Philosophy
Niyama
Niyamaनियम· nee-YAH-mahobservance
Niyama is the second limb of yoga: five personal observances that cultivate inner discipline and self-care.
The five niyamas are saucha (cleanliness), santosha (contentment), tapas (discipline), svadhyaya (self-study) and ishvara pranidhana (surrender to the divine).
Frequently asked questions
- What are the five niyamas?
- Saucha (purity), santosha (contentment), tapas (disciplined effort), svadhyaya (self-study) and ishvara pranidhana (devotion or surrender).
References
- Patanjali, Yoga Sutras 2.32 · Classical text — Names the five niyamas.

