Table Of Contents
- What is Yam-Niyam
- Yam-Niyam in Various Yogic Texts
- Types of Yam and Niyam Mentioned by Maharishi Patanjali
- — Main Yam —
- 1) Ahimsa (Non-violence)
- 2) Satya (The Truth)
- 3) Astey (Non stealing)
- 4) Brahmcharya (Celibacy)
- 5) Aparigrah (Non-possession)
- — Main Niyam —
- 1) Shauch (Purity)
- 2) Santosh (Satisfaction)
- 3) Tap (Austerity)
- 4) Swadhyay (Study of self)
- 5) Ishwar Pranidhan (Surrender to Deity)
- — Secondary Yam-Niyam —
- — Secondary Yam —
- — Secondary Niyam —
- — Wrapping Up —
— What is Yam-Niyam —
In simple terms, Yam-Niyam refers to the guidelines of what to follow and what to avoid—essentially, the Do’s and Don’ts (Vihit Karma and Nishiddh Karma). These principles are not only central to Ashtang Yog but are also fundamental to all ancient systems of yog. They serve as the essential groundwork for a meaningful yogic journey.
Yam refers to voluntary restraint or self-control. In the context of yog, it extends beyond personal discipline and is deeply tied to one’s ethical and social conduct. Yama are moral guidelines or codes of behavior that promote restraint and instill ethical values. Because they guide external conduct and purity, they are often considered laws of moral discipline. Practicing Yam brings harmony and well-being both to the individual and to society at large.
Niyam means discipline, observance, or internal regulation. In yog, it refers to the inner discipline applied to both body and mind. Niyams are personal ethical codes intended to cleanse mental and physical impurities. Their practice supports physical health, mental clarity, and inner peace. Together, Yam and Niyam help avoid harm to the body and mind, and they cultivate qualities such as selflessness, discipline, inner joy, focused concentration, and spiritual strength. Ultimately, they lead the practitioner toward self-mastery and self-realization—the true goal of yog.
— Yam-Niyam: The Yogi's Code of Conduct —
Yam and Niyam form the ethical foundation of a yogic lifestyle, serving as a code of conduct prescribed by ancient sages for the overall well-being of humanity. Their observance benefits not only dedicated yog practitioners but also common individuals seeking a balanced life.
Yam, which focuses on moral discipline and social behavior, plays a crucial role in purifying one’s actions and interactions. It is often regarded as a form of social ethics or religion.
Niyam, on the other hand, is centered on personal discipline and internal purification, acting as a powerful tool for self-development and refinement.
Although distinct in their focus—Yam relating to morality and Niyam to self-discipline—they are deeply interconnected. Morality is nurtured through disciplined conduct, and disciplined conduct is strengthened by moral intention. Together, they form an inseparable framework that supports personal and spiritual growth.
Pure behavior stems from pure thoughts, and pure thoughts are cultivated through ethical and disciplined living. A life lacking in discipline and morality inevitably leads to suffering in the form of mental, physical, or spiritual disturbances (Aadhi, Vyadhi, and Upadhi). Therefore, anyone committed to serious yogic practice (Sadhana) must embrace Yam and Niyam with sincerity and dedication.
The World Health Organization now defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, social, and spiritual well-being—not merely the absence of disease.” By this definition, true health is rare. However, the consistent practice of Yam and Niyam offers a reliable path to achieving this ideal state. Only through them can one attain comprehensive physical vitality, mental clarity, social harmony, and spiritual upliftment.
— Yam-Niyam in Various Yogic Texts —
1. Yam (Restraints or Ethical Disciplines)
The concept of Yam is well-documented across several ancient yogic texts. A total of 18 Yams are mentioned collectively in scriptures such as the Trishikhibrahmanopanishad, Jabaldarshanopanishad, Shandilyopanishad, Yogadarshanopanishad, Varahopanishad, Yogiyajnavalkya, Hathayogapradipika, and Vasisthasamhita.
These include: 1) Truth (Satya), 2) Non-violence (Ahimsa), 3) Non-stealing (Astey), 4) Celibacy (Brahmacharya), 5) Forgiveness (Kshama), 6) Patience (Dhruti), 7) Kindness (Daya), 8) Simplicity (Aarjav), 9) Moderation in diet (Mitahar), and 10) Cleanliness or Purity (Shauch).
Other texts mention fewer Yams.
Shiv Samhita includes seven Yams, excluding Daya, Aarjav, and Shauch.
Patanjali’s Yogasutras identify five Yams — Ahimsa, Satya, Astey, Brahmacharya, and Aparigrah (non-possession).
