Asteya, Bhrahmacharya and Aparigraha are the core sadhanas for spiritual awareness and detachment. Asteya refers to integrity, Brahmacharya refers to dedication to spiritual growth and Aparigraha means to be free of any baggage (be it emotional or mental) and to have inner peace and freedom.

Asteya signifies non-stealing or non-covetousness. It is a key principle (Yama) in Yogic and Hindu philosophy. It implies not taking anything by grabbing. What one takes it is given freely. It encourages contentment, abundance mindset, respecting intellectual property, personal boundaries, working with trust and honesty. It also implies to protect one’s own attention by not being distracted.

Brahmacharya means conduct consistent with Brahman. It is the path to the divine encompassing self-control, continence and the correct use of shakti (energy). It does not only indicate celibacy. It specifies purity in thought, word and deed and practicing pratyahara (mastering of all senses).

Aparigraha denotes non-possessiveness, on-greed and non-attachment. It means that one should seek contentment from within and not from external sources. One should not be possessive and remove clutter from every aspect of one’s life.

These three words are very powerful words and for us to understand their meaning, we have to work with our thoughts, our senses and our negative qualities. Yogic Sadhana comprising Asteya, Brahmacharya and Aparigraha will guide us like a lit lamp.

One does not have to make any vows, all one needs to do is to be aware, detached conscientious, and reflective. Practicing Samvrit pranayama will enable one to proceed on this path as it will lead to balance of ones Prana.

Aim Hrim Klim