Yamas: Asteya
As we continue our journey through the Yamas, Asteya is listed third. Asteya translates to non-stealing. This translation when taken literally can cause this yama to be overlooked in it’s importance. Many of us consider the act of non-stealing an easy virtue to follow but the assumption we make is that this yama only applies to the stealing of material goods. Have you considered that non-stealing can also apply to generosity, or stealing ideas or even time? In this article we will discuss the complexities of non-stealing and how we can truthfully assess how it shows up in our lives.
Lesser Known Practices of Non-Stealing:
Respect Others’ Time
In our busy, fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the value of someone else’s time. Practicing Asteya means being conscious of how much time we ask from others—whether it’s in meetings, friendships, or even in a yoga class. Are we mindful of starting and ending on time? Do we respect others’ time by being present and engaged in the moment?
Allow the full spectrum of experiences
Often it is the happy times that are captured, showcased and celebrated. Are you avoiding the other side of the spectrum? It is important to remember the beauty that can be found in the painful and uncomfortable emotions. Grief, pain, and sorrow can offer healing and growth. These emotions can show us even more about ourselves and what we care about. Asteya is to honor all of the emotions.
Avoid misrepresentation and appropriation
In the scope of the yoga practice and the teachings, we must reflect on where the teachings come from and be mindful that we are no taking things for ourselves and owning them. It is normal and natural for the practice to evolve and change to serve modern day students and the culture they live in. With that being said, if we are going to use certain practices, chants, or Sanskrit words we should do our due diligence and understand the true meaning and be sure we are honoring the origins.
Remain transparent and authentic
Practicing non-stealing also means being honest in all our interactions. Are we withholding information or misleading others for personal gain? Are we stealing from relationships by not being transparent? Asteya invites us to be open and truthful, fostering trust and connection in all our relationships. This means owning our ideas and giving credit where credit is due, and avoiding gossip and not “taking” others’ news.
Be honest about what you need
We live in a consumer culture. We are surrounded by advertisements and encouragement to spend and to accumulate. There is also a pressure to compete which causes comparison to others. Gathering things you don’t really need (wealth, power, fame or enjoyment) works against Asteya. Instead we can practice generosity by only taking what we need, donating unused items, and being honest about how our habits and cravings impact the world around us.
Benefits of Practicing Asteya
Self reliance
Sense of abundance
Minimalism
Balance
Freedom from the temptations of comparison, greed, ignorance, appropriation, and attachment allow us to live up to our potential. We can experience more pride and self reliance, and confidence in who we are, how we contribute, and surety about our place in the world.
The practice of Asteya is a beautiful reminder that there is more than enough for everyone. By living in harmony with this principle, we not only improve our lives but contribute to a world where respect, generosity, and kindness flourish.
