In yoga there is a principle called niyama, the second limb in Patanjali’s system. It is both a philosophical postulate and an important element of entering practice and coming into contact with yourself. More important than memorising the postulates is understanding their essence, because that understanding gives the whole process unity and wholeness.
At the heart of niyama lies benevolence: the ability to look at yourself kindly and with warmth. It relieves inner tension, creates the possibility of healing many wounds from the period of personality formation, and brings softness to the internal organs. That softness is essential in asana practice so that we do not injure connective tissue and so that we can hear the range and amplitude of movements that do not harm muscles, ligaments, or joints.
Niyama includes:
- Shaucha – purity of body and mind;
- Santosha – contentment;
- Tapas – ardour and discipline;
- Svadhyaya – self-study and self-education;
- Ishvara pranidhana – surrender to God and dedication of one’s merits to the Supreme.