Niyama (self-purification and study) -Ashtanga Yoga

Niyama, second part of Ashtanga Yoga, is about self-regulation that helps in maintaining a positive environment for growth.  Niyama, in fact, strengthens the values imbibed through Yama, the first part of Ashtanga Yoga. Niyama the Sanskrit word actually means laws or the rules. In comparison to Yama, Niyama could appear to be more personal. Patanjali constitutes five niyamas that are briefed here:

SAUCHA (Cleanliness) – Saucha means both internal and external cleanliness. Inner cleanliness is concerned with the proper functioning of the body organs, along with clarity of mind. Asanas and Pranayamas are essential towards achieving this internal cleanliness. It also implies that just as water helps in purification of body, intellectual purity, and a truthfulness helps in maintaining Saucha.

SANTOSHA (Contentment) – Santosha or Contentment actually implies that one should remain satisfied with one’s possession and not wish for more. It is the state of mind that maintains equanimity with everything that life has to offer. It promotes the practice of gratitude, happiness and peace at all times without being influenced by any external factors.

TAPAS (Austerity) – Tapas is the power to withstand the extremities.  In other words, it is the activity that keeps the body fit and simultaneously helps in handling the inner urges without showing any external signs. It believes that perfect person is one who maintains physical as well as mental austerity. Abstaining from eating when not hungry, paying attention to body posture, breathing patterns are all part of tapas, which inturn disciplines the individual with healthy eating habits and to remain free of diseases.

SWADHYAYA (Self education) – Self-Education or Swadhyaya involves scriptural studies, the script being Upanishads and the Vedas along with recitation of Mantras.  It is also about getting to know more about oneself through all contacts and reflection and learning.

ISVARAPRANIDHANA (Meditation of the divine) –  The fifth Niyama, is the complete dedication of an individual’s speech, body and intellect to the divine. The mind can aim to appreciate the Divine through concentration and dedication of the mind.

Tags: ashtanga yoga, niyama, tapas