niyama

Yoga

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July 1, 2026

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In Yoga philosophy, niyama is the second of the eight stages (ashtanga-yoga) leading to samadhi, or a state of perfect concentration. It is a set of five observances that serve as an ethical and spiritual discipline. These include cleanliness, contentment, asceticism (tapas), self-study, and devotion to God.123

Niyama, along with the first stage, yama (restraint), are considered preliminary ethical preparations for the more advanced stages of Yoga. They are not exclusive to Yoga but are foundational practices for any aspirant seeking spiritual development.12

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yama
The second stage, niyama (Sanskrit: “discipline”), in its ethical intent similar to yama, comprises five categories of observance: cleanliness, contentment with one’s material condition, asceticism, study of the metaphysics relating to salvation, and devotion to God.
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The second stage, niyama (Sanskrit: “discipline”), in its ethical intent similar to yama, comprises five categories of observance: cleanliness, contentment with one’s material condition, asceticism, study of the metaphysics relating to salvation, and devotion to God.
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Yoga
…stealing, lust, and avarice; and niyama (“discipline”), which denotes cleanliness of body, contentment, austerity, study, and devotion to God.
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…stealing, lust, and avarice; and niyama (“discipline”), which denotes cleanliness of body, contentment, austerity, study, and devotion to God.
Read More