What I now know of Yoga is not the same as what I knew 30 years ago, 3 years ago or even 3 months ago. My understanding continues to evolve as I change. Everything evolves and in many ways this evolution is required for longevity. We are a reflection of our environment, and as we know seasons change.
Embrace Self-Care with a One-Day Chakra Balancing Urban Yoga Retreat: Nurturing Your Body, Mind, and Community
In our fast-paced, constantly connected world, finding time for self-care can be challenging. Stress and anxiety are prevalent, and many of us struggle to balance work, social obligations, and personal well-being. One powerful way to address these challenges is by participating in a one-day chakra balancing urban yoga retreat. Even in just one day, this retreat offers a sanctuary amidst the city's hustle and bustle, providing numerous benefits for the nervous system, physical body, and community connection. Let's explore the importance of joining a one-day chakra balancing urban yoga retreat for comprehensive self-care.
The Importance of Balancing the Chakra System: A Holistic Approach to Well-Being
In the realm of holistic health, the chakra system holds a prominent place. Originating from ancient Indian traditions, chakras are seen as energy centres within the body that influence our physical, emotional, energetic, and spiritual well-being. Understanding and balancing these chakras can lead to a more harmonious and fulfilling life. Let's explore why maintaining balance in the chakra system is crucial across these four dimensions.
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Ahimsa: The Yogic Way Of Being Kind
The very first – and often thought of as the most important – Yama, is ‘Ahimsa’, which means ‘Non-violence’ or ‘non-harming’. (‘Himsa’ = ‘hurt’ and ‘a’ = ‘not’) In this sense, we’re talking about non-violence in all aspects of life. When we act with ‘Ahimsa’ in mind, this means not physically harming others, ourselves, or nature; not thinking negative thoughts about others or ourselves; and making sure that what we do and how we do it is done in harmony, rather than harm.
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SVADHYAYA - Self Study
In order to move forward, to work towards our goals and to build the life we want, we often have to first look inward. We need to be aware of our thoughts, our actions, and perhaps our inactions. Shying away from these this can be tempting, but can potentially hold us back. The article below discusses one of the yoga Niyamas - Svadhyaya, and how we can work this practice into our daily lives in order to work towards the life we want.
The word itself is made up of Sva, meaning own, self, or the human soul, and Adhyaya, meaning lesson, lecture, or reading, and can imply the practice of studying scriptures, as well as a practice of studying the Self.
‘self’ study and ‘Self’ study….
In many pieces of writing regarding the practice of yoga, when we see the word self written with a small ‘s’, it refers to ourselves in this physical form, our ego, and who we consider ourselves to be on a daily basis. When you read the word ‘Self’ with a capital ‘S’, this is likely to refer to the true self, Atman, or the divine within us.
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra says: “Study thy self, discover the divine” II.44
It’s probably fair to say that the more we realise what we are not, the closer we come to realising who or what we truly are. By studying ‘the self’ and recognising our habits and thought processes, we realise how much of what we do and think is far from who we really know we are.
When we listen to the ego, we often do things that don’t always align with our true beliefs or intuition. The ‘I’ or small ‘self’ is mostly concerned with survival, which usually entails getting what it wants in all situations, and proving it is indeed ‘the best’ despite what consequences that might have for us. The small self judges, criticises, fears, conditions, doubts and is essentially the cause of the chitta vrittis, or ‘fluctuations of the mind’.
By paying attention to, or ‘studying’ our ‘self’, we become more aware of the things we do that harm us, and also those which serve us and bring us closer to that process of ‘yoking’ or ‘uniting’ with the true Self.
Studying the scriptures
There are thousands of yogic texts containing fascinating, inspiring and transformational writing about the practice of yoga in all its many forms. Some of the most popular and well-known texts which are still studied today include The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, The Bhagavad Gita, and The Hatha Yoga Pradipika.
While it is advised that any sincere and dedicated student of yoga would benefit from reading, studying and reflecting upon these texts, not everyone who practises is going to be able to make time to delve into this ancient wisdom.
