All things Yoga with Vicky

Ishvarapranidhana, or surrender, is about letting go of control and trusting in a higher power—or simply the flow of life. In this episode, we explore how releasing attachment to outcomes, practicing faith, and staying open to the unknown can bring a sense of peace and freedom. Ishvarapranidhana teaches us to let go and let life unfold. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

Hello, we’re at the final Niyama—Ishvarapranidhana. This one’s all about surrendering to something bigger than yourself, whether that’s the universe, a god, or just the flow of life. Let’s dive in

Ishvarapranidhana can feel abstract, but at its core, it’s about trust. It’s knowing that while we can control some things, there’s so much that’s out of our hands—and that’s okay.

In traditional yoga, this surrender is about devotion to the divine. But even if you’re not spiritual, Ishvarapranidhana can be about letting go of the need to control everything.

Have you ever had a plan fall apart, only to realize later that things worked out even better? That’s the magic of surrender. It doesn’t mean giving up; it means doing your best and then trusting the process.

In today’s fast-paced world, surrender might look like practicing mindfulness or even just breathing deeply when things feel overwhelming. For me, it’s a reminder to step back and let life unfold.

Another way to practice Ishvarapranidhana? Gratitude. When we focus on what’s good, we stop fighting against what is. Surrender becomes easier when we realize there’s so much to be thankful for.

How can you practice surrender this week? Maybe it’s letting go of a grudge or trusting that things will work out. Whatever it is, I hope it brings you peace. Thanks for joining me on this journey through the Yamas and Niyamas. See you soon for more yoga wisdom

Svadhyaya, or self-study, encourages us to turn inward and explore who we are. This episode looks at how journaling, meditation, and studying wisdom texts can help us deepen our understanding of ourselves and our purpose. Svadhyaya reminds us that self-awareness is the key to personal and spiritual growth. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today’s Niyama is Svadhyaya, or self-study. This one’s all about getting curious about yourself—your habits, your thoughts, and even the deeper, spiritual you.

Traditionally, Svadhyaya involves studying sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita or the Yoga Sutras. But in modern life, it’s also about turning inward and learning from your experiences.

Think about it—how often do we go through life on autopilot? Svadhyaya asks us to pause and reflect. Why did I react that way? What’s driving my choices?

For me, journaling is a big part of Svadhyaya. It’s like having a conversation with yourself—getting all your thoughts out and then seeing what they reveal. Meditation is another great tool for self-study. When you sit quietly, you can observe your mind without judgment.

And here’s a fun idea—self-study doesn’t have to be all serious. What about trying something new, like a hobby or class, to learn more about yourself? You might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.

On a deeper level, Svadhyaya reminds us that we’re more than our thoughts or bodies. It’s about connecting with your true essence, your inner light.

So, how will you practice Svadhyaya this week? Maybe it’s journaling, meditating, or just reflecting on your day. Whatever it is, I hope it brings you closer to yourself. Next time, we’re wrapping up the Niyamas with Ishvarapranidhana

Tapas, or discipline, is the fire that fuels transformation. In this episode, we discuss how embracing challenges, staying consistent with your goals, and cultivating resilience can lead to growth and self-discovery. Tapas is about showing up, even when it’s hard, and building the inner strength to move closer to your highest potential. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

It’s Vicky, and today on All Things Yoga, we’re diving into Tapas. This Niyama is all about discipline, but before you groan, stick with me—Tapas isn’t just about working harder. It’s about working smarter and with intention

Tapas translates to ‘heat’ or ‘burning enthusiasm,’ and traditionally, it refers to the discipline needed to stay committed to your spiritual path. But let’s bring that into today’s world.

Tapas is about showing up for yourself consistently, even when it’s hard. Whether it’s rolling out your yoga mat on a day you’d rather sleep in, eating foods that nourish you, or staying focused on a long-term goal, Tapas is the fire that keeps you going.

But discipline doesn’t have to be harsh. In fact, Tapas is about balance—it’s the sweet spot between effort and ease.

Let’s talk about how this looks in modern life. Have you ever started a habit, like journaling or exercising, and then given up when it got tough? Tapas encourages us to push through that resistance—not out of guilt but because we know it’s good for us. You can't guilt yourself into change, but you can love yourself into change.

For me, practicing Tapas often means creating small, achievable goals. Like committing to ten minutes of yoga instead of an hour. Consistency beats intensity every time. Even 2 or 5 minutes of meditation is better than non at all.

