Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender to the Divine)
Ishvara Pranidhana is the practice of surrendering to a higher power or the Creator. It involves offering all actions, thoughts, and intentions to the supreme will, recognizing that we are part of a greater cosmic order. Ishvara Pranidhana encourages humility, devotion, and trust in the godly guidance that leads to liberation.
This invites us to release the ego and let go of control, allowing the flow of life to unfold naturally. It encourages faith and surrender in the universe, knowing that by aligning with the supreme being, we can transcend the limitations of the individual self and experience greater peace, connection and fulfilment in life.
III. The Interconnection of Yama and Niyama
The practices of Yama and Niyama are not separate but interrelated. While the Yamas guide our external actions and behaviour toward others, the Niyamas help refine our inner world, creating harmony within ourselves. Together, they form a comprehensive ethical system that supports both personal and social harmony.
By practicing Yama and Niyama, we cultivate a sense of moral responsibility, self-discipline, and soulfulness, which forms the foundation for a happy and fulfilling life and spiritual evolution. These principles not only help us live more ethically but also assist in clearing the obstacles to spiritual growth, such as selfishness, ignorance, and attachment.
Conclusion
Yama and Niyama are integral to the yogic path, and also our everyday lives, offering a framework for a life that is aligned with higher principles. By incorporating these ethical guidelines into our daily lives, we can cultivate peace, compassion, and self-awareness. These practices not only benefit the individual but also contribute to the well-being of the collective, helping to create a more harmonious and interconnected world. Practicing Yama and Niyama is a lifelong journey, one that encourages us to live with integrity, humility, and devotion to a higher purpose.
-Shunyata team
Written by: Benedict Newton
