Yoga 101: The 5 Niyamas

Niyamas, the second limb of yoga, are practices of self-discipline and spiritual observances. It is related to obligations directed towards ourselves, but can also be considered our actions towards the external world. They are designed to help us develop our character. Working with the Niyamas, we are taken from our most obvious aspects to the truth hidden within us.

In Sanskrit, the prefix 'ni' is a verb that means 'interior' or 'interior'. There are five Niyamas:

Saucha (cleanliness)

Saucha means "cleanliness" or "purity" and encourages us to recognize who we are, in our essence, burning away disturbances and obstacles. It involves several procedures to purify the body and mind. Practicing Saucha gives us, for example, the capacity to recognize habits that we cultivate throughout life and that no longer serve us.

Santosha (contentment)

Santosha translates to "contentment." It's a practice of acceptance, that urges us to enjoy what we have and what we are in the present moment. This Niyama is about understanding the art of feeling at ease and in peace with yourself. When we are content, happiness becomes our choice.

Tapas (discipline or burning desire or conversely, burning of desire)

Tapas definition is "discipline" or "burning enthusiasm". It inspires us to develop a sense of self-discipline, passion, and confidence. Tapas encourages any voluntary discipline that brings us transformation —whether it is improving our health, developing a new habit, or following another path in life. It centers our energy, create enthusiasm, and enhances our vitality and courage. Through tapas, we can burn away impurities and awaken the divinity in us.

Svadhyaya (self-study or self-reflection, and study of spiritual texts)

Svadhyaya means “to recollect on the Self" or "self-study" and is our searching for meaning. When we exercise self-reflection, self-investigation, and self-study, we become extra conscious of things we are doing that are hurting us. Svadhyaya also encourages us to study what motivates and excites us, deepening our knowledge.

Isvarapranidaha (surrender to a higher power)

Isvara Pranidhana translates into "trustful surrender to God," or "recognizing the source". It is the act of letting go of expectations, surrendering to a higher power, or conscience. It is doing the best we can, being whole, and living life to the fullest.

Practicing this Niyama will ease the distractions and fluctuations of the mind, known as Vrittis, that cause anxiety and stressful feelings and offer us an opportunity to feel empowered.