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RAMAKRISHNA ANANDA

Patanjali's First Step — The Yamas

Which qualities naturally express from your soul?

The yamas of the Eightfold Path are guidelines for spiritual growth. As we discover and abide in our true self, the soul’s qualities naturally express through us. Each of the five yamas (positive character traits) already exist within us.

All Yogas

Ahimsa

As we abide in the soul, its qualities naturally express in our life. The first yama is ahimsa, harmlessness. When you enjoy soul contact, you feel awe and wonder at the beautiful life force and consciousness within you. You realize how precious your life is and recognize the lives of others are equally magnificent.

As a result of sensing the sacredness of the soul, you don’t wish to harm anyone. Through soul contact you gain a great sense of love for people. You then naturally and gratefully treasure your own life and honor the lives of others.

  • Harmlessness:  as you treasure the life within yourself, you also recognize and value the life in others
  • Truthfulness:  as you value and express truth, you come to know the truth of your soul
  • Non-stealing:  you refrain from taking what is not yours. Know that whatever you need will come to you
  • Non-sensuality:  you relate to others as spiritual beings, not just physical bodies
  • Non-greed:  you are positive, generous, loving and giving of your resources
  • Practicing these soul qualities leads to discovering and dwelling in the soul

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