Abstract
The ultimate purpose of yoga is an acomplishment of 8 limbs of astanga yoga as interpreted by the sage Patanjali. The first two limbs, the Yama and Niyama can be seen as a set of rules and general values that should reflect in every action and even in the way of living of a Yogi. The following text further develops the first limb of astanga yoga tree, the Yama.
The Yamas are foundation for any further growth in the life of Yogi. Not obeying them while devoting to the upcoming stages would either compromise any effort on higer stages, either lead to injuries (i.e. Asanas) and dissatisfaction or completely disable one the experience the the final steps of asthanga yoga tree (Dhyana, Samadhi).
There were different opinions among teachers about constituents of Yoga. Not everyone even mention Yamas as one of them! Furthermore, even among those that count Yamas as the constituents of Yoga, there is a variety in their number. According to Bhagavata Purana for example, there are twelve Yamas (beside those of Patanjali also feeling of shame for evil, non-collection of luxury, observance of silence, firmness, Faith in God and the Vedas, fearlessness, forgiveness). In the following text I am going to rely on the classification and interpretation of the sage Patanjali, described in his 8 sustras of Yoga.
According to Patanjali, there are 8 limbs of Ashtanga yoga:
- Yama (abstinences - the do not do´s)
- Niyama (observances - the do do´s)
- Asana (physical postures)
- Pranayama (breath control)
- Pratyahara (sense withdrawal)
- Dharana (meditative concentration - visualization)
- Dhyana (meditative contemplation - meditation)
- Samadhi (meditative absorption)
So Yamas are considered to be the first limb of yoga. They are a set of ethical guidelines or principles that provide a moral and ethical foundation for the practice of yoga. The Yamas help individuals cultivate harmonious and ethical relationships with themselves and others. According to Patanjali there are five Yamas:
- Ahimsa (non-violence)
- Satya (truthfulness)
- Asteya (non-stealing)
- Brahmacharya (moderation)
- Aparigraha (non-possessiveness)
Ahimsa
Ahimsa, a cornerstone of yoga philosophy, is a profound concept encapsulating non-violence, compassion, and the practice of harmlessness. Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, Ahimsa guides individuals to extend empathy, respect, and benevolence to all living beings, emphasizing not just physical actions but also thoughts and words. It forms the basis of a harmonious and ethical way of life.
At its essence, Ahimsa invites us to abstain from causing harm in any form. This means refraining from physical violence, but it extends far beyond that. It entails avoiding emotional and psychological harm, cultivating a mindset of peace, and radiating positivity. It encourages us to be mindful of our words, selecting them carefully to avoid hurting others. Negative judgments and thoughts should be transformed into constructive and compassionate ones.
Ahimsa isn’t just about abstaining from harm; it calls for active promotion of kindness and compassion. This includes treating animals with respect, safeguarding the environment, and nurturing self-compassion. By treating ourselves with love and care, we are better equipped to extend that same compassion to others.
In the context of yoga, Ahimsa is fundamental. It sets the stage for inner and outer harmony. By embracing Ahimsa, conflicts are reduced, understanding is heightened, and a sense of unity with the world emerges. Ahimsa encourages a conscious way of life, inspiring choices that minimize harm and contribute positively to the well-being of all beings.
In essence, Ahimsa guides us to live in alignment with the deeper values of yoga and spiritual growth. By practicing this principle, we embark on a journey towards a more peaceful and compassionate existence, both within and beyond the yoga studio. Ahimsa reminds us that our actions have consequences, not only for others but for our own inner state. Through Ahimsa, we become agents of positive change, promoting harmony and well-being in the world. It is a timeless and universal principle that reminds us of our interconnectedness and the transformative power of love and compassion. Therefore it is understandable why Ahimsa is the very first principle in the first of eight limbs of yoga. Being gentle, harmless in one´s practice and life in general is in fact the only bearable way for healthy and worthwile existance. Harm is actually the very most contradictive action to existance.
