YAMA AND NIYAMA
Conscious
Relationship
With Your World and
Yourself
Deva Parnell
"When
unaffected by culture, place, time, or
circumstance, these
principles are universal. They
consitute the Great Vow."
-Patanjali's Yoga
Sutras, 2.31
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YAMA
Social
Ethics
Ahimsa
Non-Violence / Compassion
Behave in kindness, friendliness, compassion, and
thoughtful
consideration of all beings and things, as well as yourself.
Satya
Non-Deception / Truthfulness
Practice conscious communication through speech,
writing,
gesture, and actions. Consider what you say, how you say it and in what
way it could affect others.
Asteya
Non-Stealing / Honesty
Take advantage of no person or situation for personal
gain.
Brahmacharya
Non-Abuse of Sexual Energy
/
Conscious Sexuality
Honor your sexuality and that of others. Create
relationships
that foster your understanding of the highest truths.
Aparigraha
Non-Greed / Security
Take only what you need and nothing more.
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NIYAMA
Personal Practices
Saucha
Purity
Maintain cleanliness
of body,
mind and surroundings.
Santosha
Contentment
Practice being
comfortable with
what you have and what you do not have. Embrace all experiences as
opportunities to learn and grow.
Tapas
Discipline
Increase the heat
that burns
impurities through practices that keep your body/mind fit and healthy:
proper sleep, exercise, nutrition, work, and relaxation.
Svadhyaya
Self Examination
Observe, read,
study, practice,
reflect, review and observe your progress so that you may see yourself
more clearly.
Ishvarapranidhana
Spiritual Attunement
"Let go and let
God." Attune to
the all-knowing presence within you and allow that presence to direct
your actions.
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