The beautiful thing about ethics in yogic philosophy is that they’re tools to give you contentment in life. They’re not additional obstacles we put in our own way; rather, they empower us to tune in to our true selves.
Yogic ethics are simple and easy to understand. Despite their ancient origins, they’re still very applicable to today’s world.
Non-Violence
Obviously, we must not be violent to others, but to what extent? Non-violence is not only physical but also emotional and mental. It’s about what we do, say, and think.
When we think “bad” thoughts about someone, we cause ourselves mental distress. When we do or say mean things, we hurt others and also cause ourselves mental anguish. It’s a no-win situation.
Begin with curbing your behaviours, then your written words and speech. Once you’ve mastered that, work on your thoughts.
At the core, being non-violent protects others, and it protects us from ourselves. This principle applies to people, animals and mother nature. By practising non-violence, we become good to ourselves.
Truthfulness
Big lies, little lies, white lies – there’s so many different kinds of lies. Be true to others and yourself.
There can be a bit of an art to being truthful, because non-violence must also be heeded. Be good in our intentions, sensitive with our words, and careful with our tone so that we can be honest and loving with others.
Being honest with ourselves is the most difficult truth. Ultimately, being honest with ourselves will allow us to connect deeper with our true self.
Not stealing
Didn’t steal anything lately? Check. Didn’t take advantage of anyone? Check. Got rid of my greediness? Not completely.
The principle of not stealing relates to greed. When we overcome greed, we become generous in nature. We become happy to give to others because we receive more than what we gave.
Greed can manifest in an unlimited number of ways. It includes big things like stealing and extends even to smaller things like continually asking favours from someone who you know has trouble saying no.
How can we reduce our greediness? Don’t compare what you may give away against what we think we may get back. See people as more than what we can get from them.
Remember the last time you gave a present, you felt joy. Your happiness is immeasurable and worth more than any mere object. The universe is capable of giving to us in more ways than we can imagine.
Self Restraint
Our bodies are a big driver in the things we do everyday, from eating, sleeping, and satisfying sexual urges. When emotions are not controlled, such as when we’re angry or depressed, we do things we would not normally do. You’ll have more control over other parts of your life if you first master your senses.
Non-coveting
The last ethical principle is to not covet, which really means to strive to be content with what we have. This doesn’t mean that we don’t try to improve and change our situations. It means appreciating all the goodness in our lives.
It will help us get out of the mental rat race, the keeping up with the Joneses, the unending search for happiness. By being content with what we have, we find mental peace and the ability to enjoy the moment we’re in.
Do not look at the ethics as a set of rules that box you in and prevent you from doing what you want to do. View it as a set of tools to help you be content and peaceful in your life. The ethics don’t tie you up, they set you free. These are the Yamas.