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Asteya-Yama, Non-stealing by Sharath Jois

Here is Asteya one of the Yamas from the ashtanga yoga eight limbs. This is from Sharath's book Astanga yoga Anusthana .   I have heard him discuss some of the things mentioned here, including the stealing of poses. I think if we could all practice this to the best of our ability (both in and out of the yoga community), life would indeed be a better place. I think quite often non-stealing is associated with material theft. This item clearly defines a number of areas to be considered. " Asteya means non stealing property or wealth that belongs to others. This includes not stealing work, ideas or even attempting to perform Asana that are not taught to you. If you practice non-stealing, you will reap all the gems of life, which are not necessary monetary. Real gems are peace of mind, joy and ultimate happiness. According to the yogis, there is no gem like the peace of mind and ultimate joy that we can attain through spiritual practice, and non-attachment,  Indeed, non-atta

YAMA

Yama the first of the eight limbs described in the yoga text of Pattanjali This limb recommends five ethical practices or restraints Ahimsa: Applying non-violence/non harming to yourself and others. Satya: Truth -living according to your own truth. Asteya: Non stealing. Brahmachharya : Abstinence ; containing sexual energy. Aparigraha ; Non coveting ; letting go of desires. My take on these, is to practice to the best of my ability in the same way as I practice Asana ( Yoga poses).

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga is a flowing dynamic form of yoga, where each pose is linked and synchronised using a breathing system called ujjayi pranayama . Ashtanga yoga practises postures (asana), breath (ujjayi pranayama), focal/gazing point (driste). The discipline of this system allows us to develop a deeper understanding and awareness of ourselves. It is both empowering, and liberating and allows us to move through life with a calmness and steadiness of mind and body. The linking of breathing and movement creates an internal, purifying heat which detoxifies and purifies the muscles and internal organs. Internal locks (bandhas) are used throughout the yoga practice. The breath is the heart of Ashtanga yoga. Eight Limbs Ashtanga translates as “eight limbs”. Below are the eight limbs as described by the sage Patanjali: Yama (abstinences) Niyama(observances) Asana (postures) Pranayama (breath control) Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) Dharana (concentration) Dhyana (meditat

Ashtanga: The Eight Limbs of Yoga

Asha = Eight, Anga = Limb, Yoga = Union The Eight Limbs of yoga are: Yama - Ethical disciplines, morals Niyama – Self observation, purification. Asana - Poses, postures Pranayama - breath control, rythmic. Pratayahara - sense withdrawel Dharana - Concentration. Dhyana - meditation Samadhi - A state of joy and peace