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1st Limb of Yoga – Yamas (Interpersonal Ethics) #5: Aparigraha (Non-Attachment)
The first 2 of the 8 Limbs of Yoga are the Yamas and Niyamas. There are 5 Yamas and 5 Niyamas, and we will take a full day on our Daily Yogi journey to focus on practicing each of the five.
Many of the translations from Sanskrit to English for the Yamas (YAH-muhs), or Interpersonal Ethics, are things you should NOT do. I consider many of the Yamas to be different embodiments of The Golden Rule – “do unto others as you would want done to you.” Of course we aim to not do the negative thing, but on the flip side we also should try to embody the positive opposite. Let’s take a closer look at the last of five Yamas – Aparigraha.
All about Aparigraha (Non-Attachment)
Aparigraha (ah-PA-ree-GRA-ha) is “non-grasping on all sides” in a direct translation from Sanskrit. However, it is frequently translated as non-attachment or non-possessiveness.
Aparigraha is “non-grasping on all sides” in a direct translation from Sanskrit. However, it is frequently translated as non-attachment or non-possessiveness. Aparigraha is about both not attaching ourselves to a particular outcome, and also gratitude and enjoying the present moment. Generally, if we are focused on the next thing in the future, we often miss out on what is right in front of us. This does not mean we should not put forth our best efforts or pursue things that make us happy, but the key is to focus on the present and actually experience and appreciate each moment.
Aparigraha is usually translated as non-attachment. Non-attachment is one of the more difficult practices of the 5 Yamas, and usually means taking action without holding yourself to a particular outcome, or ‘letting go’ with others and enjoying their true self in your life without trying to assert your will on them.
The positive opposite of non-attachment is gratitude. I like a more active gratitude practice of writing a Top 5 list for what you are most thankful for today. I also enjoy practicing mindfulness to enjoy the moment and snap myself out of holding attachment to a particular outcome.
Most importantly, I find gratitude to be an instant hack to snap myself out of a negative mindset in any difficult situation – note this is a personal tool, and should not be used on others seeking support.
How to practice Aparigraha (Non-Attachment)
How to practice Aparigraha (Non-Attachment)
- Write a gratitude list
Be grateful for the big and small things in your life. I like making a quick Top 5 list for the day! You may be grateful for physical things like your health or your long hair or your home or your beautiful garden. Perhaps you are most grateful for your family or friends or pets. You may be proud of something you accomplished or positive personal traits like humor or loyalty. Or, maybe you are grateful for past learning experiences or positive changes you see in yourself or the world. Moreover, these are tough times.. if you are proud for getting out of bed or taking a shower, or putting on pants for your zoom meeting, then celebrate small victories!
This practice is about finding the joy and blessings in the moment. Therefore, focus your attention to positivity and abundance already in your life, rather than putting off your happiness for something in the future. - Practice mindfulness
Focus on the present moment, and savor your experience with all five of your senses. One of the easiest ways for me to release attachment to a situation is to practice gratitude and mindfulness, and enjoy the opportunity to grow and the beauty around me.
- Practice active non-attachment
Take action without holding yourself to a particular outcome.
Asana Practices
Here are some Asanas (poses) and Asana series I feel embody the spirit of Aparigraha! Click the images to learn to how perform the pose or more about the Asana style!
Please note this section is currently under construction – please check back soon for more!

Meditation Practices
Here are some of my favorite meditations I feel embody the spirit of Aparigraha!
Morning Gratitude Guided Meditation
Guided Meditation on Non-Attachment.
Please note this section is currently under construction – please check back soon for more!
Aparigraha Quotes
Today’s Practice
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