Yoga Stories Episode 9: the Niyamas - part 2

This week we continue our discussion of the Niyamas, the things yogis should be doing to bring their practice into every aspect of life. Tapas, a kind of self-discipline that helps build the fire inside that burns away impurities, is a concept familiar to many people of faith. 

Svadhyaya is the study of the self - reflection on your actions, characteristics, the direction you are taking and the environment in which you are living. But of course it must be done without too heavy of a critique: Svadhyaya is to help lift you up, not bring you down with further self-doubt. It is a great way to get to know your God - whomever or whatever that may be.

Finally, Ishvarapranidhana is "surrender to the Lord". Like a number of concepts in yoga, it's another aspect of letting go.