Another way to think about Tapas is as self-respect. When we follow through on our commitments, we build trust in ourselves. That’s powerful.

Where can you bring more Tapas into your life? Maybe it’s sticking to a new habit or simply showing up with intention. Whatever it is, let that inner fire guide you. Next time, we’re talking about Svadhyaya

Santosha, or contentment, is the practice of finding peace and gratitude in the present moment. This episode delves into how we can let go of comparison, embrace imperfection, and recognize the abundance we already have. Santosha shows us that happiness isn’t in the next achievement but in appreciating what’s right here, right now. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

You’re listening to All Things Yoga with Vicky, and today’s Niyama is one of my favourites—Santosha, or contentment. Ah, doesn’t that sound nice?

But here’s the thing: contentment can feel tricky, especially in a world that constantly tells us we need more. More stuff, more success, more everything. So let’s unpack what Santosha really means and how we can embrace it.

Traditionally, Santosha is about finding peace and satisfaction with what you already have. It’s learning to appreciate the present moment instead of chasing after the next thing.

Sounds lovely, right? But let’s be real—it’s not always easy. How often do we say, ‘I’ll be happy when…’—when I get the promotion, lose the weight, or take that dream vacation? Santosha asks us to hit pause on that mindset and say, ‘What’s good about my life right now?’

In yoga, Santosha might mean being okay with where your body is today. Maybe you can’t nail that tricky pose yet, but you can still appreciate the strength and effort you’re bringing to your practice.

Off the mat, Santosha could look like practicing gratitude. Have you ever tried writing down three things you’re thankful for each day? It’s a simple way to shift your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.

And here’s a modern twist—what if Santosha also meant unplugging from social media? It’s so easy to compare ourselves to others and feel like we’re falling short. But when we step back, we can reconnect with what really makes us happy.

So, how can you invite Santosha into your life this week? Maybe it’s savouring your morning coffee or taking a moment to appreciate a loved one. Whatever it is, I hope it fills you with peace. See you next time for Tapas

Shaucha, or cleanliness, goes beyond physical hygiene to include clarity in our thoughts, emotions, and surroundings. In this episode, we explore how decluttering your home, eating clean foods, and releasing mental negativity can create a sense of inner and outer purity. Shaucha is all about making space for positivity and growth in your life. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today, we’re kicking off the Niyamas—those inner practices that help us live more harmonious lives. And the first one we’re exploring is Shaucha, or cleanliness.

Now, I know what you’re thinking—‘Vicky, are you telling me I need to clean my room?’ Well… maybe! But Shaucha goes so much deeper than that.

Let’s start with the traditional interpretation. Shaucha is about keeping the body, mind, and environment clean. Sure, this includes physical hygiene—taking a shower, washing your yoga mat—but it also means clearing out the clutter in our minds and surroundings.

Think about how good it feels to walk into a tidy space or how refreshed you feel after a hot shower. That’s Shaucha in action—it’s not about perfection but creating an environment that feels light and supportive.

But Shaucha isn’t just external. Mental cleanliness is just as important. Have you ever noticed how negative thoughts or worry can feel like mental clutter? Practicing Shaucha might mean setting boundaries with toxic people, limiting the news you consume, or simply making time for mindfulness practices.

And here’s another layer—what about the food we eat? Nourishing your body with clean, healthy food is another way to honour Shaucha. It’s not about being extreme but about tuning into what makes you feel good.

In modern life, Shaucha might also mean decluttering your digital life. When was the last time you cleaned out your inbox or unfollowed accounts that don’t inspire you? Clearing that space can create more room for what truly matters.

So, this week, think about where you can invite more Shaucha into your life. Maybe start with something small, like clearing your desk or journaling to clear your mind. I promise it makes a difference. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you next time to talk about Santosha

Aparigraha, or non-possessiveness, is the practice of releasing attachments—whether to material things, relationships, or limiting beliefs. This episode looks at how decluttering, embracing change, and cultivating gratitude can free us from unnecessary burdens. Aparigraha reminds us that when we let go, we make room for what truly matters. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

You’re listening to All Things Yoga with Vicky, and today we’re diving into the final Yama—Aparigraha, which means non-possessiveness or non-attachment. This one is such a game-changer, especially in our consumer-driven world. Let’s unpack what it means and how we can bring it into our lives

Traditionally, Aparigraha is about letting go of the need to cling—whether to material things, relationships, or even ideas. In yoga philosophy, the idea is that attachment leads to suffering because nothing in life is permanent.

