EVERYTHING YOU NEDD TO KNOW ABOUT NIYAMA – POSITIVE DUTIES OR OBSERVANCES
Niyama is a Sanskrit term used in yoga philosophy that refers to a set of personal ethical observances or rules for living. It is the second limb of the eight limbs of yoga. It usually refers to duties directed towards ourselves, but can also be considered with our actions towards the outside world. The prefix ‘ni’ is a Sanskrit verb that means ‘inward’ or ‘within’. The five niyamas are constructive tools for cultivating happiness and self-confidence; the opportunities to practice them arise every day.
The practice of Niyama is considered to be an important step in the path of spiritual growth and self-realization in yoga philosophy. By cultivating these personal observances, one can achieve a greater sense of inner peace, discipline, and connection to the divine.
THE FIVES NIYAMAS
- Saucha
Purity or cleanliness. You can interpret this Niyama literally by practicing personal hygiene and cleaning your yoga mat, or you can cleanse yourself of thoughts and habits that no longer serve you. You can use sage to cleanse a space of negative energy or wash your stones with salt water to cleanse them as well. Getting rid of the negative energies of others will help you keep content - Santosha
Contentment. Find contentment in your life as it is. Meditation, practicing non-judgment, spending time in nature, or writing in a gratitude journal are ways to practice Santosha. - Tapas
Self-discipline or “burning enthusiasm.” Think of self-discipline as keeping agreements that you have made with yourself. During a yoga class or meditation session, set an intention as a way to practice self-discipline. Cultivate tapas’ “burning enthusiasm” by making time for your passions. - Svadhyaya
Self-study and self-reflection. There are many ways to experience self-reflection. On the yoga mat, pay close attention to how your body feels at the beginning of practice versus the end. Notice if a pose feels different on your left and right side. Outside of yoga, journaling can be a great way to engage in the study of the self. - Ishvara pranidhana
Contemplation of or surrender to a higher power. If you have a spiritual practice, engage with Ishvara Pranidhana by taking time to connect with your beliefs. If you don’t have a spiritual practice, connect with power beyond yourself by spending time in nature.
HOMEMADE DETOX LEMONADE CLEANSE RECIPE
This warm lemon detox recipe tastes great, is super simple, and will get you ready for Summer any time of year!
- Preparation time:10 mins Cooking time: 1- mins
- Easy
- Servings : 4
INGREDIENTS :
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 cups hot water
***TO MAKE JUST ONE MUG you can do 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/2 tablespoon honey, pinch cayenne and ground ginger, and 1 cup hot water***
DIRECTIONS :
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 4 cups hot water
MORE POSES THAT BUILD TAPAS
- Boat Pose
- Warrior One Pose
- Crescent Lunge Pose
- Bridge Pose
- Camel Pose
POSE OF THE MONTH :
WHEEL POSE
Wheel pose, also known as Urdhva Dhanurasana in yoga, is a challenging backbend that offers numerous benefits for the body and mind.
BENEFITS:
Improved spinal flexibility, strengthens the arms, shoulders, and legs, increases energy and reduces fatigue, promotes heart health, and relieves stress and anxiety.
BODY QUES:
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet on the ground, hip-width apart. Place your hands on the ground beside your head with your fingers pointing towards your shoulders. Press into your hands and feet to lift your hips off the ground. Straighten your arms and lift your chest towards the ceiling, coming into a backbend. Hold the pose for a few breaths, then release by tucking your chin and slowly lowering your body back down to the ground.
POSSIBLE VARIATION :
There are several variations of the wheel pose that you can try to deepen your practice and challenge yourself. Here are a few examples:
- One-legged wheel pose
- Forearm wheel pose
- Wheel pose with a block
- Drop-back wheel pose