Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India

Traditional 200-Hour Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh

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Enliven an authentic yogic experience in Ashram environment and attune your body, mind and spirit with the knowledge and training of Yoga. Get trained by experienced yoga experts, teachers and spiritualists. Earn the status of globally recognized Yoga Instructor with Yoga Teacher Training Certification in India at Rishikesh Yogis Yogshala. Hail to the spiritual town of Rishikesh, the land of holy river Ganges and embrace the yogic experience in the lap of Himalayas.

200 Hr Yoga TTC

Become a globally certified yoga teacher with our 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course in Rishikesh, India. Rishikesh Yogis is one of the most authentic yoga schools in Rishikesh and is recognized by Yoga Alliance, USA. Upon completion of our 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training Course in Rishikesh, you gain in-depth knowledge and understanding in traditional subjects like Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga . At Rishikesh Yogis, we aim to teach yoga in its purest and most traditional form.
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Kundalini Yoga TTC

200 hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training program by Rishikesh Yogis, is one of the most immersive and experiential programs currently taught in Rishikesh. The modules developed for our Kundalini Yoga teacher Training intends to deepen one’s awareness, experience and understanding of Kundalini and Kundalini Yoga traditions in progressive fashion
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Spanish Hatha YTTC

Attain peace in your body, mind and spirit with the learning and practice of Hatha Yoga Teacher Training Learn and exercise the inner core to align your mind, body, spirit in a harmonious rhythm. Embark on your journey of self-discovery and enhance your physical, mental, and spiritual being. Get certified in the most ancient and classical forms of yoga. Spread the benefits of yoga philosophy across the world as a yogi and a skilled Hatha yoga teacher.
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Spanish Ashtanga YTTC

Get sculpted and certified with the Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh Learn and practice the most invigorating style of yoga with the Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training. Earn your certification in the most physically challenging and mentally stimulating style of yoga. Practice the art of Ashtanga Yoga to evolve mentally, physically, and spiritually. Spread this dynamic form of yoga all over the globe by becoming an accomplished Ashtanga yoga teacher.
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Scholarship Yoga TTC

Yoga is a universal science that places no bias among its followers. The science can be adopted by anyone, irrespective of age, creed, religion, body type, disorders, etc.
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Upcoming Events

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Renowned for its Yogic Excellence and Authenticity, Rishikesh Yogis Yogshala offers the perfect solace and a highly enlightening experience of Yoga to its participating students.

200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training Course

1st August 2019 - 28th August 2019

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100 Hour Kundalini Yoga TTC

1st August 2019 - 14th August 2019

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200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training

1st August 2019 - 28th August 2019

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100 hours Yoga Teacher Training

5th September 2019 - 18th September 2019

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200 Hours Yoga Training Course

5th September 2019 - 2nd October 2019

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200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training

10th October 2019 - 6th November 2019

100 hours yoga teacher training

10th October 2019 - 23rd October 2019

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200 Hour Kundalini Yoga Teacher Training

19th December 2019 - 15th January 2020

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100 Hour Kundalini Yoga TTC

19th December 2019 - 1st January 2020

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100 Hour Kundalini Yoga TTC

23rd January 2020 - 5th February 2020

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Yoga and Meditation Retreats in Rishikesh, India

7 and 10 Day Programs

Yoga Retreats at Rishikesh Yogis are an awarding experience. What make these retreats even more exclusive is the option to customize these according to individual yogi’s or group requirements. These yoga retreats are usually spread over a time period of 3days – 10 days. During these yoga vacations, you shall delve deeper into the knowledge of yoga, attain deeper meditation techniques and you shall be introduced to fresh new ideas as well.

10-Day Kriya and Kundalini Yoga Retreat in Rishikesh, India

The 10-day Kriya and Kundalini Yoga Retreat program offered by Rishikesh Yogis is one of the most intensive and insightful programs currently taught in Rishikesh, India. It is a very progressive program consisting of modules to deepen one’s awareness, experience and understanding of Kriya and Kundalini Yoga traditions in systematic fashion.

