Tapas

The third niyama, tapas, traditionally translates to ‘austerity’ or ‘discipline’. The word tapas is derived from the root Sanskrit verb, ‘tap’ which means to burn and evokes this sense of ‘fiery discipline’. With these translations, we can say that the practice of tapas invites you to cultivate a sense of self-discipline, passion, and courage in order to burn away the physical, mental, and emotional obstacles and challenges that may stand in the way of finding our true selves and true flame.