Satya
Satya, the second concept in the Yamas of yoga, is a profound principle that revolves around truthfulness and authenticity. Rooted in the ancient wisdom of yoga, Satya encourages individuals to embrace honesty not only in their words but also in their thoughts and actions. It serves as a guiding light for living a life in alignment with one’s values and beliefs, fostering trust, transparency, and self-realization.
Satya invites us to speak the truth with kindness and compassion. It emphasizes that our words should reflect the reality as accurately as possible, without distortion or deception. Yet, it acknowledges that truth can be multifaceted and complex, requiring us to communicate difficult truths with sensitivity and care.
Practicing Satya extends beyond external communication. It encourages us to be truthful to ourselves, acknowledging our own feelings, desires, and motives. This self-awareness enables us to live authentically, aligning our actions with our inner convictions. By embracing truthfulness, we shed layers of self-deception and find freedom in being genuine.
In our interactions with others, Satya forms the foundation of trust and authenticity. When we are honest and transparent, we build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Truthful communication fosters understanding and deepens connections. It invites us to listen actively, acknowledging the perspectives and experiences of others.
Satya also encompasses ethical honesty, urging us to live our lives in accordance with our values. This means making choices that reflect our true beliefs and not compromising our integrity. In essence, Satya encourages us to be in harmony with our inner truth and outer actions.
Steps of Satya start with Intellectual truthfulness (Baudhika Satya). Once the intellectual truth is established, one is able to speak truthfully, which is considered to be a second stage (Vachika Satya). The final step encompasses also the physical action, which can only be truthfully realised after truth has been understood and expresed vocally.
In the practice of yoga, Satya guides us towards self-realization and personal growth. By living truthfully, we remove the barriers that hinder our spiritual development. Satya empowers us to embrace authenticity, creating a sense of wholeness and integrity. It’s a reminder that truthfulness is not just a matter of words but a way of being that brings us closer to our true selves and to a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Asteya
Asteya, the third principle of the Yamas in yoga philosophy, encapsulates the concept of non-stealing and non-covetousness. Rooted in the teachings of ancient yoga traditions, Asteya goes beyond refraining from physical theft and encourages individuals to cultivate a sense of contentment, gratitude, and ethical conduct in all aspects of life.
At its core, Asteya urges us not to take what does not rightfully belong to us. This includes not only material possessions but also intangible assets, such as credit for others’ work or ideas. Asteya invites us to respect the boundaries and possessions of others, fostering an environment of trust and goodwill.
Practicing Asteya extends to both our outer actions and inner attitudes. It encourages us to find contentment with what we have, rather than constantly craving more. This sense of contentment is rooted in the understanding that true happiness does not come from material wealth but from inner peace and fulfillment.
Asteya also entails being mindful of our consumption and desires. It encourages us to avoid overconsumption and the accumulation of excess. By reducing our attachment to material possessions, we free ourselves from the burden of greed and dissatisfaction.
In our interactions with others, Asteya promotes fairness and ethical conduct. It discourages dishonesty, cheating, and taking advantage of others for personal gain. Instead, it invites us to engage in honest and respectful relationships. Furthermore, if one is being well off and he is not willing to share some of his assets to those in need, it is considered as a violation of Asteya as well while also reflecting in a certain way the principle of the fifth Yama, Aparigraha.
In the context of yoga, Asteya serves as a reminder that our actions have consequences, not only for ourselves but for the world around us. By practicing non-stealing and non-covetousness, we contribute to a more equitable and harmonious society. It also aligns with the yogic concept of aparigraha, which emphasizes non-attachment to material possessions.
Asteya encourages us to live with integrity and mindfulness, recognizing that our inner attitudes and outer actions are interconnected. By cultivating a sense of contentment and ethical conduct, we not only enhance our own well-being but also contribute to a more just and compassionate world, in harmony with the deeper principles of yoga.
Brahmacharya
Brahmacharya, the fourth Yama in yoga philosophy, encompasses the concept of moderation and responsible use of one’s energy. Often, it is associated with celibacy, but its broader interpretation encourages individuals to harness their physical, mental, and emotional energies wisely, promoting balance and self-control.
