Philosophy of Yoga: Yamas & Niyamas

Yamas and Niyamas are ethical guidelines and moral principles outlined in the ancient Indian philosophical system of Yoga, particularly in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. They form the first two limbs of the eightfold path of Yoga, providing a framework for ethical and spiritual conduct. Here’s a brief overview of each:

Yamas:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): This principle emphasizes non-violence in thought, word, and action towards oneself and others. Satya (Truthfulness): Being truthful in speech, thought, and action, avoiding falsehood and deception. Asteya (Non-stealing): Refraining from stealing, whether it's physical objects, ideas, or others' time and energy. Brahmacharya (Moderation): Practicing moderation and balance in all aspects of life, including moderation in sensual pleasures and sexual conduct. Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Letting go of greed, possessiveness, and the desire for unnecessary material possessions. Niyamas:

Saucha (Purity/Cleanliness): Purifying the body and mind through cleanliness, both externally and internally. Santosha (Contentment): Cultivating contentment and acceptance of what one already has, rather than constantly seeking more. Tapas (Discipline/Austerity): Developing self-discipline, perseverance, and austerity to achieve personal and spiritual goals. Svadhyaya (Self-study): Engaging in self-reflection, self-study, and study of spiritual texts to gain deeper knowledge of oneself and the universe. Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender to the Divine): Surrendering to a higher power, whatever that may mean for each individual, and cultivating trust in the divine order. These guidelines are not meant to be restrictive but rather supportive of a yogic lifestyle that promotes inner peace, ethical behaviour, and spiritual growth. Practicing the yamas and niyamas helps individuals develop greater self-awareness, mindfulness, and harmony in their interactions with others and the world around them.

Think of this as a yoga book club! We will discuss one Yama or Niyama per week as a group. The discussion will be 1hr in length and is open to all people in our community for free.

Resources;

The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice by Deborah Adele

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6845606-the-yamas-niyamas

The Heart of Yoga: Developing a Personal Practice

T.K.V. Desikachar

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56303.The_Heart_of_Yoga

Patanjali Yoga Sutras

Ravi Shankar Patañjali

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11833311-patanjali-yoga-sutras

We meet Thursdays 5-6pm;

July

11 - Ahimsa (Non-violence)

18 - Satya (Truthfulness)

25 - Asteya (Non-stealing)

August

1 - Brahmacharya (Moderation)

8 - Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness)

15 - Saucha (Purity/Cleanliness)

22 - Santosha (Contentment)

29 - Tapas (Discipline/Austerity)

September

5 - Svadhyaya (Self-study)

12 - Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender to the Divine)