Niyama is a Sanskrit term that means "custom" or "practice". It refers to the five virtues or practices that are considered essential for a Hindu's spiritual growth and self-realization.

• Shaucha: Purity. This virtue emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical, mental, and spiritual purity. It involves regular bathing, dressing in clean clothes, and avoiding unwholesome thoughts and behaviors.
• Santosa: Contentment. This virtue teaches the importance of being content with what one has and not being overly attached to material possessions or desires.
• Tapas: Austerities. This virtue involves practicing self-discipline, self-control, and austerity in order to purify the mind and body.
• Tapas (again, as it is the fifth niyama): Austerities. This virtue involves practicing self-discipline, self-control, and austerity in order to purify the mind and body.
• Isvara Pranidhana: Surrender to God. This virtue involves surrendering one's ego, desires, and attachments to a higher power, recognizing that everything is ultimately connected and interdependent.