The Yoga Code - With Jackie Dumaine
What is The Yoga Code™? An incredible and thorough description is below.
Yoga is so much more than looking good in a pair of black stretchy pants!
The 10 Sacred Principles of The Yoga Code™ are based on the ancient wisdom found in The Yoga Sutras an ancient yogic text written approximately 2000 years ago by the Indian sage Patanjali. They have absolutely nothing to do with the physical postures.
REPEAT: They have absolutely nothing to do with the physical postures.
In our body-obsessed Western world, we seem to simply focus on the postures, neglecting the true transformative powers of the yoga tradition. The 10 Sacred Principles are known as The Yamas & Niyamas in yoga philosophy and serve as the absolute foundation for the practice of living a yogic lifestyle.
Pantajali believed that before you even step foot on a yoga mat, these principles should by studied, practiced and applied into your daily life. Each principle is not independent of one another but rather weave together to form a beautiful tapestry.
“Even as education in the primary school level is important, since it paves the way for one’s further mental build, the Yamas and Niyamas are the rock-bottom of Yoga.
The tonic of Yamas & Niyamas will provide the power and courage needed to face all obstacles. The Yama-Niyama process constitutes the instructions in yoga psychology, which should give us sufficient warning on the path and make us vigilant pilgrims on the spiritual journey. ~ Sri Swami Krishnananda. What are the 10 Sacred Principles? Here is a brief overview for you in both traditional Sanskrit language and translated into the Western meaning.
1. Ahimsa
Kindness and Compassion
Non-Harming towards all living things. In thoughts, in actions, in words. This must first begin with ourselves in the form of self-love. Practice loving kindess towards yourself first and the energy of those around you becomes more gentle and kind.
2. Satya
Truthfulness
Living in integrity. Speaking your truth and living an authentic life without trying to be something or someone that isn't in alignment with your values. Not lying to yourself or others. Acknowledging that truth is not rigid, it flows and changes just as you do.
3. Asteya
Non-Stealing
Taking only what is yours. In a world addicted to consuming, we often take more than what we require which takes away from others who lack basic needs. It also can lead to a negative effect on our environment. Not stealing opportunities from yourself or others by not living up to your full potential.
4. Brahmacharya
Non-Excess or Moderation
Embracing life’s pleasures without reckless abandon. Seeing the Divine in everything. It allows you to indulge in the pleasures of life but having the awareness to know when you've had "enough". By seeing the Divine in everything we can appreciate what we have and will experience unlimited abundance.
5. Aparigraha
Non-attachment, Non-Greed
Letting go of the need to control thoughts, people, situations and outcomes. When you let go of things/people/circumstances that hold you down, you create space for lightness and unlimited opportunity. In this non-attachment, you are also asked to not define yourself by your possessions. If you attach your identity to your "stuff" who will you be if your "stuff" goes away?
6. Saucha
Purity and Simplicity
In all things: Body, Mind, Spirit & Surroundings. Simplify the way you nourish your body, the way you consume information, the roles and responsibilities you take on, the way you live your life. Declutter your home and create a sacred space. Become friends with silence and stillness to purify the mind and spirit.
7. Santosha
Contentment
Find true joy and happiness with where you are regardless of the external circumstance or challenge. Become fully accountable (and thus empowered) for where you are in your life. Practice gratitude for what you have and embrace each moment exactly the way it is. Stop wishing things were different than what they are.
8. Tapas
Burning Commitment, Self-Discipline
The determination to go on when faced with obstacles and challenges and welcoming the struggles that lead to growth and expansion. Understand that the mind likes to give up before our spirit does. Follow through with responsibilities and keep the commitments and agreements you've made to yourself and to others.
9. Svadhyaya
Self-Study
Observe your actions, your ego and continuously seek out opportunities to learn about your Self. Live in a state of awareness to notice and question all of your decisions and behaviours (both positive and negative). Read spiritual texts to continuously learn and grow while you develop the skill of self-inquiry and self-reflection.
10. Ishvara Pranidhana
Surrender
Acknowledge that there is a Divine force at work and have faith that it will lead you on the right path. Learn to live in the “Flow” of life rather than fight against the current. Surrender isn't about giving up or quitting, it's about the powerful freedom that comes with knowing we are all part of a bigger plan.
To learn more about The Yoga Code™ you can visit Jackie's page here