In a previous blog post, we explored the transformative power of integrating the Yamas and Niyamas into our daily lives. As both yoga teachers and students, these ethical principles form the foundation on which we can build a profound and enriching yoga practice. Today, we delve deeper into the significance of these principles and understand why they are considered the most important limbs of the Eightfold Path. (more…)
In today’s fast-paced and chaotic world, finding inner peace and tranquility has become a priority for many individuals. One practice that has stood the test of time and continues to provide profound insights into the human experience is yoga. Beyond its physical aspects, yoga encompasses a rich philosophical tradition that offers practical wisdom for navigating the challenges of everyday life. In this article, delve into the foundations of yoga philosophy, and explore its core principles and learn practical tips for unlocking inner peace. (more…)
Surrender opens us up to the idea that there is something greater than ourselves, something more intelligent than our thoughts, something that has a greater plan in play and we, as the participants, are simply doing our part. (more…)
Have you ever asked yourself the question “WHO AM I?” When it comes to the 4th Niyama, Study of the Self, one might wonder how does a person study themselves and what is involved with that? To study anything requires a person to be curious, focused, and inquisitive. (more…)
Tapas, the 3rd Niyama of the yoga sutras, translates as self-discipline. Most people, when they hear the word discipline, usually feel the hairs on the back of their neck stand up and resistance pops into their mind with the vision of heels digging into the sand as they were forced to do something they didn’t want to do. What most people don’t realize is the transformation that occurs through persevering a constant control of the self. (more…)
Santosha, the 2nd Niyama of the Yoga Sutras, wants us to have a deep sense of satisfaction and happiness with our life, relationships, and what we have. The first thought that comes to my mind is “I am happy, I am grateful for all that I have.” Santosha is a call to capture your thoughts and/or feelings that don’t match your beliefs in happiness. (more…)
Saucha – Purity
Saucha or purity is the 1st of 5 Niyamas and is really about cleanliness, inside and out. While most of us have good habits in taking care of the outside of our body, yoga also has several tools to help clean the inside of the body to support the removal of toxins and waste. (more…)
Aparigraha – The Art of Letting Go
Aparigraha is the last of the 5 Yamas and can be understood as non-grasping, non-hoarding, or non-greed. Now if you asked my husband how I rated in this he would probably tell you that I have this Yama pretty much down pat – since I seem to always be decluttering and giving things away that he isn’t quite ready to part with. (more…)
Everywhere we look, we see the results of living in excess. In a society that glorifies more and more, it becomes challenging to listen to the voice of intuition urging us towards moderation and balance. This Yama, Brahmacharya, can be particularly difficult to work on, and some may even question its importance. Let’s take the example of eating too much – when we overindulge, we feel sluggish and uncomfortable, lacking the motivation to do anything else, except maybe watching television. The same can be said for overdrinking, oversleeping, overworking, and overexerting in any aspect of life – it drains our vital life force, our prana. (more…)
Asteya – Non-stealing
The 3rd Yama is simple, don’t steal. In its simplest form, Asteya asks that we not take what does not belong to us. While most of us wouldn’t be categorized as a thief, this yogic principle draws our attention to more subtle ways in which we rob not only others but ourselves, on and off the yoga mat. (more…)