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.
Surrender to Love – Isvara Pranidhana
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.
The Benefits of Regular Yoga Practice
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 …
Know Thyself – Svadhyaya
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.
Be the best you that you can be – with Tapas
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.
Fall in Love with Life – Santosha
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.
A Healthy Approach to Life – Saucha
The practice of Saucha cleans us, body and soul, so our light can shine more brightly
Letting go of what you don’t need – Aparigraha
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.
Mastering our vital energy – Brahmacharya
Find greater happiness in life through the more efficient control of how we use our energy.
Discover Wealth with Asteya
How often have we heard people talk of the “good old days”, when life was “simpler”, with the romantic suggestion that people were happier then? We had less in the “good old days” – houses had one bathroom, cars didn’t have air bags or GPS, phones weren’t mobile, an …