Definition

Pronunciation: nee-YAH-mah

Observance; personal discipline; positive duty

About Niyama

The niyamas are the five personal observances forming the second limb of yoga. They are: *saucha* (cleanliness), *santosha* (contentment), *tapas* (discipline/heat), *svadhyaya* (self-study), and *ishvara pranidhana* (surrender to a higher power).

While yamas govern behavior toward others, niyamas govern behavior toward oneself. They cultivate the inner qualities needed for spiritual progress: a clean body and mind, contentment with what is, disciplined effort, reflective self-knowledge, and humility before the mystery of existence.

The niyamas build the positive qualities that support meditation. Tapas generates the heat needed to purify the system. Svadhyaya provides the understanding to know what we're doing. Ishvara pranidhana releases the ego's grip that would claim results. Together they create the conditions for deeper practice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Niyama mean?

Observance; personal discipline; positive duty

Which tradition does Niyama come from?

Niyama is a key term in yoga.

How is Niyama used in practice?

The niyamas are the five personal observances forming the second limb of yoga. They are: *saucha* (cleanliness), *santosha* (contentment), *tapas* (discipline/heat), *svadhyaya* (self-study), and *ishvara pranidhana* (surrender to a higher power).