Motivation

Yama and Niyama are two fundamental principles in Raja Yoga that provide ethical and moral guidelines for a harmonious life. The integration of meditation into these principles can support a deep spiritual practice and promote personal growth.

Background

Yama refers to behavioral rules in dealing with others, such as non-violence, truthfulness, and abstinence. Niyama refers to personal behavioral rules such as purity, contentment, and self-discipline.

Step-by-step guide

1. Find a quiet and undisturbed place where you can meditate.
2. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take deep breaths to center yourself.
3. Consider each of the Yamas (Non-violence, Truthfulness, Non-stealing, Abstinence, Non-possessiveness) and reflect on how you implement them in your life.
4. Take time to reflect on each Niyama (Purity, Contentment, Self-discipline, Self-study, Devotion) and feel how they influence your actions.
5. Begin with a breath meditation, focusing on your breath and allowing thoughts to pass without holding onto them.
6. Next, focus your attention on one of the Yamas, such as Ahimsa (Non-violence). Sense how you can practice this quality in your daily life.
7. Continue by focusing on a Niyama, such as Saucha (Purity). Visualize cultivating more purity in your thoughts and actions.
8. Repeat this process for each of the Yamas and Niyamas, consciously immersing yourself in meditation and delving deeper into your inner self.
9. End the meditation by feeling grateful for the insights gained during the practice and committing to anchor the principles of Yama and Niyama in your daily life.
10. Slowly open your eyes, stretch your body, and return to everyday life with a calm and grounded attitude.
11. Spend some time reflecting on your experiences and perhaps keeping a journal to track your progress on your spiritual journey.

Final reflection

The Yama and Niyama meditation provides a valuable opportunity to connect ethical principles and spiritual practice. By regularly meditating on these principles, we can expand our consciousness, deepen our relationships, and lead a life in harmony with ourselves and our environment.