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10-Day Yoga and Meditation Retreat

Soak in a divine yogic experience with our Yoga and Meditation Retreat in Rishikesh, India. Seek the route to reconnect with the body, mind and spirit by indulging in unique yoga and meditation practices during this wonderful retreat program.

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10-Day Intensive Chakra Sadhana Retreat in India

Sadhana is a focused spiritual endeavor to achieve internal, as well external purification and harmony. We, at Rishikesh Yogis Yogshala, offer Intensive Chakra Sadhana Retreat in the holy town of Rishikesh, India. Truly one of a kind, the retreat is designed to take the participants on a life’s journey of mental and spiritual awakening.

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7-Day Yoga for Trauma and Healing Retreat in India

Learn practices that help trauma survivors re-connect to their bodies in healthy and meaningful ways. Our beautiful ashram setting is the perfect place to spend time in nature and process what you learn. These 7 days will provide you will several tools for processing trauma and equip you to help lead others through a healing journey of mind and body.

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Design Your Own Retreat

Every person and group have unique interests and needs. Let us customize a retreat that is exactly what you need. Use the form below to select the topics and activities that you are most interested in. We will then design a custom schedule for your group.

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Essence of Yoga 10 Day Retreat in Rishikesh, India

Are you looking for a way to feel healthier, less stressed, more in tune with your body, mind and spirit? Have you thinking of where to plan your next international trip? Has the magic of India called your name for some time now?

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Why Rishikesh Yogis

Traditional and Authentic

Renowned for its Yogic Excellence and Authenticity, Rishikesh Yogis Yogshala offers the perfect solace and a highly enlightening experience of Yoga to its participating students.

Learn Yoga from experienced and internationally renowned yoga teachers recognized by Conde Nast Traveler and Spa Finder magazines.
Small batches to ensure maximum individual attention
Dwell in Ashram facility and experience authentic yogic lifestyle.
Best Yoga and Meditation hall.
Organic farm, Fresh yogic food
Complimentary Yoga Bag with Books, Journal and T-Shirt and guided Excursions

Welcome To The Ashram Lifestyle

Our Facilities

Rishikesh Yogis Yogshala is blessed with spacious yoga halls that do not look like conference rooms. We provide cozy and comfortable abode to our students where they get to dwell in Ashram environment for experiencing true yogic lifestyle. The students are offered delectable Yogic food. Meditation practices to calm the soul in a solitary environment and Organic farms are the major highlights.

Food

Prepared by our chefs specializing in Ayurvedic Cooking, relish highly palatable and wholesome yogic food that is freshly sourced from our organic farms.

Garden

Our Self Sufficient Organic Garden, nestled beside the foothills of the Himalayas in Rishikesh, India. The farm is maintained by our resident chef Bandhu; Hindi for ‘Friend’. He looks after the land with 3 other farmers, as well as his wife and cooking partner. Throughout your stay, you will be invited to help harvest, cultivate and fertilize the land with the chefs and farmers; picking produce and turning over the soil as part of our cyclical nature of giving and receiving.

Accommodation

Overlooking the beautiful Himalayas, live the true yogic life at our Ashram. All this, while enjoying the amenities of a minimalist contemporary lifestyle for a comfortable stay. We provide simple, clean shared accommodation at our ashram. On special request single accommodation can be provided at additional cost.

Yoga Hall

The 60 x 25 ft marble floored yoga hall with ruby red stage is an expanse of space available for yoga and meditation practices. The hall is well equipped with bolsters, yoga mats, straps, supports and wooden blocks

