“For aspiring yogis, the practice begins with cultivating these virtues until – through consistent practices and self-reflection – we become established in them. Until that time, we practice these restraints as one of the limbs of yoga, continually raising the bar as we become stronger and more enlightened.” Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD The Secret of the Yoga Sutra Samadhi Pada p 170
These virtues relate to how we engage positively with the external world, and we flourish in our internal world.
Significance of Yamas + Niyamas in Patanjali’s Yoga
Yamas: restraints, relationship with external world
- Ahimsa: Nonviolence
- Satya: Truthfulness
- Asteya: Non-stealing
- Brahmacharya: Non-excess
- Aparigraha: Non-possessiveness
Niyamas: observances, relationship with internal world
- Saucha: Purity
- Santosha: Contentment
- Tapas: Discipline
- Svadhyaya: Self-Study
- Ishvara Pranidhana: Surrender
Whether our goal is to be ‘enlightened’ or simply to get along better with our neighbor – these restraints and observances help give us constructs, and offer a loving guide to engage in our learning and evolving, together.
We practice in an effort to observe the tendencies of the mind, and we practice in order to let go just enough to see the mind for what it is (a reflective and creative tool), and further yet, we learn how to take more compassionate actions through thought and word, in order to aspire for greater knowledge and understanding. Just like this last sentence, the pursuit of this seems endless at times – so why not continue with the practice!
My friend and colleague Anna Wakefield and I have teamed up for the 4th year in a row to study foundational Yoga Philosophy and offer seasonal wellness practices in an intimate space online with fellow yogis also on the path of study. Satsang translates to Community of Truth Seekers. We join together to share in discussion and reflection during the darkest months of the year, and there’s something about the ‘glow’ in that space of coming together that keeps us warm all year. Many participants keep coming back…
There is a heat that is generated by a self-reflective and compassionate practice. This is a transformative space. So, if you’re looking for a heart-warming community and compassionate program that leaves your cup filled up after practice – then look no further. Into the Heart of Winter Satsang: Yamas + Niyamas Guided Book Study online programming starts in January! Join us for Part I Yamas and Part II Niyamas, both offered in 5-week sessions. As well as access to recorded content and live classes.
Sign Up with Satsang Yoga Collective
Beginners will gain a solid foundation in Yoga’s holistic mind-body practices. Experienced yogis will deepen their practice through focused and consistent study with a community.
Winter Satsang is for you if you are:
- Curious about foundational Yoga principles
- Looking to deepen or expand your mind-body awareness
- Ready to connect with a community of students and teachers
- Yoga Alliance (YA) registered teacher who want to earn CE credits
Winter Satsang includes:
- Reading one chapter per week from The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice
- Participating in weekly group reflection practice from the book
- Guided book discussion, Yoga philosophy, and seasonal self-care practices
Happy Practicing!
Alison Zuba
Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT)
Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT)
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