Yogatattv Upanishad lists only two Yams: Ahimsa and Mitahar.
Gorakshasamhita also mentions two — Brahmacharya and Mitahar. Some texts like the
Yogakundalupanishad, Dhyan Bindu Upanishad, and Gheranda Samhita refer to just one Yam each: Brahmacharya in Dhyan Bindu, and Mitahar in the other two.
Even the Bhagavad Gita references the importance of Mitahar in yogic life.
2. Niyam (Personal Disciplines or Observances)
In parallel, the concept of Niyam focuses on personal discipline and internal purification. A set of 10 Niyams is found in texts such as the Shandilyopanishad, Yogadarshanopanishad, Varahopanishad, Yogiyajnavalkya, and Vasisthasamhita.
These are: 1) Contentment (Santosh), 2) Austerity (Tap), 3) Worship of God (Ishwar Pranidhan), 4) Faith (Aastikya), 5) Charity (Daan), 6) Listening to Scriptures (Siddhant Shravan), 7) Remorse or inner shame (Hrim), 8) Spiritual intellect (Mati), 9) Chanting of mantras (Jap), and 10) Observing vows (Vrat).
Hath Yog Pradipika excludes Jap and Vrat, but adds Hom (fire ritual), presenting nine Niyams.
Trishikhibrahmanopanishad lists eight Niyams, excluding Mati and Vrat.
Jabaldarshanopanishad mentions six Niyams, the first six from the list above.
Shiv Samhita names five Niyams from the main set — Tap, Siddhant Shravan, Hrim, Mati, and Jap — and also adds four more: Hom, Guru devotion (Gurubhakti), Detachment (Vairagya), and Purity (Shauch), making a total of nine Niyams.
Mandalabrahmanopanishad describes six Niyams: Santosh, Aastikya, Gurubhakti, Vairagya, Solitude (Ekantvaas), and Renunciation of desire (Falechchha Tyag).
Together, these detailed lists of Yams and Niyams across different texts illustrate their vital role in shaping a practitioner’s ethical and personal discipline. They are foundational elements that lead to purification of body and mind, ultimately guiding the seeker toward spiritual growth and self-realization.
— Types of Yam and Niyam Mentioned
by Maharishi Patanjali —
Maharishi Patanjali, in his renowned work Yog Sutras, has classified the foundational principles of ethical living into five primary Yams and five primary Niyams. These ten disciplines form the moral and personal code of conduct essential for any sincere yog practitioner. The Yams represent the social and ethical restraints that guide our interactions with others, while the Niyams focus on personal discipline and internal growth.
Patanjali emphasized these tenets as the first two limbs of the eightfold path (Ashtang Yog), which ultimately leads to spiritual liberation. While these core principles form the basis of yogic discipline, several other ancient yogic scriptures have elaborated upon them and introduced additional or secondary Yams and Niyams. These variations highlight the depth and diversity of yogic teachings found across different traditions. In the following sections, we will first explore the Yams and Niyams as defined by Maharishi Patanjali and then delve into the additional interpretations presented in other important yogic texts.
— Main Yam —
As stated above, Yam refers to ethical restraints or moral disciplines that guide a yog practitioner’s behavior in society. It is the first limb of Patanjali’s Ashtang Yog and lays the foundation for spiritual growth and inner peace. Yam emphasizes self-control and promotes values that foster harmony in human interactions. The five core Yams defined by Maharishi Patanjali are: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Astey (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy or moderation), and Aparigrah (non-possessiveness). Practicing Yam purifies thoughts, speech, and actions, enabling one to lead a righteous life. It cultivates discipline, compassion, and moral strength essential for deeper yogic practices.
Let us now learn each of these Yams in detail.
1) Ahimsa (Non-violence)
Ahimsa, or non-violence, is one of the most fundamental principles in the yogic path and means abstaining from causing harm to any living being through thoughts, words, or actions. This includes not only refraining from physical violence but also avoiding verbal abuse, harsh criticism, and negative or hostile thinking. True Ahimsa requires a commitment to kindness, compassion, and understanding toward all beings—whether they are humans, animals, or even insects. It encourages us to be mindful of our behavior, ensuring that we do not hurt others either directly or indirectly.
Practicing Ahimsa extends beyond mere restraint—it is a conscious effort to live harmoniously, promote peace, and embody love in our daily lives. It teaches us to respond with patience rather than anger and to cultivate forgiveness instead of revenge. This virtue nurtures emotional balance and helps dissolve feelings of hatred or resentment. Over time, Ahimsa purifies the heart, strengthens relationships, and creates a peaceful environment within and around us. It is not just a moral guideline but a transformative spiritual discipline that lays the foundation for higher yogic practices.