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Yoga

by Sushant Pandey 0 Likes

A Comprehensive View on Yoga Tradition

Introduction Whenever we come across this term Yoga or hear about it, what is the first thing that comes to our minds? Some very difficult poses and complicated bodily movements right! In modern age, Asana which means Hatha Yoga Poses; captures the imagination of people’s mind. But in the tradition of Yoga Asana occupies very little space. Then the question arises what yoga is, if it is not primarily a discipline or tradition of asana? To understand that we have to understand the meaning of the term yoga. Yoga, in fact is a generic term which literally means Union. We also have to understand that fundamentally metaphysics of yoga is spiritual and it is not just a tradition of practical tools and techniques, rather it is a way of life. Traditionally, Yoga is treated as a lifestyle. Yoga simply denotes a path and a process which leads to an ultimate experience of self-actualization. To reach there, tradition of yoga presents us with various spiritual philosophies, methodologies which comprise of many different techniques and of course a recommended life-style which help establish harmony at various levels of human functioning. Yoga is not a Religion Some people may also have this misconception that Yoga is religious belief or system. On the contrary, Yoga is simply a philosophy which teaches us how to live a life with harmony, inner joy and fulfilment. And to attain this state of everlasting peace and harmony a lifestyle is recommended, which is comprised of following certain processes, instilling uplifting ethical values in life, living a healthy life-style and holding positive perspectives towards life events. All of these different guiding principles of Yogic life, aim at just one thing; as how to help an individual lead a harmonious life. A life which is full of spontaneity, inner freedom and joy. Historical sketch When you look at the development and evolution of Yogic tradition, you will find that evidences of yogic practices were found around 3000 BC. In ancient culture yogic methods and philosophy were practiced as a way of life by ancients. In Indian subcontinent, many different philosophies and cultures coexisted without having conflicts against each other. And each philosophy presented a very specific viewpoint or perspective towards reality and how to overcome human limitations and suffering. In essence collective consciousness of ancient Indian culture aimed at uplifting the quality of life through physical, mental, emotional and life-style education. Branches of Yoga Yoga is a path; a philosophy to harmonize the interactions and expressions of consciousness and energies in an individual. There are numerous methods and tools employed to reach a state of inner poise, balance and harmony. These interactions of energies and consciousness expresses on different layers of existence; creating various dimensions of human functioning and experiences. In our lives we express our energies on the physical, mental, emotional, intellectual and behavioural planes. From the grossest level; it is physical body where both energy and consciousness interact on the planes of gross energies, vitality and senses. Then on subtler plane we have the expressions of mental energies. Existence of emotional energies make us experience the emotional dimension of being. And then we do experience more subtle expressions of intellect in the form of clear, detached and refined perspective to life and events. The cumulative interactions of these various energies and consciousness present there result in the outcome of an uplifting behavioural patterns and interaction with the external environment. Establishing harmony at various planes of human existence is the goal of various yogic paths. A traditional path or branch of yoga looks after existing energies or expressions of consciousness present in certain dimension of existence. Each of these paths prescribes distinct methods to harmonize a particular level of human existence. For the purpose of understanding there are five distinct traditional branches of yoga which suit the different temperaments and help harmonize our beings. It is also to clarify before delving into this discussion that none of these levels of functioning exist in separation. There is definite interactions and interconnected amongst all of these planes of existence. This study will help the reader understand the subject matter and scope of these five traditional branches of yoga. Hatha Yoga Raja Yoga Bhakti Yoga Gyana Yoga and Karma Yoga Hatha Yoga Hatha yoga uses the body as an instrument to expand and liberate the mind. Philosophy of Tantras is the metaphysical background of Hatha Yoga. People, who see Hatha yoga merely as a system of physical discipline, should know this is one of those philosophies in India which established a direct link between Body, Mind and Energies. And secondly the founding principles of Tantras upon which Hatha Yoga tradition is based, is purely monistic, which sees a direct relationships and interconnectedness in all the different fabrics of creation. According to Tantras nothing exists in separation. All the different elements of manifestations have originated from the same source and essence of the same source of creation exists in all. The entire teaching of Tantras and Hatha Yoga focuses on tapping the essence or building blocks of creation; energy. Principles of Tantras propound that the creation is a pulsating or vibrant ‘Whole’ and very much alive. Based on the principles of interconnectedness and interaction