The yamas and niyamas are ethical principles and observances in yoga that provide a foundation for virtuous living and self-discipline, with the yamas focusing on interactions with others through non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, brahmacharya, and non-possessiveness, and the niyamas centering on individual practices like purity, contentment, austerity, self-study, and surrender to a higher power. Studying the yamas and niyamas can help practitioners cultivate compassion and acceptance of oneself and others.