Living the Yamas: How to Know You’re Growing

Am I Making Progress? Recognizing Growth Through the Yamas

Embarking on the journey of practicing the Yamas can feel subtle and slow at times. Because these ethical principles of yoga focus on inner transformation, it can be challenging to recognize when you're making progress. However, growth is always unfolding—sometimes quietly. Here’s how to notice and celebrate the small, meaningful signs of progress in your practice.

1. Ahimsa (अहिंसा) — Non-Violence

Signs of Progress:

- You respond to frustration or conflict with patience instead of anger.

- Your self-talk becomes gentler and more supportive.

- You naturally choose compassionate actions toward yourself and others.

Reflection Prompt:

How have I shown kindness to myself or someone else this week?

2. Satya (सत्य) — Truthfulness

Signs of Progress:

- You feel more comfortable expressing your honest thoughts respectfully.

- Your decisions align more with your core values.

- You notice when you're avoiding your truth and gently correct yourself.

Reflection Prompt:

In what ways have I honored my truth today?

3. Asteya (अस्तेय) — Non-Stealing

Signs of Progress:

- You respect others' time and energy without overstepping boundaries.

- You feel more content and less envious of others.

- You use resources mindfully, avoiding overconsumption.

Reflection Prompt:

Am I appreciating what I have instead of longing for more?

4. Brahmacharya (ब्रह्मचर्य) — Moderation

Signs of Progress:

- You feel more balanced between work, rest, and play.

- You naturally set boundaries with technology or other distractions.

- You engage more in activities that nourish rather than drain you.

Reflection Prompt:

Where in my life am I practicing balance and moderation?

5. Aparigraha (अपरिग्रह) — Non-Possessiveness

Signs of Progress:

- You release control over outcomes and trust the process.

- You find it easier to let go of material items or limiting beliefs.

- You experience more gratitude for what you already have.

Reflection Prompt:

What have I let go of that no longer serves me?

General Signs of Progress in Practicing the Yamas:

- Increased Awareness: You catch yourself before reacting and make more mindful choices.

- Greater Emotional Balance: You navigate emotions with more calmness and clarity.

- Improved Relationships: You communicate more openly and compassionately.

- Inner Peace: You feel more grounded, content, and present.

Tools for Tracking Your Growth:

- Journaling: Reflect weekly on how the Yamas are showing up in your life.

- Mindful Check-Ins: Pause during the day to observe your reactions and choices.

- Feedback from Others: Notice when friends or family comment on positive changes.

Celebrate the Small Wins

Progress doesn’t always look like a big transformation—sometimes it's simply pausing before reacting or speaking kindly to yourself. Recognize and celebrate these moments. They are signs of real, lasting change.

As we wrap up this reflection on the Yamas, we step forward into a deeper exploration of their wisdom. Next week, we’ll begin with Ahimsa, the first of the five Yamas, and explore how the practice of non-violence extends beyond just our actions—it shapes our thoughts, words, and the way we care for ourselves and others. Join me as we uncover how this foundational principle can transform both our yoga practice and our daily lives.

Reflection:

Which Yama do I feel most connected to right now? How can I deepen this practice?

Let’s Grow Together

Share your reflections or experiences in the comments, or tag me in your practice using #YogaWithKelly. Let’s support and inspire each other on this path.

With gratitude and light,

Kelly