In the context of Ashtanga Yoga, as delineated by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, Yama and Niyama represent the first two limbs of the eightfold path. These guidelines serve as fundamental ethical precepts that establish a solid foundation for spiritual development. Emphasising morality and ethics, Yama and Niyama are essential for cultivating a balanced and harmonious mind, which is vital for effective meditation and deeper states of consciousness.
Yama: Restraints (Do Nots)
Yama refers to ethical standards and principles that govern our interactions with others and the external world. Practicing Yama allows us to cultivate a sense of responsibility and integrity, developing a moral compass that guides our actions. The five main Yamas are:
1. Ahimsa (Non-violence or Non-harming):
– Ahimsa is often associated with the concept of non-violence, famously promoted by Mahatma Gandhi during India’s struggle for independence. However, its deeper essence lies in the idea of non-harming or minimal harm. Every action we take can potentially cause some harm; thus, the key is to evaluate whether our actions result in more good than harm.
– For example, breathing inherently causes harm to microscopic organisms, yet our life and the life of larger beings carry greater value. The idea here is that a compassionate consideration of the overall impact of our actions helps us practice Ahimsa.
– Actions like self-defence are nuanced situations where the intention can still align with Ahimsa, as they arise from a necessity to protect oneself or others. Similarly, a parent might use tough love or harsh language to guide their child, aiming for a long-term benefit even if the immediate impact stings.
Questions for Reflection:
Is the principle of Ahimsa applicable in the habit of eating meat? This invokes complex ethical discussions about food consumption, animal rights, and necessity.
Does Ahimsa allow for abortion? This brings forth various viewpoints based on individual beliefs, the context of the pregnancy, health considerations, and moral judgments.
2. Satya (Truthfulness):
– Traditional interpretations define Satya as truthfulness; however, it extends beyond mere honesty to encompass good intentions and benevolence in our speech and writing. Satya calls for integrity in our interactions, ensuring that our communications reflect our genuine intentions.
– A classic dilemma arises when we face a villain posing a question; if we provide misleading information out of fear, we might technically betray Satya. Still, the motivation behind our words can redefine our commitment to truthfulness, especially if it’s aimed at protecting someone.
Questions for Reflection:
Is it a compromise of Satya to maintain one’s reputation by telling a white lie to save face? This situation raises critical inquiries about the cost of truth versus the impact of a lie on self-perception.
3. Asteya (Non-stealing):
– Asteya pertains to not stealing and extends to not taking possession of other people’s goods, whether materially or immaterially. It is about following your conscience in all situations.
– For example, if you board a train late and no one asks for your ticket throughout the journey, an ethical practice according to Asteya would be to buy a ticket and then shred it to demonstrate the intention of honesty, instead of merely benefiting from omission.
– If a cashier gives you too much change and you keep it, your conscience is likely to trouble you; returning the overpayment solidifies your commitment to non-stealing and fosters a sense of integrity.
Question for Reflection:
What if we think about stealing but do not commit the act—does that still have ethical implications? This question prompts exploration into the motivations and intentions behind our thoughts and actions.
4. Aparigraha (Non-attachment or Non-greed):
– Aparigraha teaches us not to indulge in excessive material possessions or luxury. It is a relative idea; having what is necessary for a balanced life is acceptable, but excessive accumulation may violate this tenet.
– For instance, owning many cars or excessive properties without necessity can be seen as going against Aparigraha. Each situation should examine the need versus the excess: if the societal average is to have one or two cars, owning more than needed for your personal circumstances may reflect attachment.
Question for Reflection:
If all the middle class in your area only has bicycles, and you possess a car, under what circumstances does this reflect Aparigraha? This question allows for an analysis of societal norms and individual needs in relation to attachment.
5. Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity or the Pursuit of Infinite Consciousness):
– Brahmacharya is often misconstrued as merely celibacy, perpetuated through various cultural narratives, particularly by monks in India. The term actually conveys the pursuit of infinite consciousness (Brahma) and acting in accordance with the awareness that all things are divine.
– Engaging in Brahmacharya involves acting toward the feeling of divine consciousness. Recognizing the divinity in everyone and everything around you reflects adherence to this principle. It emphasizes a holistic, respectful, and loving approach to all beings, rather than restricting oneself only from sexual activity or associations.
– The essence of Brahmacharya lies in cultivating a perspective that sees the divine in every interaction and moment—transforming all activities into conscious practices of devotion and service.
Question for Reflection:
How do you identify or cultivate the Divine in your interactions with others especially if they wrong you?
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Niyama: Observances (Things That Are Good for Us to Do)
Niyama refers to personal observances or habits that promote spiritual growth and well-being. They serve as guidelines that lead to a more harmonious and focused life. The five primary Niyamas are:
1. Sauca (Cleanliness):
– Sauca emphasizes the importance of cleanliness, encompassing not only physical cleanliness (keeping our house, body, and clothes clean) but also mental and emotional purity. Maintaining a clean environment is foundational since it contributes to a clear mind. When our surroundings and our bodies are well-maintained, our thoughts tend to become clearer and more positive.
