By Kim McBean, 889 Yoga Teacher and Yoga Therapist
The winter season is a time of self-reflection and transforming wisdom. We may choose to go deeper in our yoga practice, by observing our attitudes and behaviors in our relationships, including the one we have with ourselves. The yamas or ethical guidelines to yoga, offers a gateway to coming back to a unified whole.
Patanjali was a great sage, who gathered and compiled the ancient sacred texts on yoga. The heart of his teachings are found in the eight limbs of yoga. Physical postures or asana is number three on this path; the yamas or the ethical guidelines to life are number one. The yamas are known as the foundation of our yoga practice, and when interpreted, can provide structure, freedom and growth. These scriptures reveal that if we can stay true to practicing these precepts, then we open ourselves up to greater sense of ease and joy in our lives. Kindly begin with where you are, observing your thoughts and deeds. Take your yoga off the mat and stay grounded in these principles. Life becomes limitless and loving when we begin to realize our great potential.
The Five Yamas of Patanjali
AHIMSA Kindness – To be non-violent in our words, feelings, thoughts and actions. To be compassionate and caring towards
ourselves and all living beings. Practice conscious consideration to all, and treat others the way you would like to be treated.
SATYA Truthfulness – Not lying. Speaking, thinking, feeling and living in harmony with our truth. Honest communication and action in our relationships.
ASTEYA Abundance – Not stealing from ourselves and others or taking more than what we need. Not living our full potential and neglecting
what we have to offer to the world. Believing that there is enough. Giving and receiving.
BRAHMACHARYA Wise use of Energy – Practicing care and moderation with the use of our energy and life force. Regenerating the connection we have to Self.
APARIGRAHA Generosity – Coveting what isn’t ours and letting go of our greed and attachments to things.
Please join me this month, in a five-week workshop where we will weave each yama per week into a dynamic asana practice. For more info and to register please visit our Special Events and Programs page here.