between various levels of function, Hatha Yoga uses Body as an instrument to harmonize the mind. It says the states of body affect the mind and vice versa. But unlike Raja yoga it uses body and not mind as an instrument. Therefore most of the techniques of Hatha yoga work on the body to get the intended results. Practitioners of Hatha yoga should know that the ultimate purpose of Hatha yoga is not confined only up to body rather it works on expanding and releasing the energies of the mind-body complex. Practices of hatha yoga postures, breath-work (Pranayama), psycho-physical gestures (Mudra), psychic locks/contraction (Bandha) and cleansing practices, these all work together to harmonize the physical, mental and emotional energies of an individual. And in the due process one strives to liberate and expand the mind Results of all Hatha Yogic practices should take one to the state of elevated mind and awareness rather than getting identified/trapped within the field of body consciousness. To establish harmony at the physical and energetic planes; tradition of Hatha Yoga also emphasises on leading a very healthy life-style which consist of having sattvic foods. A food which is light on our systems, easy to digest and majorly consist of fresh and organic components. This sattvic food is consisted primarily of fresh vegetables, legumes, fruits, seeds and medicinal herbs. The wisdom says that fresh foods have enriched pranic energy which help nourish the body and harmonises mental and emotional energies. Tradition of Hatha Yoga follows the principles of Ayurveda, as far as one’s food and life-style are concerned. Just eating the food is not enough but the time you eat the food, how much you eat, what you eat, how you eat and mental attitude while you eat all these aspects are important. Even prevailing weather and climatic conditions are also considered. According to hatha Yoga and Ayurveda your foods change according to the changing weather. Following these principles one enjoys a state of health which is just a by-product of proper sync between you and the nature. Raja Yoga Raja Yoga, literally known as kingly yoga aims to tame the tendencies of the mind. Since mind is considered as the controller or master of all our behaviors and endeavor, Raja yoga is called kingly because with its help one learns to rule over the mind and its tendencies. Therefore its philosophy and practices make the entire orientation of its teaching very meditative and mindful. The teachings in this yogic philosophy create very incisive insights into the nature and tendencies of the mind. This approach of teaching makes one watch and understand the mind from the standpoint of an observer. The principles and methods discussed in the manual of this branch are highly psychotherapeutic. Techniques of meditation emphasizing on developing meditative awareness in one’s day-to-day life have roots in Raja Yoga. The metaphysical background of Raja Yoga is Samkhya Philosophy which is one of the oldest existing philosophies in India. Bhakti yoga Bhakti yoga is the path of harnessing and channeling emotional energies. In the process practitioner nurtures and develops refined and uplifting emotions, which later are directed towards divine self, deity or guru. In bhakti yoga, singing kirtan (a group devotional song), bhajan (solo devotional song) or even mantra chanting are used as tools to create and channel devotional energies towards divine principle. For the followers of bhakti yoga, it is one of the quickest ways to transcend ego and uniting with the higher self. One quote of Ramana Maharshi on Bhakti yoga sums it up very nicely. When asked; what is bhakti yoga? He says; ‘to thinks of God. That means only one thought prevails to the exclusion of all other thoughts. That is of God which is the self or it is the self-surrender unto God; when he has taken you up nothing will assail you. The absence of thoughts is bhakti. It is also mukti (liberation).’ Gyana or Jnana Yoga Jnana Yoga is the path of self-enquiry. This path of yoga seeks answers to the most fundamental queries to find truth and purpose to life. One of the most fundamental questions, a seeker contemplates upon in this path is; ‘who am I?’ Who am I' is an enquiry which shapes the journey of a spiritual aspirant. In traditional yogic discipline, Jnana yoga discusses the fundamental questions pertaining to spiritual truths, nature of reality, existence of suffering, causes of suffering and yogic processes to eliminate suffering.' In this path of Jnana yoga through listening (shravana), contemplation and meditation on pure essence i.e. self; knowledge is attained. There are methods recommended in this path to refine one’s intellect which helps cut through the layers of identification with ever changing field of reality. Karma yoga Karma is translated as action. In this path or discipline of yoga one learns harmonize one’s attitude towards actions and fruits of actions. This branch of yoga teaches us how to let go of the attachments and egoistic desires associated with our actions and their outcomes. Therefore, it involves behavioral components and ‘awareness in action’. It resets our ego driven actions and transforms them into selfless work and actions, which are more liberating and uplifting. Essentially path of karma yoga teaches to drop the attitude of doer ship and dedicating all actions to divine self. According to Swami Sivananda, having motive to serve without expectations, attitude of service, dedication in action and letting go the attachment towards the fruit of actions are the qualities one imbibe following the path of Karma Yoga. Read More...

