Om Som Yoga + Ayurveda Podcast

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On this week’s episode: Svādhyāya – The Study of the Self

In this episode, we explore the fourth niyama: Svādhyāya, commonly translated as “self-study.” But this isn’t just about introspection or journaling prompts—it’s about studying that which observes all things. Aaron and Paige unpack the twofold nature of Svādhyāya: the outer practice of studying sacred texts and the inner practice of contemplating the eternal witness within. Together, they explore how this practice moves us beyond self-help and into Self-knowledge—the kind that points not to personality, but to presence.

Key Concepts Discussed:

Svādhyāya defined:From sva (self) + adhyāya (study). Not just reflecting on your thoughts or behaviours, but remembering your deeper nature as witness consciousness—the sākṣin.

Twofold Practice:

1. Study of scripture, texts, teachings that reflect back our essence

2. Self-inquiry and observation—asking “Who am I?” as taught by sages like Ramana Maharshi.

Journaling as a doorway:

Tools like freewriting or stream-of-consciousness journaling can help expose subconscious thoughts and make space for witnessing mind from a distance.

Language & identity:

The importance of conscious speech—owning your experience without identifying with it (e.g., “I’m experiencing a migraine” vs “my migraine”). Recognising the gap between your stories and your Self.

Symbols & reminders:

How sacred images, deities, and rituals serve as mirrors of our own inner divinity. Even simple things—candles, altars, plants—can reflect Self-awareness.

Yoga Sutra 2.44 (svādhyāyāt iṣṭa-devatā-saṁprayogaḥ): Through Svādhyāya, we enter into union with our chosen deity or ideal—allowing our soul to resonate with divine qualities and awaken its true nature.

Practical Applications:

Daily Study: Choose one sacred text or verse to read each day—not for information, but for remembrance.

Self-Inquiry Prompts: Ask, “Who am I beyond this thought?” or “What am I believing right now?” to dissolve surface-level identity.

Watch Your Words: Practice speaking from your inner witness—acknowledge bias and ownership without fusing with it.

Create a Sacred Reminder: Keep a visual or ritual symbol nearby that returns you to presence each time you see it.

Join a Sangha: Practice alongside others on the path. Self-study doesn’t mean going it alone.

Final Reflection:

Svādhyāya isn’t about solving yourself—it’s about seeing yourself clearly. Every time you return to the seat of the witness, you are doing the deepest yoga. And it is from this place that clarity, contentment, and even devotion can arise.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

PRACTICE WITH US:

365 Sadhana Sangha 

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On this week’s episode: Tapas – Igniting the Fire of Practice

In this episode, we explore the third niyama: Tapas, often translated as discipline, heat, or inner fire. Aaron and Paige reflect on how Tapas isn’t just about effort or intensity—it’s about showing up with sincerity, consistency, and discernment. From the ancient metaphor of the yogi bringing rain not through action but through inner harmony, to stories of students seeking accountability and the modern challenges of social media, this episode is a deep dive into the true essence of self-discipline in yoga.

Key Concepts:

Tapas (तपस्): From tap meaning "to burn"—a transformative inner heat that purifies.

Not just doing more, but showing up with clarity—even if what’s required is stillness, rest, or surrender.

The friction of beginning is part of the process—momentum comes with repetition.

Tapas in thought means returning to your centre, not fighting distractions.

Tapas in words means speaking your truth with compassion and courage.

Tapas in action is staying the course—refining your habits to align with your dharma.

Textual Sources:

Yoga Sūtra 2.43 — “Through Tapas, impurities are destroyed and the perfection of the body and senses is achieved.” (kāyendriya-siddhir aśuddhi-kṣayāt)

Yoga Sūtra 2.1 — Lists Tapas, Svādhyāya, and Īśvarapraṇidhāna as the path of Kriyā Yoga.

Also supported by teachings from the Bhagavad Gītā and Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā, which describe Tapas as a pathway to spiritual clarity and physical refinement.

Practical Integration:

Recognise where your discipline may actually mean letting go, not pushing harder.

Create frameworks and routines that support consistency (membership, mentorship, regular classes).

Honour your unique starting point—discipline doesn’t mean burnout.

Use community and teachers for accountability until self-reliance develops.

Speak truthfully, especially when it’s uncomfortable—but always with kindness.

Connect with us

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

On this week's episode: Santosha

What does it mean to be content—even when things aren’t going your way? In this week’s episode, we explore Santosha, the second of the Niyamas, and its deeper meaning beyond gratitude or blind positivity. Contentment in yoga is about being undisturbed, about finding peace in what is, rather than striving for what isn’t. We reflect on the relationship between contentment and discomfort, and how Santosha can be practiced in thought, word, and action—on the mat and in daily life.