Let’s start with material possessions. Have you ever held onto something you don’t really use, just because you might need it ‘someday’? Or maybe you’ve felt like you need the latest gadget or fashion trend to be happy? Aparigraha invites us to ask: Do I really need this? Will it truly bring me joy, or is it just adding clutter to my life?

One way to practice Aparigraha is by decluttering your space. For example, take a look at your wardrobe. Are there clothes you haven’t worn in years? Letting go of those items can feel freeing—not just physically but emotionally too.

But Aparigraha isn’t just about physical stuff. It’s also about emotional attachment. Have you ever clung to a relationship or situation that wasn’t serving you, just because it felt familiar or safe? Practicing Aparigraha might mean letting go of that attachment and trusting that something better will come along.

And then there are the mental attachments. Are there beliefs or ideas you’re holding onto that no longer serve you? For example, the belief that you have to be perfect, or that success looks a certain way. Aparigraha asks us to let go of those limiting thoughts and make space for growth.

In modern life, Aparigraha can even apply to time. Are you hoarding your time, afraid to share it with others, or overcommitting because you feel like you ‘should’? Learning to say no and prioritize what really matters is a form of non-possessiveness.

And here’s a fun twist—Aparigraha can help us enjoy life more. When we stop clinging, we’re free to experience the present moment without worrying about losing it. Think about eating a delicious meal. If you’re worried about the last bite before you’ve even started, you miss the joy of the moment! Aparigraha reminds us to savour what we have, knowing it’s enough.

For me, one of the most powerful ways to practice Aparigraha is through gratitude. When we focus on what we already have, the need to cling to more starts to fade. Whether it’s appreciating your morning coffee, a good book, or the people you love, gratitude shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance.

So, this week, try practicing Aparigraha. Maybe it’s decluttering your home, letting go of an old grudge, or just being mindful of your attachments. Whatever it looks like, I hope it brings you a sense of freedom. Thanks for joining me as we explored the Yamas, and I’ll see you next time as we dive into the Niyamas!

Brahmacharya, or moderation, is all about managing our energy wisely—physically, emotionally, and mentally. In this episode, we explore how setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and finding balance in consumption can lead to a more sustainable, fulfilling life. Moderation isn’t about restriction; it’s about joy in balance. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today, we’re exploring Brahmacharya, the fourth Yama. Brahmacharya is often translated as ‘moderation’ or sometimes as ‘celibacy,’ but don’t worry—we’re not going to be talking about joining a monastery! This Yama is about how we use our energy—physically, emotionally, and mentally—and finding balance in all areas of life.

Traditionally, Brahmacharya was about controlling desires, particularly in the context of spiritual growth. In ancient times, it was linked to celibacy, as yogis believed conserving that energy could be channeled into spiritual pursuits. But for most of us modern practitioners, Brahmacharya has evolved to mean something broader: moderation in how we use our energy.

Let’s start with the obvious—how do you spend your physical energy? Are you overworking yourself or burning out? Maybe you’re doing the opposite and not moving your body enough. Practicing Brahmacharya might mean finding a middle ground—exercising in a way that feels sustainable or setting boundaries with your work schedule to avoid exhaustion.

Now, let’s talk about mental energy. Have you ever felt drained just from overthinking? Maybe you’re replaying an argument in your head or worrying about things that haven’t even happened. Brahmacharya asks us to manage that mental energy. For me, meditation and deep breathing are tools I use to slow down and refocus my mind.

What about emotional energy? Are there people or situations in your life that feel like they’re taking more than they give? Sometimes practicing Brahmacharya means saying no to things that drain you so you can say yes to what truly nourishes you.

And of course, there’s moderation in consumption—whether it’s food, social media, or Netflix. We’ve all had those nights where we binge-watch a series and wake up feeling groggy. Brahmacharya reminds us to enjoy life’s pleasures in balance. For example, rather than eating an entire bag of chips, savoring a handful mindfully can feel just as satisfying without overindulgence.

Here’s a modern twist: Brahmacharya is also about being intentional. Are you scrolling on your phone for hours, or are you engaging with content that inspires you? Are you spending time with people who uplift you or just filling your schedule out of obligation?

And one more layer—Brahmacharya isn’t about deprivation. It’s not about saying no to everything fun; it’s about finding joy in balance. You might love a glass of wine or a dessert, and that’s okay! The practice is to enjoy those things mindfully and not let them control you.