Yoga

by Rishikesh Yogis 10 Likes

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras: 8 Limbs of Yoga

In today’s technology-ridden world, Yoga is swiftly growing attention among the western world to heal the mind, body, and spirit. There are 8 Limbs of Yoga that constitute to the completeness of healing and liberation from any entanglement. Adapted widely as a way of living by millions of people, Yoga, as an ancient technique is now accepted by medical practitioners as well. So, what are these 8 Limbs of Yoga that lead to Moksha (Liberation or Freedom from all kinds of entanglements and bounds from within)? In accordance with Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras (Principles or writings), an 8-fold path that leads to liberation is referred to as Ashtanga (‘Ashta’ meaning to ‘Eight’ and ‘Anga’ referring to ‘Limbs’) Yoga System. These are famously known as 8 Limbs of Yoga. Eight Limbs of Yoga Chart 8 Limbs of Yoga Explained There are different interpretations of these 8 Limbs of Yoga Patanjali as per different Yoga guides and ancient definitions. However, these interpretations are in accordance with Patanjali Yoga Sutra. 1) Yamas - Ethical and Social Codes Ahimsa (Non-Violence or non-harming), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya (Restraint), Aparigraha (Non-possessiveness). As said, Yamas are at the top of The 8 Limbs of Yoga and are ethical considerations to assist you with social interactions and centre yourself towards your behaviour. Ahimsa translated as, Non-Violence, teaches us work towards practising non-violence in all the forms whether deeds or thoughts and teaches oneself to self-love. Satya, meaning to truthfulness, encourages us to practice remaining truthful no matter what the circumstances are. Asteya, in English, refers to non-stealing, guides us towards non-stealing and in all the ways or forms such as material or immaterial mentioned as Stealing or withholding information. Hiding some information for self-gain is also considered as stealing. Brahmacharya is to restraint our sexual desires and gains self-control over the energy flow wisely that it does not cause any harm to others. In English, Brahmacharya is translated as Celibacy, which correctly defines the purpose of using the energy rightly. Aparigraha is to practice letting go of any greed and possessiveness. In other words, practising Aparigraha brings contentment in you also known associated with Santosha hence, constraining you from greed and lust. Lack of practice of Aaparigraha can give access to Asatya and Himsa to slide in and stake over your minds. 2) Niyamas - Moral and Personal Observance Saucha (Purity and cleanliness) Santosha (Contentment) Tapas (Austerities) Svadhayaya (Self-study and self-assessment) Ishvara Pranidhana (constant devotion to the divine source of life and existence). The Niyamas teach us to practice self-discipline and worldview and are centred inward for internal purity and sanctity whilst observing self in terms of moral and personal aspects. Saucha is to leave the state of self or surroundings pure and clean. One needs to have a pure physical, mental, and Spiritual State in order to banish the negativity as the initial step. Santosha teaches us to practice contentment with whatever we have hence, eliminating the possibilities of using inappropriate methods to seek happiness. Those who practice Santosha are far away from being touched by Greed and Himsa as they have learned about Contentment and have no greed or harsh feelings against anyone for lacking the amenities that others have. Tapas Enables us to work on self-discipline and will power. Whether our mind is ready to accept what our body does and vice-versa. Tapas is not just referred to as strenuous physical exercise, it must be practised with an aim to sustain both mental and physical hardships. Svadhyaya enlightens our path to learn about ourselves, to study ourselves and assess our deeds. A deep study of what you are, what you lack, and what you can be, is observed deeply when we practice Svadhyaya. Ishvara Pranidhana helps us to have humility and devotion to the divine power and the creator of life. Ishara Paridhana is a practice of faith and patience to meet the divine state while one frees himself from ego and merges into the Universal Force. 