How to Be a Yogi

When you think of the word ‘yoga,’ what’s the first thing that comes to mind? 

It may be stretching, difficult poses, or flowing sequences. Maybe it’s tight pants, mats, or busy studios. But what is Yoga really about? This age-old practice that’s been around for thousands of years didn’t start with Lululemon, Instagram, or heated studios (believe it or not). The ancient Yogis weren’t balancing on one hand or putting their legs behind their heads. They didn’t wear expensive clothing or make funky playlists. So, what is Yoga, where did it come from, and how can we learn to live the yogic life in the 21st century? 

First, let’s take a brief look at the history of yoga. 

Written over 2,000 years ago in India by the sage Patanjali, the Yoga Sutras or “threads,” outline the path of yoga over a series of four books and 196 aphorisms.  In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, we learn that the actual meaning of Yoga is the science of the mind. Therefore, the practice of Yoga is the understanding and complete mastery over the mind. This is no simple the task for the average human, so Patanjali has laid out the path for us in 8 limbs, which make up the practice of Ashtanga Yoga. The 8 limbs are: 

1. Moral and ethical guidelines that define the yogi’s relationship with society (Yamas) 

2. Moral and ethical guidelines that define the yogi’s personal observances (Niyamas) 

3. Physical poses (Asana) 

4. Breathing (Pranayama) 

5. Sense Withdrawal (Pratyahara) 

6. Concentration (Dharana) 

7. Meditation (Dhyana) 

8. Ultimate Peace (Samadhi) 

My teacher, Shri R. Sharath Jois explains that only first three limbs (Yamas, Niyamas, and Asana) can physically be practiced. The other limbs will come naturally over time by practicing these first three stages of the path. So, let’s dive a little deeper into their meaning. 

Asana, the third limb, means the physical poses of yoga. This is what comes to mind for most people when they hear the word “yoga.” We see now that it is just one part of the yogic path. By simply practicing Asana, it does not mean we are a great yogi, if we are not actively practicing the first two limbs, the Yamas and Niyamas. But I am not discrediting the importance of Asana practice. Besides having many great physical benefits, the practice of Asana is the doorway for most people into the spiritual practice of yoga. After practicing Asana for awhile, students begin to notice a clearer, calmer state of mind, and many return to the practice for more than purely physical reasons (even if at first this was their motivation). They may become interested in learning how to find everlasting peace and happiness, and how to truly live like a yogi. This is where the ethical and moral principles of the Yamas and Niyamas come in. 

The Yamas are defined as: 

1. Nonviolence (Ahimsa) 

2. Truthfulness (Satya) 

3. Non stealing (Asteya) 

4. Sexual Restraint/ Right Use of Energy (Brahmacharya) 

5. Nonpossessiveness (Aparigraha) 

The Niyamas are as follows: 

1. Purity (Saucha) 

2. Contentment (Santosha)

3. Discipline (Tapas) 

4. Study (Svadhyaya)

5. Surrender to a Higher Power (Isvara Pranidhana) 

To get you started on the Yogic path, I’ve developed a 10-day challenge with my friend Alexa Smith. From today, May 11th, through May 22nd, we will be hosting daily Instagram live classes at 12:30pm EST, focused around one of the Yamas or Niyamas. Each day of the challenge will also include an asana (pose), and a journaling prompt which aligns with the ethical/moral theme of the day. Our hope is that you will begin to integrate the deeper values of Yoga into your physical practice, and your every day life. So, follow us on Instagram @yogibarri and @lexmsmith, and let’s begin. Your journey to a happier, more peaceful life begins today!