In this episode, Erin shares a live recording of her yoga church at Thrive Yoga & Fitness (recorded live every first Sunday 11:15am EST).
The Yamas and Niyamas are ethical principles and guidelines in Ashtanga Yoga that help practitioners cultivate a balanced and harmonious life.
The Yamas consist of five moral restraints that guide our interactions with the external world. They are:
1. Ahimsa (Non-violence): Avoid causing harm to oneself and others in thoughts, words, and actions.
2. Satya (Truthfulness): Practice honesty and truthfulness in all aspects of life.
3. Asteya (Non-stealing): Refrain from stealing or coveting others’ possessions, ideas, or time.
4. Brahmacharya (Moderation): Cultivate self-control and channel energy towards spiritual growth.
5. Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness): Let go of attachment to material possessions and cultivate contentment.
The Niyamas consist of five personal observances that focus on self-discipline and inner development. They are:
1. Saucha (Cleanliness): Maintain cleanliness and purity in one’s body, mind, and environment.
2. Santosha (Contentment): Cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment with what one has.
3. Tapas (Discipline): Develop self-discipline and perseverance to achieve personal and spiritual goals.
4. Svadhyaya (Self-study): Engage in self-reflection, study of sacred texts, and self-inquiry.
5. Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender to a higher power): Surrender one’s ego and will to a higher power or divine consciousness.
By practicing the Yamas and Niyamas, individuals strive to cultivate a balanced and ethical lifestyle, fostering personal growth and spiritual development.
Namaste