The Yamas, as described in Patanjali's yoga sutra 2.30, encourage us to live in peace, and guide us in discovering more about ourselves and our nature. As the first of the eight limbs, the Yamas present a simple yet profound message about the art of living; an opportunity to investigate and express, from the physical level and beyond, the key guiding principles of kindness, truthfulness, abundance, self-restraint, and self-reliance. According to Patanjali, these checks and balances provide the foundation of all life affirming action, and true freedom within this life. The value of these teachings are particularly potent as we move mindfully into a new year, and a new decade.