So, how can you practice Brahmacharya this week? Maybe it’s setting a timer to limit social media, saying no to an invitation you don’t feel excited about, or finding balance in your physical activities. Whatever it looks like for you, I hope it brings you more energy and peace. Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you next time for Aparigraha

Asteya, or non-stealing, is about more than just physical theft—it’s about recognizing when we take time, energy, or even opportunities from others or ourselves. This episode dives into how we can practice gratitude, avoid comparison, and find satisfaction with what we already have. Asteya teaches us that true abundance comes from appreciating the present moment. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

Welcome back to All Things Yoga with Vicky. Today’s Yama is Asteya, which means non-stealing. Now, you might be thinking, ‘I’ve never stolen anything, so this one doesn’t apply to me.’ But Asteya is so much broader than just taking physical things—it’s about all the ways we ‘take’ without realizing it.

Traditionally, Asteya is about avoiding theft. But in a modern context, it’s about so much more. Let’s think about time. Have you ever been late to a meeting? Or scrolled on your phone during a conversation? That’s stealing someone’s time and attention.

Asteya also applies to energy. Are you taking too much from others without giving back? For example, venting about your problems but not being there for your friends when they need support.

And what about stealing from yourself? This can look like procrastinating or making choices that don’t serve your highest good. Maybe it’s staying up late scrolling on your phone and then feeling too tired to enjoy the next day.

In a consumer-driven world, Asteya can also be about rethinking our relationship with material things. Do we really need more stuff, or are we just filling a void? Decluttering and practicing gratitude for what you already have can be powerful ways to embrace Asteya.

For me, practicing Asteya is also about appreciating the little things. When we’re content with what we have, we stop feeling the need to take from others or the world. Gratitude is a big part of this practice.

So, this week, I invite you to reflect on Asteya. Notice where you might be taking more than you need—whether it’s time, energy, or even physical things—and see how you can shift towards giving instead. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next time for Brahmacharya

Satya, or truthfulness, isn’t just about honesty—it’s about aligning your words, thoughts, and actions with kindness and authenticity. In this episode, we discuss how Satya can help us embrace our true selves, question the little lies we tell, and live in a way that feels genuine. Truthfulness and compassion go hand in hand in creating deeper connections with ourselves and others. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk/

Transcript

Welcome back to All Things Yoga. It’s Vicky here, and today we’re diving into the second Yama—Satya, which means truthfulness. Now, truthfulness sounds pretty straightforward, right? But, as with everything in yoga, there’s a deeper layer to it.

The traditional meaning of Satya is being truthful in your words, actions, and thoughts. It’s about living in alignment with your highest self. But here’s the catch—truthfulness in yoga is always paired with kindness.

Think about this: Have you ever said something brutally honest but hurtful? That’s not Satya—it’s just being blunt. Satya asks us to be truthful in a way that also honors Ahimsa, or non-violence. Truth and kindness go hand in hand.

In our modern lives, Satya is about more than just not lying. It’s about authenticity. Are you being honest with yourself about what you want? Are you living in a way that feels true to who you are? For example, maybe you’re working in a job that doesn’t align with your values or staying in a situation that doesn’t feel right. Practicing Satya might mean having those tough conversations or making a change to align your outer life with your inner truth.

And let’s talk about white lies for a second—you know, the little things we say to avoid conflict or make things easier. While those lies might seem harmless, they can add up and create a lack of trust over time. Satya encourages us to communicate honestly, even when it’s uncomfortable, as long as we do it with compassion.

There’s also a modern twist on Satya—how honest are you online? Social media is often about curating a perfect image, but what would it look like to share more authentically? That doesn’t mean oversharing, but maybe it’s about being okay with showing the messy, real parts of life too.

And here’s another layer: Truthfulness isn’t just about what we say—it’s also about what we think. How often do we tell ourselves stories that aren’t true? Like, ‘I’ll never be good enough’ or ‘I can’t handle this.’ Practicing Satya might mean questioning those stories and replacing them with kinder, more truthful thoughts.

So, this week, I encourage you to explore Satya. Maybe it’s being more honest in your conversations, reflecting on whether your actions align with your values, or questioning those negative stories in your mind. Remember, truthfulness and kindness always go together. See you next time for Asteya.

