Today we will begin to deep dive into the first limbs of yoga: Yama
The first two Limbs of Yoga, Yama & Ni-Yama, are considered the 2 major pillars that form our social identity on all levels.
These 2 major pillars purifies our mind, senses, and emotions; our subtle body.
The first Two Limbs of Yoga are broken down into 5 parts each and are also considered the 5 Vows.
Yama meaning “external observation.”
Yama also helps us bring our awareness to the external world to purify our thoughts, behaviors, and actions with 5 vows of personal practice.
These 5 Vows help mold a good human for society and is a critical pillar to reach higher consciousness or samadhi.
Below I will describe the 5 Vows and break down the words as well.
- A-himsa(a)
A = Not
him = Life
Saa = Cutting root life
A-himsa(a)
Non-violence but doesn’t only mean physically getting into a fight.
It means having no intentions to harm anyone or anything.
2. Satya
Sat = Existence
Ya = to move
Satya simply means truthfulness
It is being truthful on ALL levels.
You are moving towards the existence of something.
3. asteya
a = not
ste = nonexistence
ya = to move
asteya
No stealing; supporting someone’s existence.
By stealing, you are not supporting someone’s existence.
4. Brahama-Charya
Brahma-charya simply put is control of the senses or path of the creator.
Mainly associated with conserving sexual energy and celibacy.
For some, celibacy is not an option but, control of your sexual energy output is!
a-pari-graha
a = not
pari = ways, manner
graha = holding
5. a-pari-graha
Not holding onto old ways.
Just like holding a pen; we can only hold on for as long until our muscles ache.
Just like the pen, holding onto a thought leads to the same.
