The Niyamas

The Niyamas are the second of the 8 limbs of yoga. The Niyamas are the disciplines of self-study, introspection, and self purifications. Below you will find ideas to practice each of the 5 Niyamas.  Take my yoga class Here and learn more about the Niyamas.

NIYAMAS -Self Observances

1 SAUCHA Purifications for body and mind, cleansing techniques

Ways to Practice Saucha

• Kapalabhati breathe of fire -practice this daily ritual with my youtube video here –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqfqRjN0SmE&t=2s
• Daily nasal cleansing with a Neti Pot https://amzn.to/2OdXclJ
• Fasting or cleanse
• Meditate to clear the mind
• Chakra meditation

2 SANTOSHA Contentment, peace, gratitude

Ways to Practice Santosha

• Keep a gratitude journal
• Meditate
• Practice being less reactive
• Chant, sing, or dance as a meditation
• Take time every day to do your favorite activity

3 TAPAS Self-discipline, the fire within

Ways to practice Tapas

• Do a strong yoga workout to build inner heat
• Make a list of self-care activities that you will do every day
• Make a list of rules for yourself (ex. no electronics 2 hours before bed)
• Try a new activity and do it for one month, even if it’s just 10 minutes a day
• The second you wake up in the morning, ask yourself what you want to manifest for the day

4 SVADYAYA Self-study, study of ancient texts

Ways to practice Svadyaya

• Meditate
• Read some of the great teachings of yoga, such as Bhagavad Gita or The Path of the Yoga Sutras https://amzn.to/3q78LcF.
• Listen to the wisdom of some great teachers on Youtube, such as Mooji (see Youtube video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pF_umJVoVKk.
• Be conscious of what is harming you physically and mentally, such as excessive sitting in one position, the food you eat, or obsessive behavior.
• On the mat, be aware of where you are letting ego take over instead of honoring what is best for you.

5 ISHVARA Connection beyond our small self, surrender

Ways to practice Ishvara

• Practice yoga Nidra (try the free App Insight Timer)
• Practice Savasana (8 minutes at the end of a yoga practice)
• Listen to meditation by Mooji on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yVfR6P8wMo
• Repeat a daily mantra such as “not my will, but thy will be done.”
• Chant Daily