If we apply the practice of svadhyaha to our modern-day lives and the situations we’re in right now, ‘studying of the scriptures’ does not strictly have to mean sitting down with a huge copy of The Upanishads or chanting The Vedas; it might mean finding a book or a piece of writing that deepens your own yoga practice. Reading articles online about yoga, or a book which helps us move closer towards ‘Self-realisation’, is also a way of studying. By deepening our own knowledge, understanding and connection to yoga by continuing to read, research, be curious about yoga off the mat, we therefore cultivate our own practice of svadhyaya.
(It’s not enough to just read, though….)
While yes, reading about yoga and all its different aspects is beneficial, it doesn’t make very much difference unless we reflect upon it. When reading something about yogic practice, we can meditate upon how it resonates with us, whether it bears any resemblance to our own experiences, and therefore apply it to our own lives. Having a lot of books and information is one thing, but fully understanding and living what we learn allows our yoga practice to become more a part of our lives.
Svadhyaya on the mat
Studying our habits on the yoga mat can go a long way towards recognising our habits off the mat too. The way in which we practise yoga is actually very reflective of the way we practise life…. and a person’s physical yoga practice often reveals a lot more about them than they may think.
When we’re on the mat, there’s nowhere else to hide. The daily distractions of phones, chores, emails, and TV are no longer there to take our minds away from ourselves. We actually have to pay attention…. This can be a little intimidating at first, and a yoga practice can sometimes reveal more about where our problems are rather than how perfect we are – which as we know, is very good for destroying the ego.
Studying the breath is key
This is usually the first thing we learn when starting a yoga practice. The breath tells us how we are. A short, shallow breath held high up in the chest is often a signal that we’re stressed or worried about something, or that we’re physically pushing ourselves beyond healthy boundaries during the practice. If you notice your breath resembles this, first ask yourself why. Is there a reason to be stressed or worried? And does it matter right now?
Where do you hold tension?
The jaw, forehead, neck, shoulders and upper back are common places we tend to store our fears and worries. When you get to your mat, first become aware of what you can un-do before you begin to ‘do’ anything else. Ask yourself why this tension might be present, and how often does it arise during your practice?
What thoughts are filling your head?
If our time on the mat is the only time we give permission to ourselves to stop, it’s often also the time when our mind decides to unload its millions of whirling thoughts. If you notice your mind becomes especially busy when you come to practice, it’s not a case of ‘blocking out’ thoughts, rather it’s more useful to recognise and acknowledge them for what they are – as this will teach us a lot more about ourselves. Realising what thoughts enter our mind on a regular basis helps us become aware of many other aspects of ourselves.
Watch your thoughts, they become words; watch your words, they become actions; watch your actions, they become habits; watch your habits, they become character; watch your character, for it becomes your destiny. – Author Unknown
Svadhyaya in everyday life
As we’ve mentioned, reading anything which helps deepen your own yoga practice and move closer towards the Self can be a daily practice of svadhyaya – whether it’s ‘studying’ a traditional text, a blog, a book you really resonate with, or a poem.
Svadhyaya in the sense of studying our selves in daily life though, requires us to really take our yoga practice off the mat….
Knowing what we’re doing in each moment requires us to pay attention, but asking the question “why am I doing this?” requires us to be aware and fully present, which is ‘paying attention’ on a whole other level. Questioning our actions is something we may often avoid, as it is usually a catalyst for change, and as humans we don’t often like change….
Again, it comes down to recognising our habits, and discerning between the ones which come largely from an ego-based place, and which ones are the result of listening to our true Self.
The practice of taking a proverbial step back and observing and questioning our actions can eventually allow us to disentangle ourselves from those aspects of our lives that are harmful towards our wellbeing. As with anything worth doing, it isn’t easy, but it’s well worth the effort and dedication.
A Self-study practice
Observe yourself as though you were watching someone else; observe the way you speak to friends and family, the way you react when plans change, the way you hold yourself when walking or sitting, or even just the way in which you get dressed each morning… it all tells the story of who and how we are in this moment.
