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In this final blog in a series commenting on the Yamas and Niyamas, we look at how “surrender of the ego to love” can help us in a competitive world.

The last of the ten Yamas and Niyamas is Isvara Pranidhana. This is the culmination of a series of steps leading us to that deep sense of peace, tranquillity and overall happiness that is yoga.

Possibly the most misunderstood aspect of yoga is its benefits. People generally think of yoga as an exercise system that aims to improve our flexibility. Yes, yoga will help with flexibility, but that is only the tip of the iceberg. There is so much more under the surface that flexibility …

Have you ever looked in the mirror and thought “who is that person”? Beyond the name and job title, when we look deep below the surface, right into the soul, who are we really? This is what Svadhyaya is all about. It is the study of our self.

We can achieve things we might have thought impossible, if we have the passion and commitment. This is Tapas. Doing so, though, requires “right effort” so as not to burn out or injure ourselves along the way. Tapas is the 8th of the Yamas and Niyamas.

Where does happiness come from?  The answer can be found in Santosha.  Patanjali provides the following description of Santosha: ‘By contentment, supreme joy is obtained’ (Yoga Sutra 2.42).  This might seem like a large leap – from contentment to supreme joy, but there is much depth to this concept.

The practice of Saucha cleans us, body and soul, so our light can shine more brightly

Do you feel weighed down? It might be from too much clutter in your home or in your life; or from thoughts you can’t seem to shake. If so, Aparigraha might be the Yama you need to focus on.

Find greater happiness in life through the more efficient control of how we use our energy.