2) Satya (The Truth)
Satya, or truthfulness, is the practice of being honest and sincere in thought, speech, and action. It involves refraining from deceit, manipulation, or falsehoods in any form. Practicing Satya means aligning your inner thoughts with your spoken words and outward actions, ensuring there is harmony between what you think, say, and do. It also requires mindfulness and restraint, as one must avoid exaggerations, lies, or harmful truths that might hurt others unnecessarily. The essence of Satya lies not only in speaking the truth but in doing so with kindness, clarity, and compassion.
Living truthfully nurtures positive relationships, builds trust, and strengthens moral character. It also purifies the mind and heart, making space for peace and spiritual growth. As one practices truthfulness regularly, the Sattva Gun—or purity and clarity of consciousness—begins to grow. With the rise in sattva, a person experiences greater calmness, improved focus, and the unfolding of deeper mental and spiritual abilities. Satya thus becomes not just a moral ideal, but a path toward inner transformation and lasting peace.
3) Astey (Non stealing)
Astey, which means non-stealing, is the moral commitment to not take anything that does not rightfully belong to you. The word “Stey” refers to stealing, while “Astey” is its opposite—abstaining from theft in all forms. This includes not only physical possessions but also ideas, time, credit, or opportunities that belong to others. Even desiring or intending to take something without the owner’s permission violates the principle of Astey. It encourages integrity and respect for others’ boundaries, property, and efforts.
At its root, the tendency to steal often arises from feelings of greed, insecurity, or envy. By cultivating contentment and gratitude, one can reduce these negative impulses and follow the path of Astey with greater ease. A person who lives by this principle earns trust and respect in society. Stealing, on the other hand, damages one’s self-esteem and social reputation, and it creates inner unrest. Observing Astey clears the way for self-growth, mental peace, and the development of a noble character.
4) Brahmcharya (Celibacy)
Brahmacharya, often translated as celibacy or self-restraint, refers to the conscious renunciation of sexual indulgence through thought, speech, and action. In the yogic tradition, Brahmacharya is not merely the absence of sexual activity but a disciplined way of living that conserves and redirects one’s vital energy (ojas) toward higher spiritual pursuits. For yog practitioners, this means rising above sensual desires and focusing on inner growth. It involves mastering one’s impulses and living with awareness, purity, and discipline.
While complete celibacy is often recommended for ascetics and advanced spiritual seekers, even householders are advised to exercise moderation and control over their senses. This restraint strengthens the mind, protects physical vitality, and promotes emotional stability. When practiced sincerely, Brahmacharya fosters clarity, concentration, and spiritual awakening. On the other hand, indulgence in sensory pleasures, particularly uncontrolled sexual activity, is said to deplete one’s energy and accelerate physical and mental decline, leading to illness, aging, and untimely death.
5) Aparigrah (Non-possession)
Aparigrah, meaning non-possession or non-hoarding, encourages a lifestyle of simplicity, contentment, and detachment from material belongings. Derived from the root word Parigrah, which means to accumulate or collect, Aparigrah calls for a conscious refusal to acquire more than one truly needs. In the yogic path, this principle teaches the practitioner to live with minimalism and to avoid the excessive pursuit of material goods, which often stems from greed and insecurity.
Aparigrah promotes inner freedom by reducing dependency on external objects. When one is content with what is earned through righteous means and lives without unnecessary accumulation, life becomes simpler and more peaceful. The practice of non-possession also lessens anxiety and competition, allowing the mind to turn inward. On the contrary, the habit of hoarding fosters restlessness, strengthens attachment, and ultimately leads to suffering. Ethical restraint and moderation help cultivate clarity, stability, and spiritual growth, making Aparigrah a vital support for a tranquil and focused life.
Maharishi Patanjali referred to these five Yams as “Mahavrats,” meaning great vows. They transcend time and place, serving as universal principles that everyone should follow at all times, regardless of circumstances. These Yams are essential ethical guidelines to be practiced consistently in social life.
— Main Niyam —
As stated above, Niyams are personal observances or disciplines in yog that focus on self-care and inner development. They serve as guidelines for maintaining purity, contentment, and spiritual growth within oneself. The five main Niyams taught by Maharishi Patanjali include Shauch (cleanliness), Santosh (contentment), Tap (austerity), Swadhyay (self-study), and Ishvarapranidhan (surrender to a higher power). Practicing these principles helps cultivate inner peace, self-discipline, and devotion, leading to a balanced and harmonious life. Niyams complement the Yams and support the practitioner’s journey toward self-realization. Let us learn in detail about each Niyam to fully grasp their importance and how to apply them in daily life.
