Asteya

Asteya means non-stealing and forms one of the five ethical pillars of Patanjali’s yoga philosophy, and is an important principle in the Bhavagad Gita. The practice of Asteya goes beyond just theft; it also means non-hoarding, whether it’s food or material possessions. Asteya, which teaches us to consume mindfully, rests on being content with what we already have. It’s nearly impossible to practice true contentment from a mentality of lack. It’s worth noting that Asteya, along with the other four Yamas, or restraints, is practiced not merely to avoid judgment, but to keep the conscious and subconscious mind clear of Samskara (mental impressions) that ultimately get in the way of one’s awakening.