Spiritual growth often rests on a bedrock of simple, steadfast ethics—Swami Sivananda’s approach springs straight from the timeless yamas and niyamas of yoga, yet carries a fresh, down-to-earth vibe. Picture them as a moral GPS, steering every thought, word and deed toward higher awareness.

1. Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
   • Cultivate compassion in action and speech.
   • Even in the hustle of modern life—debates raging on social media, hurried commutes—gentleness remains a superpower.

2. Satya (Truthfulness)
   • Honest expression dissolves inner conflict, like sunlight burning through morning mist.
   • Truth doesn’t demand harshness; it simply shines with integrity.

3. Asteya (Non-Stealing)
   • Beyond not taking what isn’t offered, this includes respecting others’ time, energy and creativity.
   • In a world of content sharing and remix culture, true generosity means asking permission and giving credit.

4. Brahmacharya (Self-Restraint)
   • Not only celibacy, but moderation in all pleasures—food, screen time, even daydreams.
   • Keeps the mind clear, ready for deeper contemplation.

5. Aparigraha (Non-Ho­arding)
   • Travel light—material clutter breeds mental clutter.
   • Generosity becomes second nature; letting go sparks fresh inspiration.

6. Shaucha (Cleanliness)
   • Inner and outer purity: a tidy space mirrors a tidy mind.
   • In the era of eco-anxiety, mindful consumption cleans up both home and planet.

7. Santosha (Contentment)
   • Gratitude turns what’s “enough” into abundance.
   • Even during global unease, a thankful heart finds its steady ground.

8. Tapas (Discipline)
   • Small daily commitments—morning stretches, five minutes of silence—forge inner fire.
   • Like training for a marathon, consistent effort builds unshakable willpower.

9. Svādhyāya (Self-Study)
   • Reflect on sacred texts, personal patterns and current events.
   • Awareness of personal triggers becomes a doorway to transformation.

10. Īśvara Praṇidhāna (Surrender to the Divine)
    • Trust life’s unfolding, beyond personal agendas.
    • In an age of hustle culture, letting go sometimes proves the bravest move.

Together, these ten precepts form a living guide—no lofty jargon, just practical wisdom for navigating everything from sleepless nights to the latest headlines, all while keeping the heart aligned with higher ideals.