1) Shauch (Purity)
Shauch, meaning purity or cleanliness, is a fundamental principle in yog that emphasizes both physical and mental purification. Physical purity involves maintaining cleanliness of the body through regular bathing, wearing clean clothes, and following a balanced diet that nourishes and detoxifies the system. Proper eating habits and drinking pure water are essential to keep the internal organs healthy and free from toxins. This physical cleansing helps create a strong, healthy body, which is vital for sustaining rigorous yogic practices.
Mental purification is equally important and involves cleansing the mind of negative thoughts, impurities, and distractions. This can be achieved by engaging with sacred texts, listening to the wisdom of saints or enlightened teachers, and regularly reflecting on spiritual teachings. Repetition and contemplation of these teachings help purify the mind, fostering clarity, calmness, and focus.
Without both physical and mental purity, progress on the yogic path becomes difficult or painful. A pure body and mind create the ideal foundation for meditation, self-discipline, and spiritual growth. Therefore, practitioners are encouraged to adopt habits that promote cleanliness and purity, enabling a harmonious and fruitful yog practice.
2) Santosh (Satisfaction)
Santosh, or contentment, means being truly satisfied and at peace with whatever one has achieved through honest and sincere efforts. It is the ability to accept life’s circumstances without craving for more or feeling restless. Contentment brings genuine happiness because it encourages the mind to appreciate what is already present, rather than constantly seeking external possessions or achievements. This inner happiness becomes a source of strength and stability.
There is a well-known Gujarati proverb, “Santoshi Nar Sada Sukhi,” meaning “A content person is always happy.” This highlights the timeless truth that true happiness arises not from external abundance but from an inner sense of fulfillment.
3) Tap (Austerity)
A key aspect of asceticism is the ability to patiently and joyfully endure both physical and mental suffering. This does not mean simply tolerating pain but embracing hardships with a calm and positive attitude. Such acceptance helps develop inner strength and resilience, which are essential qualities for anyone committed to spiritual growth and self-discipline. By facing difficulties without resistance, the practitioner cultivates a mindset that remains steady amid life’s challenges.
Through the practice of austerities, the body and mind undergo purification, which leads to an increase in Sattva Gun — the quality of purity, harmony, and balance. This enhancement of Sattva brings about greater clarity, mental calmness, and overall well-being. With a purified and strengthened mind, the practitioner gains the mental fortitude necessary to continue the demanding journey of yog. This joyful endurance of suffering ultimately supports steady progress on the spiritual path and fosters lasting peace.
4) Swadhyay (Study of self)
The term “Swa” refers to one’s own soul or inner self, while “Adhyayan” means study or learning. Combined, “Svadhyay” signifies the practice of deeply studying and understanding one’s own soul. This process involves turning the mind inward, away from external distractions and sensory objects, allowing the practitioner to connect with their true inner nature. When the restless, outward-focused mind becomes calm and introspective, it creates the space for self-awareness and the exploration of one’s spiritual essence.
Svadhyay also encompasses the disciplined study of sacred scriptures and spiritual texts that guide the seeker toward self-realization. It includes the regular practice of yog and meditation as tools to deepen this inner inquiry. Moreover, Svadhyay involves ongoing self-reflection and honest evaluation of one’s thoughts, actions, and intentions. Together, these practices nurture a deeper understanding of the self, fostering growth in wisdom and spiritual insight.
5) Ishwar Pranidhan (Surrender to Deity)
Ishwar refers to Sagun Brahma, or God — the supreme, all-pervading divine power that governs the universe. Pranidhan means complete surrender or wholehearted dedication. Together, Ishwar Pranidhan signifies the deep faith in God as the ultimate power, coupled with sincere worship and emotional devotion. This practice involves trusting God’s will, offering one’s actions and thoughts with reverence, and cultivating a loving connection to the divine presence in everyday life.
Through Ishwar Pranidhan, the practitioner cultivates humility and surrender, which serve as essential steps toward spiritual liberation. It is considered the highest path to attain ‘Samadhi’ — a state of profound union and oneness with God. upon experiencing Samadhi, the seeker transcends all worldly limitations and becomes free from the bonds of nature, achieving ultimate peace and spiritual freedom.