Definition & Etymology of Santosha

Santosha (सन्तोष) is often translated as contentment, but it stems from sam (complete, whole) and tosha(satisfaction, contentment).

Together, it implies a deep, total contentment—an acceptance of what is, free from craving or resistance.

Key Concepts Explored

The difference between gratitude and Santosha.

Contentment as non-striving, non-reactivity, and presence.

How to meet discomfort in practice with equanimity.

The problem with chasing happiness through external things.

Slowing down to find joy in simplicity.

Santosha as an attitude cultivated in the nervous system.

Santosha in Thought, Word & Action

Thought:
Cultivating acceptance, releasing judgment, and practicing present-moment awareness rather than comparison or craving.

Word:
Speaking words that express appreciation, wonder, and presence instead of complaint, gossip, or negativity.

Action:
Simplifying routines, choosing rituals that support presence (like mindful eating, slow tea-making, or watching the sunrise), and learning to sit with what is.

Textual Sources

Yoga Sūtra 2.42: santoṣāt anuttamaḥ sukha-lābhaḥ
“From contentment, the highest happiness is attained.”

Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā: Suggests Santosha brings joy to the yogi and is a prerequisite for higher states of clarity and stillness.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

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On this week's episode: Saucha

Saucha (शौच) is one of the five Niyamas in Patanjali’s Eight Limbs of Yoga.
It refers to purity, cleanliness, and clarity—in thought, speech, and action.

It’s not about moral superiority or rigid purification rituals.
It’s about creating the conditions for clarity to arise, for energy to flow, and for yoga to unfold.

Etymology of Saucha

Śuc (शुच्) – to be clean, bright, pure

Saucha (शौच) – cleanliness or purity, often referring to inner and outer purity

From the mind to the body to the physical environment, Saucha is a process of refinement, not rejection.

Saucha in Practice: Mind, Speech, Action Mind

Journaling, meditation, and affirmations help create space between thoughts.

Replace negative self-talk with clarity, compassion, and non-judgmental awareness.

Think of the mind like a mirror: we’re not trying to smash it, just to clean it so it reflects truth.

Speech

Speak slowly and intentionally. Choose words that are authentic, kind, and true.

As the yogis say: As you speak, so you create (abracadabra).

Notice when your language regurgitates others' beliefs instead of your own.

Action

Hygiene, home organisation, conscious consumption—all actions can be imbued with Saucha.

Asana spaces and rituals (like setting up a mat or folding props) become acts of inner purification.

Treat your body like a temple—not out of ego, but devotion.

Yoga Sutra 2.41
“Sattva śuddhi saumanasya aikāgrya indriyajaya ātmadarśana yogyatvāni ca”

“Through the practice of Saucha, one attains clarity, cheerfulness, one-pointedness of mind, mastery of the senses, and readiness for Self-realisation.”

Final Thoughts:

Saucha isn’t about obsessively chasing perfection. It’s about creating an environment—mental, physical, and energetic—where clarity can arise.
One drop of poison won’t pollute an ocean of purity. So pour in the clear water, every day.

Clean the mirror. Speak from truth. Live lightly. And let yoga happen.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

PRACTICE WITH US:

365 Sadhana Sangha 

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On this week's episode: Aparigraha

What does it mean to live without clinging? In this episode, we explore the yogic principle of Aparigraha, often translated as non-possessiveness or non-attachment. We look at how this practice invites freedom, simplicity, and deeper joy—when we let go of what no longer serves us.

Definition of Aparigraha Aparigraha means more than just refraining from hoarding—it’s about consciously choosing to release grasping, consumption, and control. It teaches us to live in harmony with what we need, rather than being ruled by what we want.

Etymology of Aparigraha

A (non)

Pari (all around)

Graha (grasping, seizing)

Together: “non-grasping” or “not taking more than what is freely given.”

Aparigraha in Daily Life

In thought: Releasing attachments to outcomes and past experiences.

In speech: Speaking without exaggeration, manipulation, or seeking gain.

In action: Practicing generosity, reducing consumption, and simplifying daily life.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Aparigraha

1. Minimalism – Questioning excess and choosing simplicity.

2. Letting Go Practices – Releasing emotional baggage and clutter.

3. Gratitude and Contentment – Practicing Santosha to shift from wanting to appreciating.

4. Generosity and Service – Giving freely without attachment to outcome.

Textual Sources

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (2.39)

“Aparigraha-sthairye janma-kathaṁtā-sambodhaḥ.”

