Yoga Philosophy

What is Yama? The First Limb of Yoga

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.

Yama Youtube Shorts Video
  1. 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.

A-himsa Youtube Shorts Video

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.

Satya Youtube Shorts Video

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.

A-Steya Youtube Shorts Video

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! 

Brahama-Charya Youtube Shorts Video

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.

A-pari-graha Youtube Shorts Video
Brian

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