Maharishi Patanjali described these five Niyams as essential personal disciplines for spiritual growth. They are timeless and universal, meant to be practiced consistently regardless of place or circumstance. Niyams guide individual behavior and self-purification, helping practitioners maintain inner balance and progress on the path of yog.
— The secondary Yam-Niyam —
Several other ancient Yog scriptures mention additional or secondary Yams and Niyams beyond those outlined by Maharishi Patanjali. These texts expand on the principles of ethical and personal discipline, offering a broader range of guidelines for both social conduct and self-purification. They emphasize qualities such as kindness, charity, patience, and spiritual devotion, highlighting diverse paths toward self-improvement and harmony with others. Together, these secondary Yam-Niyam provide a more comprehensive framework for living a balanced and virtuous life.
Let’s explore these qualities with short descriptions to better understand their significance and how they contribute to spiritual growth and daily life.
— Secondary Yam —
1) Kshama (Forgiveness):
Forgiveness is the quality of not harboring anger or hatred towards anyone, regardless of whether they agree or disagree with one’s personal beliefs or actions. It involves cultivating patience and tolerance even in challenging situations. Forgiveness is often regarded as the mark of a courageous and strong individual, and it holds special significance for yogis on their spiritual path, as it helps to dissolve resentment and foster inner peace.
2) Dhruti (Patience):
Dhruti refers to the steadfast commitment to uphold virtues and temperance consistently, even when faced with difficulties or adversity. It is the ability to remain calm, composed, and dutiful under pressure without wavering. This quality strengthens one’s resolve, enabling the practitioner to persevere on the path of spiritual discipline with unwavering dedication.
3) Daya (Kindness):
Kindness is characterized by genuine compassion and empathy towards others as well as oneself. It means rejoicing in the happiness of others and feeling sorrow for their suffering. A kind person actively seeks to alleviate the pain of those in distress through sincere and faithful efforts, promoting harmony and goodwill in society.
4) Arjav (Simplicity):
Arjav signifies simplicity and honesty in mind, body, and senses. It involves living free from selfish motives, deceit, or hypocrisy. This quality encourages transparency and straightforwardness in one’s behavior, fostering trust and purity in relationships and actions.
5) Mitahar (Moderation in Diet):
Mitahar is the practice of eating in moderation, typically consuming slightly less than what one’s hunger demands. This mindful approach to food helps maintain a healthy and balanced body and mind, which is essential for effective yog practice and overall wellbeing. It promotes self-control and prevents overindulgence.
— Secondary Niyam —
1) Astikya (Theism):
Astikya refers to having unwavering faith in the existence of God and firmly believing in the teachings of the scriptures. It also involves living life in alignment with the principles laid out in sacred texts and cultivating fear or caution towards actions forbidden by those scriptures. Such theistic conviction forms the foundation for moral and spiritual discipline.
2) Daan (Donation):
Daan means offering help to those in need with compassion, using wealth that has been earned through righteous means. True charity is not just about giving, but giving with a pure heart. According to scriptures, it is advised that every individual should donate at least ten percent of their income for noble and selfless causes.
3) Siddhant Sravaṇ (Listening to Scriptures):
This involves attentively listening to the teachings of the scriptures from a realized teacher or a knowledgeable person. It includes contemplation and reflection on the spiritual truths conveyed in those teachings. Such listening, when done sincerely, helps internalize spiritual wisdom and strengthens one’s understanding of the divine path.
4) Hrim (Guilt/Remorse):
Hrim is the feeling of guilt or shame after committing a wrongful act, especially in social conduct or spiritual discipline. It is not only the awareness of having done something wrong but also the sincere resolve to correct the mistake and not repeat it. This quality promotes moral integrity and inner purification.
5) Mati (Spiritual Intellect):
Mati is the refined intellect that guides a person towards divine realization. It involves having a clear and focused understanding of the path shown by scriptures and following it with dedication. Such an intellect is rooted in faith, discernment, and a sincere desire to attain unity with God through spiritual knowledge and practice.
— Wrapping Up —
Yam and Niyam are the foundational pillars of the yogic way of life, guiding both external conduct and inner discipline. While Yam teaches us how to behave harmoniously with others through values like non-violence, truth, and non-possessiveness, Niyam emphasizes personal purity, contentment, and devotion. Together, they purify the body, mind, and soul, preparing the practitioner for deeper stages of yog. Observing Yam and Niyam not only leads to self-control and mental clarity but also brings inner peace and spiritual upliftment. Their consistent practice gradually transforms the seeker’s life into one of simplicity, purpose, and divine awareness. Thus, Yam and Niyam are not just moral codes but essential tools for holistic development and true liberation.
