Yama And Niyama – Two Core Limbs of Ashtanga

The word Ashtanga in the Sanskrit language means eight limbs and refers to the eight limbs of yoga as stated in Sage Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. There are a total of six series of Ashtanga yoga and you can progress through each of these at a comfortable pace. Ashtanga style of yoga was brought into existence by Sri T. Krishnamacharya from the ancient text known as Yoga Kurunta.

Sage Patanjali's Yoga Sutras contain extensive texts on Ashtanga yoga. However, you should know a little bit about the origins of this sacred art. Read below to know about the humble origins of Ashtanga yoga.

Ashtanga Yoga and K Pattabhi Jois

If you want to know what is Ashtanga Yoga, you must first know about its founder K Pattabhi Jois.

K. Pattabhi Jois began his study of yoga at the age of 12 under the guidance of T. Krishnamacharya in Mysore, India. Sri Jois became the leading proponents of Ashtanga yoga that includes a set of yoga poses done in a Vinyasa flowing style.

Later, in 1962, Pattabhi Jois published yoga mala that was a treaty on the Ashtanga style of yoga. This attracted many western countries' students to come to India to learn more about this yoga style. With time, Ashtanga yoga spread around the world and influenced the modern yoga.

With that said, let us now check out what exactly comprises of the two core principles of Ashtanga yoga, Yama and Niyama.

Yama And Niyama

Yama and Niyama originated in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras that many yoga teachers attempted to understand at some point during their teachings. However, you should know that Yoga Sutras is a compilation of the knowledge of Patanjali's disciples over time.

Let us now understand the first core limb of Ashtanga yoga, Yama.

Yama

Yama in Ashtanga yoga comprises of five principles namely;

1. Non-Violence

Non-violence is not limited to only avoiding physical violence. This principle also takes into account your thoughts, words, and actions. The principle of Non-violence states you should stop yourself from hurting others with unnecessary chatter and gossip. You should reduce clutter and unwanted drama in your life.

2. Non-Stealing

To understand what is Ashtanga yoga you should first understand the principle of non-stealing. It is not just about stealing precious possessions. You need to stop stealing other's hard work and ideas. Putting this Ashtanga yoga principle to practice helps you develop a clear conscience and peaceful sleep  at night.

3. Non-Collection

Adopting a yogic lifestyle requires letting go of everything that ties you down. In other words, simplicity is the key to happiness and living well. You should question the unnecessary clutter in your life, be it a collection of shoes, books, or even old bags. Living on minimum helps you enjoy a good and happy time.

4. Truthfulness

We all were taught in childhood that honesty is the best policy. However, at times you might have made excuses to miss out on a party or work commitment even when you are perfectly okay. This principle requires you to be completely truthful with others. If you want to experience the Ashtanga 8 limbs of yoga lifestyle, make it a habit to face a situation with honesty instead of deflecting it with a lie.

5. Moderation

Everything in excess, whether good or bad, eventually becomes poison for your being. You should not indulge in anything beyond what is required. Whether that is using social media or wasting money, you have to stop overdoing. This will help you control your senses in the long run.

These are the five major principles of Yama in Ashtanga Yoga. Let us now check out what Niyama is.

Niyama In Ashtanga Yoga

Given below are the five principles of Ashtanga yoga.

1. Contentment

Following this principle means you stop trying to change others and comparing yourself with others. Life is much more than just a six-figure salary or examination result! Comparing yourself only breeds discontentment and jealousy.

2. Self-Study

To know what is Ashtanga yoga, you should doself-study via spiritual practices. A major component of yoga is knowing yourself physically and mentally. It is only possible when you are aware of the flaws and good points in your being. You should read holy scriptures, keep positive company who makes you happy, and raise your spiritual knowledge with spiritual healing retreat.

3. Cleanliness

A major requirement to reap the maximum benefits of the Ashtanga yoga practice are clean surroundings. Whether it is internal or external, cleanliness is important. You should always think positive thoughts and do good.

4. Self-Discipline

You should overcome mental and physical hurdles with daily practice of yoga. For example, if you have a weakness for sweets, yoga practice helps you overcome this temptation with discipline.

5. Surrender To Higher Power

Total surrender to a higher power is one of the best ways you can progress on a spiritual plane of existence. Daily yoga practice can help you move ahead spiritually with faith guiding you on the right path.

Conclusion

Ashtanga yoga is the complete yoga style that helps you connect with the higher dimensions of life on a mental and physical plane of existence. However, it is essential you choose the right yoga school to know what is Ashtanga yoga in detail.

Also Read: Hatha Vs Vinyasa