In this episode of "All Things Yoga," Vicky dives into the first yama, "ahimsa," which means non-violence. She explains that ahimsa goes beyond just avoiding physical harm—it includes being mindful of our words, thoughts, and actions. Vicky encourages us to practice kindness in our self-talk, interactions with others, and even in our environmental choices. She shares practical tips, like pausing before reacting in anger and making small sustainable changes. By incorporating ahimsa into our daily lives, we can foster greater harmony and well-being. This episode is part of a series exploring the eight limbs of yoga. Find me at https://www.eqyoga.co.uk

Transcript

Vicky 00:00:00 Welcome back to all things Yoga with Vicky. In the next few episodes, we're going to think about some yoga philosophy. So yoga is more than just poses on a mat. It's a way of living that helps us cultivate balance, kindness, and inner peace. At its core, yoga philosophy is rooted in ancient texts. One of them is the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which we are going to look at over the next few episodes. It's a foundational guide that outlines the eight limbs of yoga, a pathway to live in a meaningful and fulfilled life. Two of these limbs, the Yamas and Yamas. So the ethical disciplines and personal observances form the backbone of our journey into yoga beyond the physical practice. These ten principles are timeless guides for how we relate to ourselves, others, and the world around us.

In each of my episodes will explore the Yamas and the armas in a way that's relatable to modern life. Each of my episodes will dive into these teachings, offering practical ways to incorporate them into our daily routines. Whether you're new to yoga, practice, inquisitive or a seasoned Yogi, this guide will help you to apply the ancient principles to create a life filled with balance, intention, and joy.

Today we're diving into the first Yama Ahimsa. That Sanskrit word means non-violence. Now you might be thinking, Vicky, I don't hurt anyone, so I've got this covered. But trust me, Ahimsa goes a long way beyond the obvious. So let's start with maybe a traditional meaning. Hims is about avoiding harm physically, verbally, and even mentally. In ancient yogic texts, it's considered the foundation of the entire practice of yoga. If we're harming others or ourselves, it's hard to live in harmony.

So the obvious application of ahimsa is not physically hurting anyone. But let's take a step further. What about the words we use? Have you ever said something in anger or hurt that maybe has upset someone? Or maybe you've been on the receiving end of a harsh comment when someone else has been in pain and spoken to you in a way that you don't appreciate. Words can hurt just as much as actions.

Then there's the way we think. Maybe you've caught yourself having harsh words with yourself, spiraling into self-criticism, perhaps thinking I'm not good enough, or why did I do that? That was so stupid. That is also a form of violence, but this time it's directed at yourself. Practicing ahimsa means being kinder in the way that you talk to yourself.

Now, in modern times, ahimsa can also extend to how we treat the planet. So maybe choosing more sustainable options, reducing our plastic waste, perhaps eating less meat, perhaps taking your carrier bag to the supermarket. All these are ways to reduce harm to the environment. Many people adopt a vegetarian or vegan diet because they believe it minimises harm to animals in the earth. But you don't have to do that. It doesn't have to be all or nothing. Even small steps like maybe eating less meat, or reducing food waste, or reducing your plastic usage all count.

Now let's not forget about emotional ahimsa. Maybe you're holding on to grudges or resentment. Now, those feelings can create tension or harm not just for others, but also for yourself. Now, in lots of meditation practices, there's an instruction to let go, and letting go through forgiveness can be really beneficial. The other way that we can also allow ourselves to get rid of grudges resentments is to set boundaries. This can also be an act of non-violence.

One way I try to practice ahimsa is by pausing before I react. Now, I'm not saying I'm perfect at this, but say that someone cut you up in traffic. Your first instinct is to hoot at them, maybe have a little bit of a 'blue' word. Instead maybe take a deep breath. Maybe let it go. Now you're not excusing the behavior of them cutting you up, but you're choosing to experience peace over conflict. It's not worth raising your blood pressure over.

Now, finally, Ahimsa can even show up on the yoga mat. Now, I may have mentioned before that I have pushed myself into a poses that don't feel right, just because I thought I should be able to do it. Staying in a lunge for a little bit too long and then having a swollen knee for a week afterwards. These are examples of how we need to honor our bodies and respect their limits and listen to them.

So that's ahimsa, nonviolence in all its forms. This week you might want to try and notice in where you can bring more kindness to your life. Maybe it's softening your tone when you're speaking to someone you're annoyed with. Being gentler with yourself or doing something kind for the planet. Thanks for listening and I hope you tune in next time to explore Satya - Truthfulness.