Translation: When one is established in non-possessiveness, the knowledge of past and future lives arises.

– Swami Satchidananda Commentary

Hatha Yoga Pradipika (1.15)

“Atyāhāraḥ… ṣaḍbhiryogo vinaśyati.”

Translation: Yoga is destroyed by overindulgence, talking too much, excessive effort, bad company, and greed.

– Swami Muktibodhananda Commentary

Final Thoughts Aparigraha is not about deprivation—it’s about liberation. When we let go of what we’re holding too tightly, we make space for clarity, creativity, and connection.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

PRACTICE WITH US:

365 Sadhana Sangha 

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On this week's episode: Brahmacharya

What is Brahmacharya?

Often translated as moderation, right use of energy, or celibacy, Brahmacharya in yoga is about consciously directing your life energy towards spiritual growth and personal purpose.

It invites mindfulness in how we expend our physical, mental, and emotional energy.

Etymology of Brahmacharya

Brahma (ब्रह्म) – Universal consciousness or ultimate truth

Charya (चर्य) – Conduct, behaviour, or way of life

Brahmacharya (ब्रह्मचर्य) – Conduct that aligns you with higher consciousness

Brahmacharya is about using your energy intentionally and purposefully rather than dissipating it unconsciously.

Brahmacharya in Daily Life

Brahmacharya in Thought

Being mindful of how mental energy is spent—avoiding excessive worrying, fantasy, or rumination

Directing thoughts towards uplifting, meaningful, and constructive purposes

Brahmacharya in Words

Communicating purposefully and clearly, avoiding idle gossip and unnecessary talk

Using your words to inspire, uplift, and connect deeply with others

Brahmacharya in Action

Channeling energy into actions aligned with your values and long-term wellbeing

Avoiding overindulgence in food, entertainment, and distractions that drain vitality

Creating space for rest and rejuvenation, understanding that rest is as important as action

Practical Ways to Cultivate Brahmacharya

Mindful Energy Management

Regularly reflecting on where your energy is invested

Learning to say no to commitments that drain you unnecessarily

Balanced Lifestyle Choices

Choosing nourishing foods, activities, and relationships that replenish your energy

Recognizing and addressing addictive habits or behaviours

Conscious Relationships

Cultivating deeper intimacy and presence in personal relationships

Practicing honesty and clarity about boundaries and intentions

Meditation & Self-Reflection

Regular meditation to help focus and stabilize your energy

Reflecting on your life's purpose to ensure your energy aligns with your deeper values

Textual Sources for an Expanded Understanding of Brahmacharya

Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (2.38) "Brahmacharya-pratiṣṭhāyām vīrya-lābhaḥ."

Translation: "When firmly established in moderation, one gains great vitality and strength." Source: Swami Satchidananda Commentary

Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Chapter 1, Verse 57) "Brahmacharyeṇa tapasā deve mṛtyum upāghnata."

Translation: "Through Brahmacharya and disciplined practice, one conquers even death." Source: Swami Muktibodhananda Commentary

Final Thoughts

Brahmacharya isn’t about restriction—it’s about empowerment through mindful choice and intentional living.

Practicing Brahmacharya cultivates deep reserves of vitality, enabling you to live your dharma fully.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

PRACTICE WITH US:

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On this week's episode: Asteya

What does it really mean to live without stealing?

Asteya, the third Yama from the Yoga Sutras, is often simplified as “non-stealing.” But in this episode, we explore how it actually asks us to look deeper—at our thoughts, our speech, and our actions—to see where we might be taking what hasn’t been freely given.

Whether it’s stealing time, energy, attention, credit, or even our own rest and peace, Asteya invites us to shift from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance and generosity.

We unpack:

Textual Sources for Asteya

Final Thoughts

Asteya is a practice of trust—trusting that we are enough, that we have enough, and that the more we give, the more we grow. Through this lens, yoga becomes not just a path of self-improvement but of collective harmony and liberation.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website:

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We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We’d love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM

PRACTICE WITH US:

365 Sadhana Sangha 

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200 Hr Berwick

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On this week's episode: Satya

What is Satya?
Satya is often translated as truthfulness—but in the yogic tradition, it is about more than just honesty. It is about living in alignment with truth in thought, word, and action.
True Satya involves seeking clarity, authenticity, and integrity—not just avoiding lies.

