What Are the Yamas in Yoga? An Introduction to the Five Ethical Principles

The yamas are the first of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, as outlined in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, representing five ethical principles that guide yogic living. And while yoga is often thought of as a group practice that includes stretching, strengthening and conditioning, being a sincere student of yoga also means making choices about living, attuning to one’s inherent wisdom and asking ourselves the question, what does it really mean to live a good life?

We live in a world of conflicting messages – how much do we engage or isolate, work or rest, practice compassion or maintain boundaries? Thoughtful living requires careful management of emotions, relations and internal energy. Many of us come to yoga seeking access to the deeper parts of ourselves that offer mental clarity, inner strength or even intuitive wisdom. Full engagement with yoga takes us beyond the physical postures, offering a practical framework for mindful living starting with a set of ethical principles termed yamas. The yamas constitute the first of eight limbs of yoga as defined by Sri Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. 

Understanding the Five Yamas in Yoga Philosophy

So, what are the yamas in yoga? The term yama comes from the root |yam| meaning to curb, restrain, or hold in check. Observing these five principles, therefore, is intended to help us curb some of the natural human tendencies which may distract us from a spiritual path. As such, we are encouraged to iron out these base tendencies first, before moving on to other aspects of practice. The yamas are presented as ethical principles to consider as we interact with others and move through the world, creating as little wake as possible. 

The Five Yamas include:

• ahimsa – non-violence/non-harming
• satya – truthfulness
• asteya – non-stealing
• brahmacharya – conserving creative energy
• aparigraha – non-possessiveness

These principles, which form the foundation of Raja Yoga (the royal path of yoga), are guidelines to consider as we make decisions and formulate our own values in the world. The yamas are not rigid rules to follow, but a set of tools to help us grapple with the challenges of life . . . to approach ourselves and others with greater awareness and compassion.

Why the Yamas of Yoga Still Matter

Though these teachings come from ancient texts (Patanjali is believed to have lived between 200 B.C.E. and 200 C.E), the yamas pertain to modern life with surprising relevance. Here are a few examples of how they might show up today:

• ahimsa (non-violence): we investigate negative self-talk, tendencies toward comparison, or criticism toward our bodies
• satya (honesty): we choose to be honest with someone – even if we know the truth will be painful – because it will be best in the long run
• aparigraha (not hankering for what others have): may apply when we feel lonely, inadequate or seek relief in retail therapy 

At their core, the yamas are tools for self-reflection and honesty, designed to help us ask better questions like, “What impact will my actions have in this situation?” or “Is this decision aligned with my deeper values?”

Yamas and Niyamas: The Foundations of Yogic Living

The yamas are thought of as internal actions, or principles that we apply in our relationships with others. They are often paired with the second limb of Patanjali’s yoga, the niyamas, which relate to personal conduct and internal self-discipline. Just as the yamas invite us to reflect upon our behavior in the outside world, the niyamas address the internal environment of the mind. These ethical principles invite us to reflect upon – with honesty and vigor – established patterns of thinking and behavior. Together, the yamas and niyamas offer a roadmap of uplifting spiritual principles, empowering us to live a life of purpose and meaning. 

What’s Coming Next

Over the next five weeks, we’ll explore each of the five yamas in greater depth, beginning with ahimsa, the practice of non-violence. We’ll discover why it was given as the fundamental principle behind all others, and how it shows up in everyday choices—not just what we do, but what we think, say and tolerate.

This six-part series isn’t about adding more to your to-do list. It’s an invitation to slow down and reflect upon principles which have stood the test of time . . . to live a reflective and intentional life, and to ask, “what would it look like to meet life with more presence and less pressure?”

Reflection Prompt

As we begin our exploration of the yamas of yoga, consider:

• Which of these five principles feels most relevant to your life right now?
• Where could more clarity, honesty, or compassion shift your experience?

Let’s begin there.

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