Shree Krishna has consistently asked us to observe Yam and Niyam in our life.
In Srimad Bhagvat Mahapuran Shree Krishna says that Yamas must be always practiced and Niyamas must be practiced as much as possible as the circumstances permit.
Rishi Patanjali has give us the eight steps of Yoga and the first two steps are the Yam and Niyam and then comes the third step of Yoga Aasana.
In Kurma Puran we are instructed to live our life with the observance of Yam and Niyam. If you live your life with observation of Yam and Niyam then you will not commit sins and live a divine life.
YAM
Yam are five and they are for our relations with others:
Yam
Explanation
1
Non-violence
Non violence by thoughts, speech or acts against all beings (Ahinsa or non-injury).
2
Truthfulness
Truthfulness in all your dealings.
3
Non-thieving
Not taking of what belongs to others by thievery, cheating, untruthfulness, force etc.
4
Continence
Always maintaining chastity in thoughts, speech and acts(Brahamcharya).
5
Non receiving of gifts
Never taking gifts, in poverty or richness, from others because it carries obligation and thereby loss of independence.
NIYAM
Niyam are five and they are for self regulations:
Niyam( consistent habit)
Explanation
1
Purity of Mind and Body
External purity of the body by bath, grooming, etc. and internal purity of mind by truth and virtues.
2
Contentment
From contentment immense happiness is gained.
3
Austerity
Austerity or “tap”(like fasting) purifies body both internally and externally.
4
Study of religious teaching
Reading of religious scriptures or reciting mantras or Shree Vishnu Shahastranam.