Yama

Yama
is sanskrit.
It refers to self-discipline, restraint, or even morals.

In the Eightfold path of Yoga, Yama is the first step. It literally means to restrain. Every step of yoga is personalized and suited for each individual, but there are five general consistencies associated with Yama in the Eightfold yoga path.


Ahimsa. (.harmlessness.) - The word ahimsa literally mean not to injure or show cruelty to any creature or any person in any way whatsoever. This includes in our actions, words, or thoughts.


Satya. (.truthfulness.) - When someone speaks with honesty, it holds more power than the average person is aware of. It causes a subtle vibration to run through the persons body, and other people notice it. It builds character. When we speak truth, we learn more about ourselves as well.

Asteya. (non-theft) - Steya means "to steal"; asteya is the opposite-to take nothing that does not belong to us. This also means that if we are in a situation where someone entrusts something to us or confides in us, we do not take advantage of him or her.

Brahmacharya - Energy Control. Specifically dealing with sexual energy. Restraining the scattered energy which originates from our Being, and storing it.

Aparigraha. (non-grasping) - Refers to our natural instinct to latch onto, or grasp things that cause of joy. Perphaps the most difficult of all yamas, it suggests that we should sit in our aloneness, our anxiety. Not to find happiness in running away, or tuning out.