The Yamas and Niyamas, are the traditional Restraints and Observances of Yoga. These practices are considered necessary prerequisites before any of the other practices of Yoga should be attempted. They prepare us for the experiences that spiritual practice brings about. Firm establishment in the practices of Yama and Niyama helps ensure we are able to achieve sustained progress in our practice.
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The Yamas are ten restraints we practice to ensure that spiritual consciousness is not brought down and energy dissipated as we practice. The ten Yamas are:
1. Ahiṁsā (non-violence) Not hurting others in thought, word, or deed. 2. Satya (truth) Not lying, betraying promises, or concealing information 3. Asteya (non-stealing) Not seizing or claiming the property of others 4. Brahmacarya (Divine Conduct) Control of passions & instinctive reactions 5. Kṣamā (Patience) Overcoming irritability and intolerance 6. Dhṛti (Steadiness) Overcoming changeability and lack of dedication 7. Dayā (Compassion) Conquering insensitivity and neglectful patterns 8. Ārjava (Straightforwardness) Representing oneself openly and honestly 9. Mitāhāra (Moderate Appetite) Eating neither too much nor too little 10. Śauca (Purity) Avoiding impurity in body, mind, and speech |
The Niyamas are ten observances we practice to help elevate consciousness and prepare ourselves for spiritual realization. The ten Niyamas are:
1. ) Hrī (Remorse) Showing remorse and making amends for wrongdoing 2. Santoṣa (Contentment) Maintaining an attitude of satisfaction 3. Dāna (Giving) This means donating money to God or Guru 4. Āstikya (Faith) Unwavering belief in God, the scriptures, and Guru 5. Īśvara Pūjana (Worship of God) Ritual worship of God 6. Siddhānta Śravaṇa (Hearing the Scriptures) Hearing recitations of the scriptures and teachings of the guru 7. Mati (Cognition, Mindfulness) Paying attention and self-examination 8. Vrata (Vows) Taking and fulfilling religious vows and observances 9. Japa (Recitation) Practicing and chanting sacred hymns daily 10. Tapas (Spiritual Austerities) spiritual practice, sacrifice, and penance |
