Yamas and Niyamas: The Foundation of Yoga with Chitra Ganesh

The Yamas and Niyamas, introduced in the Sadhana Pada (the second chapter of Patanjali's Yoga Sutras), form the foundation of a balanced and meaningful life. These disciplines are pivotal not just for spiritual seekers but also for individuals navigating the Grihastha Ashram (householder stage) and Vanaprastha Ashram (retirement stage).They guide us in creating a value-based life that we can pass on to the next generation, shaping a future rooted in ethical living and spiritual growth.#yoga programs #Free yoga courses #Online Meditation Courses #Mental health courses #Yoga for Senior Citizens #Emotional intelligence courses

Program Overview

Join Chitra Ganesh for an insightful deep dive into the Yamas and Niyamas, the first two pillars of yoga. Through this exploration, you’ll discover how these timeless principles can transform both your yoga practice and your daily life.
In this chapter, Patanjali explains how to aspire for absolute freedom (Kaivalya) by embracing these yogic principles. The Yamas and Niyamas act as stepping stones, helping us fulfill our responsibilities with integrity while experiencing the liberation that comes from not being overly attached to material or ego-driven pursuits.
Integrating the five Yamas and Niyamas into daily life is a powerful way to transform our outlook, deepen our yoga practice, and embody ancient wisdom. These principles shift yoga beyond physical exercise, infusing it with mindfulness and a sense of purpose. While many begin yoga for its physical benefits, it is the enhanced awareness, balance, and inner harmony that often sustain the practice.
By focusing on our breath, cultivating mindfulness, and integrating these ethical disciplines, we can calm our minds and create a greater sense of unity and peace, extending far beyond the yoga mat. The true essence of yoga lies in bringing the tranquility and alignment we experience on the mat into every facet of our lives.Interestingly, the Yamas and Niyamas share similarities with the Ten Commandments in Christianity and the Ten Virtues in Buddhism. This universality underscores the shared human desire for ethical living and spiritual evolution across cultures and traditions.By adopting these principles, we can lead lives enriched with integrity, purpose, and harmony, while setting a powerful example for future generations. As Chitra Ganesh explores these ancient teachings, you’ll learn to embrace the deeper essence of yoga and experience its transformative power both on and off the mat.

Who Is This Class For?This class is perfect for you:
  • If you're looking for a way to reconnect with the true purpose of your yoga practice.
  • Immerse yourself in the lineage of yoga, and explore its essence.
  • Refresh your understanding of yoga
  • Know the basics of the spiritual aspect of Yoga.

Program Highlights:
  • Introduction to Yama and Niyama
  • Patanjali's Yoga Sutra on Yama and Niyama
  • Q&A

Course Curriculum

Yamas and Niyamas: The Foundation of Yoga with Chitra Ganesh

Schedule

Day Time Title
06-06-2026 08:00-09:30 PM Explanation of Yama & Niyama by Chitra Ganesh
07-06-2026 08:00-09:30 PM Application of Yama & Niyama

Meet Our Mentors

Chitra Ganesh

Chitra Ganesh is a Viniyoga teacher & Vedic Chant Teacher in the tradition of T Krishnamacharya & TKV Desikachar. She has been a practitioner and teacher of yoga for over 20 years. Her spiritual journey began in early childhood when she developed a love for Sanskrit through chanting the śloka-s of the Bhagavadgītā. She also learned Carnatic classical music for 14 years. After becoming a certified teacher, apart from teaching āsana classes, she also taught in several teacher training programs. Over the years, she has undertaken serious study of many yogic texts, most importantly, the Bhagavadgītā and the Yogasūtra-s of Patañjali.

She is also a Viniyoga teacher trainer and the founder of the Śraddhā School of Yoga. She teaches one-on-one online classes covering yoga philosophy, Vedic chanting, non-Vedic chanting, Yogasūtra chanting, Bhagavadgītā chanting, āsana and Sanskrit. She is committed to imparting the holistic wisdom of yoga and believes that all yoga teachers must be lifelong students.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to have a degree in Yoga to attend this program?

No. Yama and Niyamas are the foundational moral codes that guide individuals toward the right way of living. This program is designed to benefit people from all walks of life, irrespective of their familiarity with yoga.

Will there be recordings of the program?

Recordings are unavailable for this program, as this program is hosted twice in a year therefore we encourage LIVE attendance.

Will there be a doubt session in the program?

There will be a dedicated Q&A at the end of each session, providing you with the opportunity to have all your doubts and queries addressed by our expert. Additionally, if you have any concerns or questions after the program concludes, please feel free to email us at info@hellomyyoga.com. We will promptly forward to the expert for further assistance.

Testimonials

I have taken many online offerings through hellomyyoga. Their offerings are timely, relevant, and insightful. In the modern world, the ancient teachings of yoga seem more relevant than ever. hellomyyoga does an excellent job of sharing the teachings with modern practitioners.

~Julia C. Jonson, Yoga Instructor, USA