Asteya goes beyond the literal sense of not taking what isn't ours. It also encompasses the idea of not coveting or taking credit for others' ideas, time, or energy. It means not taking more than you need.

The opposite of “non-stealing” is “generosity” or “giving”. Practicing Asteya means fostering a sense of contentment and gratitude for what we have. When you focus on what you have, and not on what you feel you are missing, you start to cultivate a sense of having and being enough.

In your yoga practice this might mean letting go of comparing yourself to what others are doing and enjoying what you are able to do on your mat. Treasure what you can do with your body and your mind.

Off your mat, reflect on times when you have “stolen” from yourself or others during the day and then reflect on the moments when you have given freely, and how that made you feel.