The yamas and niyamas are the first two limbs (skills) of Patanjali's eight. See overview below and read the relevant sutras. In every person, an infinite wellspring of potential resides. Our true Self isn't confined by circumstances; it's rooted in boundless, creative consciousness. Upon realising our true Self and understanding spiritual laws like karma—where similar energies attract one another—the practice of the yamas and niyamas below becomes effortless. Conversely, before realising our true Self, the yamas and niyamas guide us to align with it. When we deviate from alignment and act contrary to truth (out of ignorance), we inevitably cause ourselves pain. These sutras indicate that we can sense misalignment through discord, and we have the ability to realign and restore unity. One valuable tip from Patanjali here, is to counter negative thoughts by thinking their opposites.

The first limb of the eightfold path is Yama, which translates to restraint, discipline, or control. Yamas are practical principles designed to guide human actions within the context of the world's cause-and-effect dynamics. The 5 yamas are : 1 AHIMSA: Non-violence 2 SATYA: Truthfulness 3 ASTEYA: Non-stealing 4 BRAHMACHARYA: Non-excess 5 APARIGRAHA: Non-greed. Embracing these Yamas, regardless of your circumstances, leads to reduced resistance and smoother life flow. Explore each yama further by double clicking each image below.

Niyama, the second limb, translates to positive duties or observances. The 5 niyamas are: 1 SAUCHA: Cleanliness. 2 SANTOSHA: Contentment. 3 TAPAS: Self-discipline. 4 SVADHYAYA: Self-study. 5 ISHVARA PRANIDHANA: Surrender to a Higher Power. Explore each niyama further by double clicking each image below.

Genuine understanding arises from firsthand experience. Observe the interconnected nature of our world – how actions lead to outcomes. Initiate a practice of journaling; recognise that what might seem like mere coincidences stem from the materialisation of our thoughts. Start paying more attention to your thoughts. Are they helpful or do they hinder? How they feel gives an accurate indicator to whether they are in alignment or not to what your higher Self knows is true. Practice shifting perspectives if needs be, climbing the emotional scale back up to higher states.

Once you've completed the above, test your comprehension of the theoretical concepts below. This testing phase will help solidify your understanding and application of the knowledge you've acquired.