you're already doing this one.
tapas: self-discipline
the niyama that's easier to practice than you think -- and that you're probably already doing
written by diane, moondog yogahonestly, i forgot about this one. i was going through all the niyamas in my mind, and i kept missing this one. accident? i think not. but why did i forget about it? probably because, on the surface, self-discipline sounds hard. it comes with a sense of how things "should" be. often, we practice discipline for others -- sometimes parents, sometimes teachers, sometimes it's part of a religious practice. so i kept avoiding this niyama because i felt like i wasn't doing it. you might feel that way, too. but it's helpful to remember that this is self-discipline -- it's internal and personal. you are doing it for yourself, to reach some personal goal.
also, it's important to realize that you are already practicing tapas. every time you show up on the mat, you are practicing tapas. whenever you make time to meditate or focus on your breath, or turn inward to alleviate stress, you are practicing tapas.
every time you show up on the mat, you are practicing tapas.
tapas is variously translated as self-discipline, heat, catharsis, austerity. all of these ideas are similar in that they are catalysts for change. so, tapas is transformative, and we can see how it works in our own yoga practice. the more often and consistently you show up on the mat, you reap the benefits of tapas -- more flexibility, better stress reduction, and so much more.
tapas is also saucha
it occurs to me that tapas is also saucha -- purifying. as i've pointed out before, all niyamas are in service to saucha, but for me, the relationship between saucha and tapas is clear. when i commit to meditating every day, i'm creating a transformative pathway to a one-pointed mind. when i show up on the mat on a regular basis, i am also moving closer to the goal of a one-pointed focus.
i invite you to take a look at your own habits around the practice of yoga, and see how many of them create tapas and how they transform your practice. i think you'll be surprised, as i was, that you are already creating tapas and practicing saucha.
ayurvedic fall rejuvenation with june
showing up consistently -- the heart of tapas -- is also the foundation of june's 3-week fall rejuvenation course. it's a chance to build the kind of intentional, nourishing rhythm that carries you into the cooler months feeling grounded and well.
september 24 – october 15, 2026 · $150 · registration closes september 16
register here or visit the course page to learn more.
you are already creating tapas. keep showing up.
light your lamp & you light the world --
diane and the moondog team