– Cleaning the mind involves eliminating crude, degrading, or exploitative thoughts. A cluttered mind, filled with distractions or negativity, is akin to a dirty environment; meditation, service, and adherence to Yamas and Niyamas assist in purifying the mind.
Questions for Reflection:
Is it acceptable to look at pornographic magazines? This question raises complex ethical issues surrounding personal choice, societal norms, and the impact such materials can have on the mind and relationships.
Are there any scenarios in which engaging with such materials can be considered ‘clean’ or legitimate?
2. Santosha (Contentment):
– Santosha embodies the principles of contentment and balanced living. Often misinterpreted as mere happiness, it is more about maintaining a balanced mind regardless of external circumstances. A person practicing Santosha remains composed and unshaken by both positive and negative events in life, embodying a state of equanimity.
– For the yogi, Santosha goes beyond happiness and serves as a minimal necessity for progress on the spiritual path. It provides mental stability, fostering an attitude of optimism and pleasantness even during life’s trials and tribulations. A yogi’s balanced demeanour allows them to relate compassionately to those who suffer while still embodying the essence of Santosha.
Questions for Reflection:
The Chinese language has a character that signifies both crisis and opportunity—how does this relate to Santosha? This duality encourages seeing challenges not as barriers but as openings for growth and understanding.
How does one cultivate Santosha in daily life?
3. Tapas (Discipline, Austerity, or Effort):
– Tapas is sometimes misunderstood as mere sacrifice or penance, often associated with the idea of torturing oneself for spiritual realization. However, in the true spirit of Tapas, the focus is primarily on self-discipline and the commitment to serving others. It involves making sacrifices out of love and commitment to others and the world.
– For instance, a mother who skips her own meal to ensure her child is fed exemplifies Tapas. While the world may recognize this as a sacrifice, she may not even perceive it that way; rather, her act is rooted in the profound love she holds for her child. This form of selflessness, centered on prioritizing the well-being of others over oneself, encapsulates the essence of Tapas.
– Conversely, if someone performs a good deed solely for recognition or praise, it diminishes the authenticity of their self-discipline and undermines the true spirit of Tapas.
Questions for Reflection:
Can it be the case that a poor person gives a small amount of money to a good cause out of genuine intention and that a wealthy person gives a much larger sum as a tax write-off or for personal benefit?
4. Svadhyaya (Self-Study or Self-Reflection):
– Svadhyaya involves the study of texts, listening to inspiring discourses, and engaging with spiritual literature or teachings that guide our spiritual journey. The intention is to continually cultivate a deeper understanding of oneself and spiritual principles, which can provide insight and inspiration for practice.
– Engaging with spiritual literature or teachings is invaluable for personal growth; it helps reinforce our commitment to the yogic path and strengthens our resolve to cultivate virtues that contribute to inner harmony.
Questions for Reflection:
Is it considered Svadhyaya if you listen to a discourse and you are hearing the words but find that you know all the words by heart and are not understanding the meaning?
5. Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender to God):
– Ishvara Pranidhana translates to “taking shelter of God” or “surrender to the divine.” Practically speaking, this principle involves meditation—a practice of deep reflection and connection with the supreme consciousness.
– To truly embrace Ishvara Pranidhana, one should aim to meditate twice daily rather than just once, as this significantly enhances the benefits of the practice. In this context, meditation can involve contemplating a mantra alongside its meaning, spiritually visualizing, and expanding one’s consciousness toward the supreme entity.
– When one wholeheartedly practices meditation as part of Ishvara Pranidhana, it becomes more important than food, work, or any other obligation. Those who have genuinely imbibed this principle prioritize their meditation as the first task of the day and the last before sleep, immersing themselves fully in their connection to the divine.
Question for Reflection:
If we engage in meditation or Ishvara Pranidhana merely as a ritual—performing the act without true feeling or intention—will it yield the same benefits?
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The Importance of Yama and Niyama
The principles of Yama and Niyama are essential for achieving balance and calmness in the mind. The ethical considerations and personal observances we adopt illuminate the path for deeper yoga practices. Without a commitment to living ethically and with good intention, practitioners may find it challenging to achieve the tranquillity necessary for meditation and heightened awareness. In yogic science, following one’s conscience is seen as a pathway to morality; when our actions align with our values, we foster a harmonious mental state.
By understanding these ethical guidelines, individuals can cultivate a practice that leads to not only personal transformation but also greater harmony within the community and the world at large. The reflective questions posed within the discussion of Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Aparigraha, Brahmacharya, Sauca, Santosha, Tapas, Svadhyaya, and Ishvara Pranidhana invite deeper contemplation and awareness of how our everyday actions align with these values. Each reflective inquiry allows room for personal growth and development on the path of yoga and spirituality. Ultimately, the core principle surrounding Yama and Niyama is that if it follows your conscience, then you are effectively adhering to these ethical precepts. The study of these principles serves not only personal benefit but the upliftment of all, reminding us that we are all interconnected on this journey of life.