Perhaps you've already come across a guidebook that recommends living according to the Niyama code of conduct. They often promise self-purification, valuable self-knowledge, and a generally better quality of life. However, you haven't yet fully grasped it. We want to help you: We explain in simple terms what the code is and what you might be able to achieve by following it.
Niyama: The second stage of Raya Yoga
The Indian scholar Patanjali wrote the fundamental text of yoga in the form of the Yoga Sutras more than 2,000 years ago. He described his " Raya Yoga " as " Ashtanga ," or "eight-stage/eight-limbed." The second stage/level is Nimaya—it follows Yama (the "interpersonal ethics").
While Yama sets out principles for living with others, Niyama sets the rules for living with yourself. Simply put, it's about achieving a form of self-control through which you can achieve greater inner contentment. The code consists of five guiding principles:
- Sauca
- Samtosa
- Tapas
- Svadhyaya
- Ishvarapranidhana
Sauca
Sauca refers to internal and external cleansing or purity. External cleanliness simply refers to physical hygiene. Internally, sauca, on the other hand, represents a dual goal. On the one hand, physical functions should not be blocked. This requires, for example, a healthy diet. On the other hand, purity of mind should also be achieved. The asanas (yoga postures), kyrias (special cleansing exercises), and pranayama (breathing exercises) help with this.
Samtosa
Samtosa is the Sanskrit word for modesty and contentment. Through this rule, Niyama encourages not to expect too much and then be disappointed. Instead, one should accept things as they are. Furthermore, one should not compare oneself with others but focus on one's own achievements.
Tapas
Tapas means "heating" or "burning." This means that people should stay healthy and fit. Patanjali primarily focused on breathing exercises. Over time, however, the meaning has broadened. Regular physical exercise describes this rule of the Niyama, as does mindful eating. Overall, it's about giving the body a chance to detoxify itself. This refers not only to the toxins that have accumulated within it, but also to psychological stress. Through tapas, these are supposed to be burned through the body's own fire (Agni).
Svadhyaya
Svadhyaya is the Sanskrit word for "self-reflection." It means critically observing one's own actions and thoughts in order to become more aware of the hidden motives behind one's actions. Svadhyaya also refers to living according to guiding role models. Patanjali, for example, recommended studying ancient texts with a spiritual, philosophical, or religious background. Today, it is defined more broadly. You should be inspired by the example of a self-realized master.
Ishvarapranidhana
Ishvarapranidhana (sometimes also Ishvara Pranidhana), as part of the Niyama, means something like "trust in God." Specifically, it means that you should entrust yourself to the guidance of a higher power. You should understand all challenges in life as divine tasks intended to give you strength. The idea behind it is to let go of fears and doubts and trust that the divine power will show you the right path—it works even through our mistakes and knows what we need. Ideally, you go through everyday life no longer worrying about what will happen; otherwise, you consciously experience and enjoy the here and now.
Conclusion: A lot of familiar things in a compact form
You've probably heard many of these principles before, in this or a similar form. The great advantage of the Niyama is that you find all the rules in a compact form, making them easier to follow.
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