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Self-restraint

Classification > Self-restraint

First limb: Self-restraint (Yama)

Principles of right relationship to the world and universal ethics. Non-violence, non-harming, awareness and gentleness in action, truthfulness, non-stealing.

Non-violence (Ahimsa)

Non-aggression, non-violence; constructive thought and speech. Conflict and violence comes out of fear, anger, ignorance, restlessness, and selfishness. Ahimsa is practiced through compassion, love, understanding, patience, self-love, and worthiness.

Truth (Satya)

Be true to oneself. Acceptance rather than judgement of ones thoughts. Practicing honesty towards oneself provide the foundation for an honest communication with others. Practice of constructive feedback and actions, forgiveness, non-judgemental attitude and letting go of ones role playing (pretending to be someone rather than being yourself). giving constructive feedback and forgiveness.

Non-stealing (Asteya)

Non-stealing; generosity; cultivate sense of completeness, self-sufficiency; letting go of cravings.

Continence (Brahmacharya)

Moderation; build up and preserve a high level of vital energy; channeling emotions, stepping out of the overindulgence of mind (thoughts, intellect). Practising moderation on all levels; sex, food, activity, rest and all aspects of daily life.

Non-covetousness (Aparigraha)

Learning the art of non-attachment to material things and the outer world at large. Non-possessiveness; non-greediness; satisfying the needs rather than wants; practice of non-attachment to material things, possessions, relationships and habits.