What are the five yamas?

Ahimsa (non-harming), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (moderation/right use of energy) and aparigraha (non-possessiveness).

Philosophy

Yama

Yamaयम· YAH-mahrestraint

Yama is the first limb of yoga: five ethical restraints guiding how we treat others and the world.

ShareWhatsApp Facebook

The five yamas are ahimsa (non-harming), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (right use of energy) and aparigraha (non-grasping).

Frequently asked questions

What are the five yamas?: Ahimsa (non-harming), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (moderation/right use of energy) and aparigraha (non-possessiveness).

References

Patanjali, Yoga Sutras 2.30 · Classical text — Names the five yamas.

Related terms

Niyama
Ahimsa
Ashtanga