The Yamas & Niyamas
The Yamas and Niyamas are the ethical practice of yoga. In Yogic philosophy, these jewels sit as the first two limbs of the 8-fold path. The first five guidelines are referred to as the Yamas, a Sanskrit word which translates literally into the word "restraints" and includes nonviolence, truthfulness, non-stealing, non-excess, and non-possessiveness. The last five jewels are referred to as the Niyamas, or "observances," and include purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender.
Starting your Journey
Many guides to ethical conduct may leave us feeling overwhelmed with concepts, or boxed in by rule sets. But Yoga's guidelines do not limit us from living life. Rather, they begin to open life up to us more and more fully, and they flow easily into one another in ways that are practical and easy to grasp.
This book is perfect for the individual on a personal journey or for a group of people who would like to study together. Teachers could use this book to lead an extended study/ in-depth class or a book club/group of friends could make a commitment to studying together. Each Yama and Niyama has been given its own chapter in which the philosophy of the guideline is woven with practical examples and stories. At the end of the chapter a list of questions is provided for group or self study.
Explore the Book
Preview The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga's Ethical Practice:
- PDF of the Table of Contents
- PDF of the Preface and Introduction
- Using this book for a book club or yoga class?
Download a free copy of our facilitator’s guide.
The Yamas & Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice
Softcover, 192 pages, $12.95
ISBN-10: 9780974470641
ISBN-13: 978-0974470641
This book is available for purchase through our online system and also available at our studio.
For a complete list of book reviews, vendors, and information on becoming a suppler visit On-Word Bound Publishing’s site www.theyamasandniyamas.com.