Etymology of Satya
Sat (सत्): that which is real, unchanging, eternal
Ya (य): to be, to embody
Satya (सत्य): to be in truth, to embody reality

Satya invites us to perceive reality beyond illusions, projections, and conditioned beliefs.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Satya

Textual Sources for an Expanded Understanding of Satya

Final Thoughts
Satya is not about brutal honesty—it’s about conscious truthfulness.
When we pair truth with compassion, we create clarity, connection, and freedom.
Living in truth allows us to co-create reality in alignment with our deepest self.

Thank you for listening to the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda Podcast.

Please share this episode with someone it might support, and connect with us on social media or via our website.

Instagram: ⁠@OmSom.yoga⁠

Website: ⁠OmSom.yoga⁠

We operate a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops, and Yoga Teacher Training programs. We'd love to connect with you wherever you are on your journey.

OM.

PRACTICE WITH US:

365 Sadhana Sangha 

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Bali Retreat

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On this week's episode: Ahimsa

What is Ahimsa?
Ahimsa is often translated as non-violence or non-harming, but it extends far beyond physical harm. It is the practice of living in a way that minimises harm in thought, word, and action—toward ourselves, others, and the world around us.

Etymology of Ahimsa
A (अ) – Prefix meaning "not" or "absence of"
Himsa (हिंसा) – Harm, violence, or injury
Ahimsa (अहिंसा) – "The absence of harm" or "the practice of non-violence"

Ahimsa is not just about what we avoid, but what we cultivate—compassion, patience, and care.

Ahimsa in Thought

Practical Ways to Cultivate Ahimsa

Textual Sources

Final Thoughts
Ahimsa is not passive—it’s active love.
It’s fierce compassion.
It’s choosing to return, again and again, to kindness.

Connect with us and our community:

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PRACTICE WITH US:

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On this week's episode: Samyama

What is Samyama?

Samyama is the combined practice of Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption). It represents the deeper stages of meditative practice, allowing practitioners to uncover profound insights and achieve self-realisation.

Etymology of Samyama:

Sam (सम्): together, complete, integrated

Yama (यम): control, restraint, discipline

Together, Samyama refers to the disciplined integration of mind and consciousness.

Where is Samyama mentioned?

The concept of Samyama is outlined in the third chapter (Vibhuti Pada) of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali.

Yoga Sutras (3.4–3.6):

"Trayam ekatra samyamah"

Translation: The three (Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi) together constitute Samyama.

"Tajjayat prajnalokah"

Translation: Through mastery of Samyama comes the light of higher knowledge.

Breaking Down the Three Stages of Samyama:

Dharana – Concentration From the root "dhri" meaning "to hold", Dharana is the act of fixing the mind on a single point of focus—such as a mantra, breath, or visual object.

Dhyana – Meditation From "dhyai", meaning "to contemplate", Dhyana is the uninterrupted flow of awareness. The practitioner and the object of focus begin to merge.

Samadhi – Absorption From "sam" (together) and "dha" (to hold), Samadhi is full absorption into the object of meditation. The sense of individual self dissolves, and unity consciousness arises.

How to Begin Practicing Samyama:

Start by choosing a focus point—whether a mantra, object, or concept.

Cultivate Dharana by bringing attention back again and again.

Allow awareness to flow into Dhyana as distractions fade.

Gently enter Samadhi as the sense of separation dissolves.

Benefits of Samyama:

Heightens inner stillness and clarity

Unlocks intuitive wisdom and insight

Facilitates deep self-awareness and spiritual growth

Textual Sources for Samyama:

Hatha Yoga Pradipika (4.6): "Chitta-vrittinirodhah samyamena"

Translation: The cessation of mental fluctuations is achieved through Samyama.

The Deeper Potential of Samyama:

The Yoga Sutras describe how Samyama can be applied to various objects or concepts to develop siddhis (extraordinary abilities) such as clairvoyance and telepathy. But Patanjali also reminds us not to get caught in these powers—they are signposts, not the destination. The goal is liberation (kaivalya), not distraction.

Final Thoughts:

Samyama teaches us the art of disciplined surrender—of focusing deeply, staying present, and dissolving into the infinite. Wherever you’re at on your journey, this practice can guide you toward inner stillness and expanded awareness.

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If you got something out of today’s episode, share it with someone who could benefit.

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/omsom.yoga Visit our website: omsom.yoga

We own a yoga studio in Berwick, Victoria, Australia, offering classes, workshops & Yoga Teacher Training programs.

We would love to connect with you, no matter where you are on your journey.

OM