My friend and fellow yoga teacher, Rob Owens, published a book last year inspired by (and about) the Yoga Sutras. How exciting to finally have my own copy! I read it in two-days, as my passion for yoga philosophy is strong, and it is rare to find easily-digested spiritual texts. If you are a beginner on the journey of spirituality, this book is an amazing first step for self-reflection. Even if you are not a beginner, it is a lovely way to reconnect with your spiritual-Self (yes, with a capitol-S).
What are the Yamas and Niyamas?
There is a “full-spectrum” of yoga, some of you may have heard of it, referred to as the “8-limbs of yoga.” It was recorded by Patanjali in his spiritual text called “The Yoga Sutras.” My favourite translation of the sutras is by Alistair Shearer, but there are many versions of this book. The 8-limbs are:
- The Yamas (5 restraints)
- The Niyamas (5 observances)
- Asana (postures)
- Pranayama (breath control)
- Pratyahara (sense withdrawal)
- Dharana (concentration)
- Dhyana (meditation)
- Samadhi (enlightenment)
Rob’s book focuses on the first two of the eight “limbs” totaling ten guidances through:
YAMAS
- Non-violence
- Honesty
- Non-stealing
- Moderation (historically this was chastity)
- Non-attachment
NIYAMAS
- Purity
- Contentment
- Discipline
- Self-Study
- Surrender
This book not only goes through the Yamas and Niyamas in a simple way, it also shares personal stories and offers “experiments” at the end of each chapter to give you an opportunity to reflect on your own experience of them. I highly recommend this book, and keep a journal nearby for your personal reflections at the end of each chapter.
If you are interested in purchasing your own copy, it is available on amazon: Yamas and Niyamas of Higher Consciousness.
If you are interested in learning more about yoga philosophy or classes, you can email Rob directly at rowens@cogeco.ca or through his contact page: Spirit Keep.
The Gentle Way of Hatha 