Description

This book is a spiritual guide exploring the first two limbs of the eight-fold path outlined in the yoga sutras, considered the fundamental text of classical yoga teaching. These foundational principles form the essence of yogic philosophy, providing critical guidelines for living a yoga-centered life, empowering individuals to take responsibility for their own well-being, and guiding them toward the fulfillment and clarity they desire. The practical insights within help readers gain deeper skills in choosing their own attitudes, thoughts, and actions.

The first five guidelines are called yamas—from a Sanskrit word meaning “restraints”—and include: nonviolence, truthfulness, not stealing, nonexcess, and nonpossessiveness. The next five guidelines are known as niyamas, or “observances,” which include purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study, and surrender. At the end of each chapter, readers will find valuable self-reflection sections which may also be utilized by instructors as discussion points in group settings.