Traditionally, Brahmacharya implies celibacy or abstinence from sexual activity. This practice is believed to conserve vital energy, redirecting it towards spiritual growth and self-realization. To truly conserve vital energy one have to control all the organs, especially in his first quarter of life. This fact further extrapolates the Brahmacharya to actions such as abstinence from meat consumption, non-use of purgatives and collirium. No gambling and even witnessing a drama. However, in a modern context, Brahmacharya has a more inclusive meaning. It encourages individuals to approach all aspects of life with moderation and mindfulness.
In terms of sexuality, Brahmacharya encourages individuals to embrace a responsible and mindful approach. This doesn’t necessarily mean complete abstinence but rather engaging in sexual activities that are healthy, respectful, and free from exploitation. It underscores the importance of intimacy in a loving and consensual context.
Beyond sexuality, Brahmacharya promotes moderation in various aspects of life, including food consumption, sleep, work, and sensory stimulation. It reminds us that overindulgence or excessive behaviors can disrupt our physical, mental, and emotional equilibrium. By practicing moderation, we conserve our energy and maintain a sense of balance.
Brahmacharya also emphasizes mindfulness in our daily choices. It encourages us to examine our desires and impulses, questioning whether they serve our well-being or lead to imbalance. It invites us to use our energy wisely, pursuing activities that align with our values and contribute to our personal growth.
In the practice of yoga, Brahmacharya plays a significant role in achieving mental clarity and spiritual awakening. By practicing moderation and self-control, individuals can redirect their energies towards self-realization and deeper states of consciousness. It is a reminder that the path of yoga is not just about physical postures but also about cultivating self-awareness and inner transformation.
In summary, Brahmacharya invites us to find balance and moderation in all aspects of life, recognizing that responsible use of our energy leads to greater harmony and personal growth. It encourages us to live mindfully and make choices that promote our well-being and spiritual evolution.
Aparigraha
Aparigraha, the fifth and final Yama in yoga philosophy, encompasses the principle of non-possessiveness and non-attachment. Rooted in the wisdom of ancient yogic teachings, Aparigraha invites individuals to let go of excessive materialism and cultivate contentment by embracing a simple and uncluttered way of life.
At its core, Aparigraha encourages us to refrain from hoarding material possessions and coveting more than what is necessary for our well-being. It emphasizes that attachment to material wealth can lead to suffering and distract us from our spiritual path. By reducing our attachment to possessions, we create space for inner peace and clarity.
Practicing Aparigraha extends beyond physical possessions. It encompasses non-attachment to recognition, power, status, and even relationships. It reminds us that clinging to these external factors can hinder our personal growth and happiness. Instead, it encourages us to derive fulfillment from within, focusing on inner qualities and virtues.
Aparigraha also encourages ethical conduct in financial matters. It discourages exploitation, dishonesty, and greed, emphasizing fair and just interactions with others. By practicing fairness in financial dealings, we contribute to a more equitable and compassionate society.
In a consumer-driven world, Aparigraha invites us to reevaluate our relationship with materialism. It encourages mindful consumption, where we acquire only what we genuinely need and avoid excess. By doing so, we reduce our environmental footprint and minimize the impact of consumerism on the planet.
In the context of yoga, Aparigraha aligns with the broader yogic concept of detachment (vairagya). It encourages us to let go of attachments that bind us to the cycle of suffering and rebirth. By practicing non-attachment, we can move closer to spiritual liberation and self-realization.
Aparigraha reminds us that true wealth lies not in the abundance of possessions but in the richness of our inner life. It encourages us to cherish experiences, relationships, and personal growth over material accumulation. In doing so, we find freedom from the burdens of attachment and pave the way for a more profound sense of contentment and inner peace.
In summary, Aparigraha invites us to live with non-possessiveness and non-attachment, fostering a sense of contentment and simplicity in our lives. It encourages ethical conduct and mindfulness in our relationships with possessions and others, ultimately guiding us toward spiritual growth and inner fulfillment which at the utmost stage of understanding enables us to unambiguously see our past, present and future. It is in this reflections of one´s future that the insight of liberation from Samsara can be achieved.