3) Asana - Physical Exercises Asana word is originated from the Sanskrit which means “Seat” and Physical Postures to practice in Yoga. It aims at preparing the body and mind seated correctly for meditation. Asana is also an ancient tradition to be seated near your Yoga Teacher and is based on the principle that life is filled with opportunities despite numerous hindrances. The reason why Teacher is mentioned in Asana is one needs a Teacher to learn from and bring stability amidst the ups and downs of life. Asana is a physical medium and just not a simple exercise that extends our comfort level. 4) Pranayama - Breathing Techniques Through Pranayama we practice attaining breath control just through breathing and movements of muscles in and out. Pranayama being another Sanskrit term refers to cultivating the use of Universal Life Force Prana. Pranayama is practised to improvise concentration, creativity, and clarity of focus. Different energies are required by different physical layers of our body to survive and sustain external forces. A certain amount and quality of life force need to flow through different energy channels ‘Nadis’ and energy junctions ‘Chakras’ to determine our state of mind. To give our body a smooth and constant flow of energy, pranayama is practised. 5) Pratyahara - withdrawal of the Senses Pratyahara refers to simply getting rid of distractions and attaining the utmost level of internal awareness. One who practices Pratyahara withdraws from external stimuli and elevates his senses. Constant practice of Pratyahara resultantly grows our consciousness and ability to see things as they are disregarding our perspective. It is not to silence out senses, but to quiet them to have a better and far vision. In simpler words, the energy we let go of by touching and sensing outside us gets directed back to us just by withdrawing our outward senses. 6) Dharana - One-pointed Concentration Dharana is concentrating intensely on a particular object, for example, a candle flame, a pointed object, or round small figure/image. Through Dharana you achieve stillness of mind and learn to focus on your surroundings better. Practising Dharana is a better way to realize the things, experience them, and let them go. Those practising Dharana regularly have a tendency to introspect self as well as the surroundings. Moreover, Dharana helps us bring our attention and focus to the present surroundings by allowing us to gaze deeper into thoughtfulness playing a crucial role in the next of the 8 Limbs of Yoga, ‘Meditation’. 7) Dhyana - Meditation It is rarely possible to be untouched by stress in today’s modernized world. Meditation comes in as a remedy for all sorts of stress we meet daily. Dhyana means Meditation and is an easy way to achieve peace of Mind and calm state. There are some moments when we are taken down by daily life stress and worries of the past and the future. Dhyana helps us bring ourselves into the present state and accumulates our focus calmness and clarity. Sitting in stillness, waiting for nothing to happen, and expecting nothing are the states of meditation which grows our consciousness and improvises inner strength with sound and deep sleep. Those who practice Dhyana frequently, are less prone to mental stress and depression since they have attained a level that most required to reach the state of calmness and being still despite the stress. 8) Samadhi - Merging With the Divine Source Samadhi is a state where you connect yourself with divinity going beyond the limits. It is a state where mind and body integrate to conjoin with the Universal oneness. Samadhi is the final state that is attained beyond “Dharana” and “Dhyana”. Samadhi is considered a serene and pious state where one has an absolute absence of ego since the energy of Universal Oneness emerges out of Samadhi. While meditating during Samadhi, the memory is still awake and but free from all the forces and happenings. Samadhi is one the ancient of Yogik practice that Tapasvis had been performing to reach the utmost spiritual state. Through Samadhi, fuses three the thinker, the process of thinking, and the thought into one subject. No doubt there is interlinking between all these Eight Limbs of Yoga, let us not overlook the fact that these are stringent to practice and implicate such rigidity. It is not necessary to have mastered all the Niyamas in order to perform the asana. One can still easily gain growth. The 8 Limbs of Yoga also known as Ashtanga Yoga are the root as well as the tip of the hierarchy of the ultimate Moksha even in this age. Read More...

