Among the very most important texts in Yoga is the Yoga Sutras, written by the sage Patanjali in the 2nd Century, BC. In it he articulates eight limbs which comprise the “Royal Path” of Yoga.

In past posts on this blog, I’ve  focused on the first limb, called the Yamas, which are the moral precepts of Yoga. In the next five posts I’ll explore the second limb with you, called the Niyamas, which articulate the relationship you should cultivate with yourself.

The first Niyama is called Saucha, which means purity.

The more we seek to purify body and mind, the more we are prepared for the spiritual practices of Yoga. Self-purification brings us into greater harmony with nature while enabling us to sit comfortably in contemplation with a calmer mind.  It removes both physical and mental toxins while enhancing our inner power. It builds the self-discipline required to sustain our yogic practices and continue our journey towards self-awareness.

I invite you to practice the Yoga of Saucha in these ways:

• Eat only the purest of foods, as organic and vegetarian as possible.
• Cultivate positive thoughts and reduce exposure to the mental toxins of mass media.
• Fast one day this week, skipping just one dinner and the following breakfast.
• Practice deep breathing throughout each day.