The Yamas

There are 8 limbs or branches of yoga. The first branch of yoga is called Yama. The Yamas are rules of social behavior. The purpose is to set guidelines for facilitating a peaceful and ethical society. The Yamas include the following principles:

1. Ahimsa or nonviolence
2. Satya or truthfulness
3. Brachmacharya or appropriate use of one's energies including sexual abstinence or commitment
4. Asteya or honesty
5. Aparigraha or generosity

When the Yamas are practiced, they morally purify the Yogi to enhance Yoga.