नियम

Niyama

concepts

Observances, personal disciplines. Second limb of Ashtanga Yoga.

The five niyamas are:

  • Saucha — Purity
  • Santosha — Contentment
  • Tapas — Austerity
  • Svadhyaya — Self-study
  • Ishvara Pranidhana — Surrender

While yamas regulate the relationship with the exterior, niyamas cultivate the relationship with oneself. Together they form the ethical and attitudinal foundation without which yoga techniques are mere gymnastics.