8 Limbs: Yama 2: Satya

“Three things cannot be hidden; the sun, the moon and the truth.” ~Buddha

Satya is all about our truth - honesty and truthfulness in our thoughts, actions and words. Being sincere and authentic so our actions align with our values is what this yama asks us. In our yoga practice, we get really honest with where we are at each and every time we step on the mat. How is my body feeling today? What feels like an appropriate depth on one side compared to the other side, and letting things be different and honoring ourselves right where we are at. This is an example in our physical practice.

Satya, in our yoga practice and in other aspects as they apply to all parts of our lives, is something that changes and remains fluid, asking us “what is true at this moment?” Some of our truths we’ve held deeply may not be true in this moment. Maybe someone you deeply trust told you something that you held true and tied to a thought or a pattern and that is no longer real or true. This is just an example of being honest in our lives, with ourselves and others as well as our intentions.

Satya asks us to untangle and challenge our beliefs and let go of anything that is no longer true. We practice without judgement and welcome all parts of ourselves to our practice.