Yoga

by Rishikesh Yogis 15 Likes

Yoga Philosophy: Yamas and Niyamas in Yoga

Yoga not only means to encourage limiting oneself to physical involvement. It is rather a path centered at the philosophy of mental and spiritual wellness. The process of Yoga itself moves from a restricted sense to move towards enlightenment. Yoga is about balancing the opposites, making oneself learn to transcend them. Yamas and Niyamas are the first two limbs in the Ashtanga Yoga Where both the terms are inherited from Sanskrit. Definition of Yamas and Niyamas: Yamas has its roots in Yam- which refers to, ‘to harness’, ‘to hold’, ‘to submit’, or ‘to rule’. Niyamas, on the other hand, refers to the Dos which, one has to practice in order to nurture the good spirit within. Niyamas is translated as “Observances” and both of the Yamas and Niyamas contribute to a better state of Awareness and consciousness in us as humans. Yoga tends not to impose a set of rules instead, it helps us lead an enlightened way to live our lives letting us question ourselves. Origin and Purpose: The question is not whether something is good or bad, it is to avoid us or restrain us from the deeds that put us in the circumstances eventually making us question our own actions. This is where Yamas and Niyamas step in, where we get to decide how to aid the good and positive and how to neglect the bad and negative. Yamas are the guidelines that enable to maintain social balance with people surrounding us and focus on our social life (Social Ethics) whereas Niyamas enable us to focus on our personal practices assisting us to develop our inner selves. The motive is to pull or push ourselves (the inner and outer) to a balanced level to bring ourselves into order and contented state. Consider the example of balancing the growing needs and escalating the level of our working capacity here, what can we do ourselves to improvise the working capacity and reducing the needs. The purpose should be an ideal state since we are emphasizing on both to overcome this state of imbalance. The purpose of Yama-Niyama is to bring ourselves into a state of mental or emotional stability hence retaining the physiological state in the state of equilibrium with the former. The state achieved then, is called Sukha Sthanam. As Lord Krishna states in the Bhagavad Gita that the one who has reached the state of equilibrium or outgrown the pairs of opposites, he has overcome the obstacles of the extremes situations he had faced. We do not solve a problem, we outgrow one. As said in The Bhagavad Gita. And the one who has conquered the first and last five jewels of Yamas and Niyamas has truly achieved the state as described in the Bhagavad Gita in verse II : 48 as, “Yogastha Kurukarmani Sangham Tyaktva Dhananjaya, Siddhaya Asiddhayo Samabhutva, Samatvam Yoga Uchyate”, which refers to a balanced approach to any and every situation (whether success or failure) as Samatvam (Equanimity). The Five Yamas of Yoga: The Pancha Yamas or (the five jewels) are: Ahimsa (Non-Violence), Satya (Truthfulness), Asteya (Non-Stealing), Brahmacharya (Continence/Walking with God), Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness). Ahimsa: Ahimsa is not harming or injuring any living being which aims at banishing the trait of a beast from our humans which conforms to not hurting any kind of living creature neither no just killing. The latter jewels are all based on the first one Ahimsa. One who practices Ahimsa, must not even possess unkind thoughts towards others. It is contrary to Himsa which can be any form viz. mistreating your inferiors or bad mouthing about others. Satya: The second of the five Yamas is Satya which refers to truthfulness. Thoughts must harmonize with words and words with actions. Suppose you are in a temple or at a funeral and at the same time you think of copulating with someone, and you calm people with condolences at the same time. The self is the truth which can only be achieved by speaking of truth which cannot be achieved by lying as it disturbs your subconscious mind. It is said that if you speak of truth for twelve continuous years, you acquire Vaak Siddhi (Whatever you say comes to pass). Your influence will be over many people as you achieve great power in your speech. Asteya: This is a form of restraint that means to non-stealing. This puts to question ourselves why do we steal? We do so to gain something using illegitimate means since we lack the ability to get it through legit means. The reason could be any of greed, desire, or lust that triggers us to steal. A nibble of bread, or a stack of money, stealing is stealing. Besides, eating more than required, hoarding too much money, or serving to your cravings