YAMAS

In the second chapter of the Yoga Sutras (Sadhana Pada), Patanjali talks about yoga’s foundations. The basic foundations are the ten principles called: yamas and niyamas. In this article we will focus on the Yamas, which is the first of the eight branches of ashtanga yoga. Yamas are ethical disciplines also called the 5 no's of yoga or "restrictions" of behavior. The Yamas are universal vows unconditioned by social class, place and time. They represent the great universal vow "Maha Vratam”. The word yama derives from the root "yam" which means control. Therefore yamas can be seen as suggestions to control the behavior of practitioners, toward themselves and others. 

Which are the Yamas

Ahimsa

Ahimsa is nonviolence. The practice of yoga is based on this principle. Ahimsa we can also define it as compassion. Non-violence toward ourselves first and then toward others. This principle can be applied to any aspect of 'existence. Not being violent with words, thoughts, and actions leads us to develop compassion toward ourselves and others. If the drive that moves our existence is love and compassion, we will live in Ahimsa. 

Satya

Satya means truth. To live according to satya, means to be truthful with ourselves and others. Satya means to have honest inner communication and then to have it with others and to act so. When we live according to satya, we will be honest without causing pain or harm to others.

Asteya

Do not steal. This yama has a wide meaning. It not only refers to not stealing material things. Don't steal other people's time, energy, or ideas. Do not take possession of something that has not been deliberately given to us. Don't steal from ourselves. For example, when we do not practice Satya, we are stealing from ourselves the ability to see the truth and act according to it. We can also consider Asteya as fullness. When we are "full" on a spiritual, energetic and practical level, we have no need to steal anything.

Brahmacharya

Brahmacharya is continence. This yama is often interpreted as chastity but more than that, it refers to moderation. To live with moderation in every aspect of life is to be in control of ourselves. This yama makes us live with measure and helps us not to waste our energy. 

Aparigraha

Not greed. Letting go of the desire to accumulate wealth. This yama also represents gratitude. It can be regarded as the famous saying "knowing how to see the glass half full." If we are grateful for what we have regardless of how much or what it is, we will not need to accumulate wealth. Aparigraha implies knowing how to let go. Non-attachment not only toward material possessions but toward everything.

Yamas are the pillars of yoga and are applicable to any aspect of daily life. These virtues help us live in harmony with ourselves and others.