Swadhyaya, being the second yogic practice of the Niyamas, means commitment to knowing the truth. If we study the teachings of wise beings (through reading yogic texts) and also study ourselves (through meditation and reflection), we can reach a greater understanding of what it means to be human. This is also called, in yogic terms, the science of liberation. Once we understand the truth of our existence, we can transcend so much unhappiness to live in joyful acceptance.