THE NIYAMAS

Following the yamas, the five restraints, come the five observances, the niyamas. The niyamas are the second step of raja yoga, or the eightfold path.
The first of the niyamas, shaucha, has been described as the goal of the whole of yoga philosophy. Translated from the sanskrit, saucha means self-purification. Sovik and Anderson, explain in their book, YOGA MASTERING THE BASICS, ..."from the yogic point of view the accumulation of internal wastes (whether in the form of undigested food or undigested experience) is the primary cause of disease. The aim of shaucha is to remove internal toxins and wastes, and to select wisely from the many choices of food, emotions, and thoughts waiting to come in."
I have always heard that keeping your surroundings neat and orderly helps to keep your thinking clear. I know that to be true for me. But, if I'm keeping my surroundings clean, while surrounding myself with negative people, reading material, tv programs, am I practicing self-purification? Striving to eat food that is pure, and as unrefined as possible serves to purify the body, leading to clearer thinking and healthier living.

The second of the niyamas,santosha, means contentment. Sovik and Anderson describe contentment in this way: "Practicing contentment means letting go of the past. It means not condemning ourselves for not being wiser, wealthier, or more successful than we are. It also means that we must free our mind of expectations. Then we will see life in a larger context and be able to ride its ups and downs with equanimity. Contentment allows us to know that we are making the right effort."
This boils down to acceptance. My life will change when I can accept myself for who I am, my spouse and my children for who they are. When I no longer expect life to be a certain way, I find contentment. In theory, this sounds simple, but in practice it is not easy. I accept this fact, and continue to practice, accepting that I will slip along the way.

The third nyama, tapas, translates to self-discipline. The literal translation is heat, that which grows with right-minded effort. To quote Sovik and Anderson again: "Tapas accompanies any discipline that is willingly and gladly accepted in order to bring about change of some kind-whether it be improved health, a new habit, better concentration, or a different direction in life. Tapas focuses energy, creates fervor, and increases strength and confidence. The practice of asanas is a form of tapas for the body; meditation is a tapas that purifies and focuses the mind." It is a good idea to be realistic with tapas. If I attempt to make too many changes at once, I may be setting myself up to fail. One or two small changes at a time will allow me to more reasonably follow through with tapas.

Svadhayaya, the fourth niyama, means self-study. I can explore self-study by reading inspirational/spiritual literature. Eventually, I gain awareness of myself through the practice of the yamas, niyamas, breath work and meditation. I learn to notice when my thoughts and actions are in line with my goals. Eventually, the practice of self-study moves inward. Using a mantra during meditation creates a connection to the inner self. "Self-study is not prescriptive. Any practice of yoga can be part of it, as can the words of yogis, saints, and sages, as well as inspiration gained through teachers we are drawn to." (Sovik and Anderson)

Ishvara Prandhanai is the last of the niyamas. This translates to self-surrender. Contrary to popular belief, surrender is not about losing, giving up, defeat. Sovik and Anderson explain: "Self-surrender, then, is not a process of defeat or of mindlessly submitting to another's will. It is the act of giving ourselves to a higher purpose-and when we do we feel uplifted and invigorated." In yoga philosophy, we discuss the four instinctive urges: food, sleep, sex and self-preservation. It is when life becomes ruled by these urges, that I lose track of my inner purpose. The reason for the yamas and niyamas, is to guide one in regulating desires so that life is not dictated by never ending wants and attachments. We as humans have another strong urge, and that is for self-realization. By not allowing the four urges to run rampant, I am more able to move inward, through meditation, giving myself to a higher purpose. (Sovik and Anderson)