The author clearly explaines Yama and Niyama, the traditionally-accepted cardinal principles of morality, in a modern way, and at the same time places those principles on a clear scientific basis. The reader will learn that ancient teachings of self-control and selfless conduct stem in fact from the deepest understandings of human psychology, and are keys to the release of the highest human potentials.

This book begins by explaining the concept of ethics in the context of yoga practice and spiritual meditation, and then goes on the explain in detail all of the ten points of Yama-Niyama. Each point is clarified with examples from psychology and philosophy, both Eastern and Western, in their historical and also modern context. In addition the author provides myriad insights into the fundamentals of yoga itself, the structure of the mind, the cakra system as an emotional map of the body, and the purpose of meditation. The basic premise of the book is that Yama-Niyama are designed to create the balanced mental state necessary for the expansion of mind that is yoga: they help to produce an integrated personality and the subtle perception and empathy necessary to facilitate the fullest possible expression of human capacity both individually and collectively. Presented to be of interest not only to yoga students, teachers and spiritual seekers, but also as a study of the concept of ethics itself within a wider context, the author has made an invaluable contribution to the understanding of Yama-Niyama and the inner motivation of their design. This special edition includes the extra text 'A Guide to Human Conduct' by Shrii Shrii Anandamurti.

[in English] Manusmriti - A concise guide

Biography of Ānandamurti, 1923-1990, founder of Ananda Marga (Organization).

"Finally, a truly accessible, comprehensive guide on how to apply yoga's yamas and niyamas to everyday life. Both for the yogi and non-yogi alike, this beautiful manual has powerful teachings about relating to self and others. I can't wait to share it with my yoga students and yoga teacher trainees." ~Stacey Vespaziani, E-RYT and owner of South Hills Power Yoga and Bloomfield Yoga The Yamas and Niyamas are yoga's essential, ethical principles originally mentioned in the Yoga Sutras, the first written explanation of yoga compiled by Patanjali over 2,000 years ago. In the West, yoga is mostly known as a form of exercise, though the Sutras say yoga is an eight-part system working in unison to control the mind. These "limbs" as they are called in the Sutras include the Yamas and Niyamas, breathwork, yoga postures, and various stages of meditation. The Yamas (how to treat others) and the Niyamas (how to care for yourself) include values such as peace, truth, gratitude, and contentment. When practiced, they make life more manageable and meaningful. Although similar to other moral or religious codes, the Yamas and Niyamas are more freeing than restrictive and a thought process over a hard set of rules. They are basically 10 ways to be a better person. YOGA'S YAMAS AND NIYAMAS is a practical, relatable yoga philosophy text. Informational and instructional, this book is for anyone curious about yoga philosophy, self-improvement, or is seeking more out of life. It is also of value to yoga instructors who want to incorporate yoga philosophy into their teaching or yoga teacher trainees who are deepening their understanding of the first two limbs of yoga. In this book is a chapter for each Yama and Niyama explaining what it is as well as a physical yoga practice, consideration, mantra, journal prompt, and a personal account of how the author used the principle in her own life. This book can be applied as a textbook, resource, or workbook to live life with peace, purpose, awareness, and accountability. This book comes with online yoga videos to physically practice the principles: courtneyseiberling.com/yoga

This book begins by explaining the concept of ethics in the context of yoga practice and spiritual meditation, and then goes on the explain in detail all of the ten points of Yama-Niyama. Each point is clarified with examples from psychology and philosophy, both Eastern and Western, in their historical and also modern context. In addition the author provides myriad insights into the fundamentals of yoga itself, the structure of the mind, the cakra system as an emotional map of the body, and the purpose of meditation. The basic premise of the book is that Yama-Niyama are designed to create the balanced mental state necessary for the expansion of mind that is yoga: they help to produce an integrated personality and the subtle perception and empathy necessary to facilitate the fullest possible expression of human capacity both individually and collectively. Presented to be of interest not only to yoga students, teachers and spiritual seekers, but also as a study of the concept of ethics itself within a wider context, the author has made an invaluable contribution to the understanding of Yama-Niyama and the inner motivation of their design.