The 8 Limbs of Yoga - Yama, the 1st Limb

Yama - The 1st Limb of Yoga

As part of our journey through the 8 limbs of yoga, we begin with Yama, the ethical principles that help guide us in how we relate to others and the world. Whilst they come from an ancient tradition, they’re still deeply relevant to our modern lives.

There are five Yama’s, and here’s a little more on each one, including ways you can explore them day-to-day:

1. Ahimsa – Non-violence
This is about choosing kindness in thought, word, and action.
Ideas for practicing: Speak kindly to yourself, even when you’re frustrated. Skip harsh self-criticism. Try choosing plant-based meals once or twice a week. Avoid reacting with anger, and take a breath before responding.

2. Satya – Truthfulness
Being honest with yourself and others, whilst also practising compassion.
Ideas for practicing: Say how you really feel when asked, rather than what you think others want to hear. Be authentic in your yoga practice – don’t force poses that don’t feel right. Try journaling for a few minutes in the morning to check in with your inner truth.

3. Asteya – Non-stealing
Respecting what isn’t ours – this includes time, energy, attention.
Ideas for practicing: Arrive on time to your engagements, whether that’s a meeting, appointment or lunch with a friend. Avoid interrupting others. Ask before borrowing something. Notice if you’re taking more than your share – of conversation, space, or even emotional support.

4. Brahmacharya – Moderation
Traditionally about conserving energy, now often interpreted as balance in all areas of life.
Ideas for practicing: Limit time spent on screens or social media. Create a bedtime routine that helps you sleep well. Notice what truly nourishes you, and say no to what drains your energy unnecessarily.

5. Aparigraha – Non-possessiveness
Letting go of attachment to things, outcomes, or identities.
Ideas for practicing: Declutter a drawer or shelf or even your whole home. Let go of comparing your progress to others’. Trust that you are already enough, exactly as you are.

Rather than something to “perfect”, Yama offer opportunities for reflection and gentle shifts. Practicing yoga on and off the mat is exactly that, a practice.

No-one is perfect, after all, we are all perfectly imperfect humans, but just being aware of the ethical principles of Yama and the first of the 8 limbs of yoga can help us explore how it might show up in small, meaningful ways in our own daily lives.

And, you’ll probably realise that you’ve been practicing some or all of the first limb of yoga your whole life, without even knowing 💫

Next time, we’ll explore the 3rd Limb - Niyama, which helps guide our relationship with ourselves