Ready for part 2 of our 'Eight Limbs of Yoga' mini-series? ?
The Niyamas are the second limb of the 'Eight Limbs of Yoga' and refer to duties directed towards ourselves - inner observances (the do's). They are intended to help us build character.
- Saucha (cleanliness) - not just physical cleanliness but the purifying of the mind, body and speech to enable us to recognise the habits we have picked up that no longer serve us. By clearing away clutter we create more space for happiness (Marie Kondo style ?)
- Santosha (contentment) - the focus on and appreciation of what we do have rather than what we don't. As humans we always say "I'll be happy when...", why not be happy now? ?
- Tapas (discipline) - helps us cultivate a sense of self discipline, passion and courage without being attached to the goal. Yoga practice, not yoga perfect! ?
- Svadhyaya (self study) - like Patanjali says “Study thyself, discover the divine”. Not just furthering our education, but practicing self reflection, observation and study of the self makes us more aware of the things we do that harm us and ultimate become a truer person.
- Isvara Pranidhana (surrendering to a higher power) - even self-proclaimed atheists usually believe in something bigger than us. It helps us let go of expectations and not fight against life or ourselves.