is also a form of stealing. Brahmacharya: Brahmacharya is practicing continence and when controlled, the part of human energy which is expressed in the sexual union gets channelized into special spiritual energy called ojas shakti and is stored up in the brain. Brahmacharya is a term composed of two different words “Brahma” and “Charya” referring to having a routine as of God. What its literal meaning refers to is to have restrained the sexual desire and not to suppress it. Restraint works towards spiritual consciousness whereas suppressed sexual desire works towards nothing but downfall as sooner or later these desires outgrow your conscience and may harm you or others. Aparigraha: The fifth of Yamas is Aparigraha which, on the contrary means, abstinence of covetousness or greed. This, in other words, refers to kill the craving or the traits that lead you towards anxiety, fear, anger, etc. Aparigraha assists oneself to achieve a contented and enlightened life diminishing the fear, anger, jealousy, and or depression. Aparigraha walks along while practicing Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya. When Craving is uncontrolled, anger takes over and when you are unable to possess something, you try to steal it or grow envious of anyone who has it. Even, you try stealing or lying in order to attain it. Aparigraha banishes all these and is treated as the foundation of all Yogas. The Five Niyamas of Yoga: Niyamas consist of five limbs that are Shaucha (Purity; Internal and External), Santosha (Contentment), Tapas (Austerity/ Asceticism), Swadhyaya (Self-Study), and Ishwara Parnidhana (Surrender to Divinity). Shaucha: Shaucha is attaining a state of purity, both internal and external. External purity generates internal purity and internal purity nurtures the external one, hence, both are correlated. Removing lust, greed, or anger, contributed to internal purification. For instance, a morning bath helps one to adapt to a calm and peaceful mood as compared to not taking bath early in the morning. Our mind becomes unidirectional and cheerful instilled with love and patience. Santosha: Santosha is the key to cut all the craving and desires and to gain satisfaction. The one in practice of Santosha succeeds in all the walks of life as he is untouched by Himsa, Greed, Lust, and jealousy. He remains the same in whatever condition he is put in. Contentment is accepting things as they are and to make the best of whatever comes. Tapas: It is practicing Yoga through dynamic methods. It talks years of practice to turn oneself into a Tapasvi (The one who has mastered his senses through meditation) as this is to do something that your will is against but you have to do it to have a positive effect on your life. When our will conflicts with the desire of our mind an internal “fire” are created which burns up our mental and physical impurities. It results in full control of the mind which also builds endurance and strength (both mental and physical). Mental Tapas are considered more powerful than Physical Tapas. It is obvious from the difference as one who bears physical stress may not seem to bear an insult or argument. Swadhyaya: Swa means self and Adhyaya means study hence completing the meaning of this word to Study of Self in other words, Introspection of self. In practice of Swadhyaya, you inquire yourself about yourself and in your context only. Swadhyaya is an indirect Satsang where only you are in the company of yourself and pose questions to self about yourself only. In this scenario, you are the wise and you are a seeker. Swadhyaya gives a pointed direction and helps us meditate and focus on inner-self including the surroundings. Ishwara Pranidhana: Surrendering all the fruits of efforts to God or the superior power with selflessness and devotion. Through this simple act of dedication we become reminded of our relationship with our higher power, and what we practice becomes sacred and graceful, filled with inner peace, unbound love. While surrendering his will to the Divine power the devotee’s will is in confluence with the lord. The divine influence streams into his existence and transforms it into a fit medium for divine realization and divine instrumentality. Note: We must bear in mind that all five Yamas and Niyamas are not separate but different entities. Indivisible but connected with each other, all the Yamas and Niyamas are inter-linked and codependent on each other. As a practitioner of Yamas and Niyamas, we go along a journey taking one step at a time. Without expecting results, one needs to have patience and be selflessly compassionate of what he practices. Read More...

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