What are the Yamas in Yoga?

Written By Larissa Rzemienski

The yamas are five ethical principles in yoga that guide practitioners towards moral, social and spiritual growth. The yamas are traditionally considered the first step in Patanjali's eight-limbed path of yoga.

1. Ahimsa: The principle of non-violence. Practicing ahimsa means avoiding harm to any living being, including oneself.

2. Satya: The principle of truthfulness. Practicing satya means being honest with oneself and others, and avoiding deception in all forms.

3. Asteya: The principle of non-stealing. Practicing asteya means respecting the possessions and property of others, and avoiding theft or taking things without permission.

4. Brahmacharya: The principle of moderation. Traditionally, brahmacharya referred to celibacy, but in modern times it is often interpreted as practicing moderation in all aspects of life, including food, drink, and sexuality.

5. Aparigraha: The principle of non-attachment. Practicing aparigraha means letting go of material desires and attachments, and focusing on the present moment instead of obsessing over the future or past.

Larissa Rzemienski

Larissa Rzemienski began her yoga journey to heal following the loss of her spouse at a young age. As she dove deeper into her yoga practice, she decided to embark on the journey to become a certified yoga teacher. In 2015 she completed her 200-hour teacher training through LifePower in Tempe, Arizona. In 2019, she completed her 300-hour teacher training through Urban Yoga in Phoenix, Arizona. In addition, Larissa has certifications in Yoga Nidra, Yin Yoga, Meditation, Restorative Yoga, and as a Sound Practitioner. Larissa has also led several yoga teacher training programs for 200 and 300 hour students.

Larissa creates yoga offerings, yoga sequences, and classes that are unique and specialized for all her clients. She weaves in creativity through all her classes and loves learning more about yoga philosophy and yoga sutras. Larissa has served as the local lululemon store ambassador for the past several years and has offered large community events and in-store events for the lululemon community.

Outside of teaching yoga, Larissa is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Guidance Counselor for Grades K-12. She is a telehealth counselor and teaches college courses in counseling and mental health. Larissa has a Master of Counseling degree, M.B.A. in Marketing, and Ed.S. in Leadership.

Larissa also serves as a Wish Granter for Make a Wish Arizona.

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