The practice of svadhyaya requires satya (honesty) in order to view ourselves from an honest standpoint, tapas (discipline) – because taking an honest look at ourselves isn’t always something we like doing…. And ahimsa (non violence) which reminds us to look upon ourselves without judgement or criticism.
“Yoga is the journey of the self, through the self, to the Self” – The Bhagavad Gita’
Article author: Emma Newlyn
Article source: https://www.ekhartyoga.com/articles/philosophy/the-niyamas-svadhyaya-or-self-study
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The Yoga Yamas and Niyamas in life
The Yamas and Niyamas are an integral part of yoga and can provide a lot of valuable guidance on how to fruitfully navigate life with yourself and others in mind. The article below provides an overview of the Yamas and Niyamas, as well as detailing how they may apply to our day to day lives and how we can use them for reflection or a catalyst for change.
Yoga is a comprehensive system for wellbeing that extends far beyond asana (physical yoga postures); it is literally a way of living. Yoga is designed to bring increased awareness of not only your body but also your thoughts, through various techniques and teachings. Included in these teachings are the ten Yamas & Niyamas, which are foundational to all yogic thought.
The Yamas (restraints) & Niyamas (observances) may be thought of as moral guidelines that help us move deeper into our own authenticity and can support the leap towards a more meaningful life. The Yamas and Niyamas are the first two limbs of the eight-limbed path, which is a step-by-step path towards the realization of yoga, as described in the ‘Yoga Sutras of Patanjali’. They are the most concrete places to start, as they relate directly to how you behave outwardly in the world and inwardly toward yourself. Incorporating these principals into your life can have a profound effect on your yoga practice and your peace of mind. Rather than trying to integrate them all at once, choose the one or two that resonate the most with you. You may find that by simply focusing on one, the others begin to fall into place.
YAMAS
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra lists five Yamas, or moral restraints, which apply specifically to how you behave outwardly toward other beings.
Ahimsa (Non-Violence)
Freedom from Harming. Minimise the amount of harm you are causing to yourself and others in thought, word and deed, by becoming aware of the ways in which you may bring suffering to others. Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra says “When you are established in ahimsa (non-harming), others will stop harming you.” You will be a space for gentle love and kindness.
Satya (Truthfulness)
Truthfulness. Before you speak, ask yourself, “Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?” Satya includes right speech and truthful communication, as well as skilful listening. When approached with a piece of gossip, be a discerning listener. When truly practicing satya, one’s words and deeds are all in alignment with one another. Don’t think one thing and then say something else. Being truthful does not necessarily mean being as blunt as possible. Practice ahimsa as well, by telling the truth in the most skilful and constructive way possible.
Asteya (Non-stealing)
Freedom from Stealing. Do not take what doesn’t belong to you. Do not take that which you haven’t earned. This applies to material things, as well as respecting others’ time, energy and hard work. If you’re always showing up for appointments 10 minutes late, you are stealing another’s valuable time. If you take credit for someone else’s idea or hard work, that is not practicing asteya. Asteya also means balance between give and take. For some people, this may mean taking what is needed more often.
Brahmacharya (Moderation)
The yogic path discourages overindulgence in many things, including food and sex. Obsession with these things may cause you to lose touch with what is truly important in life. Brahmacharya is often described as moderation, specifically sensual. In classical yoga, brahmacharya refers specifically to sexual moderation. Never use sexuality to dominate or manipulate another being. Being faithful to your partner would be a form of brahmacharya. Don’t be too hard on yourself, everything in moderation, including moderation.
Aparigraha (Non-hoarding)
Freedom from Grasping. Develop sensitivity to what you really need. Don’t take so much that others don’t have enough. Don’t be possessed by your possessions. As long as you are lusting after the next great thing, you will always have a sense of lack, which leads to suffering and a feeling of separation. If there is something you want, take the necessary steps to make it happen. Let go of your attachment to the outcome.
NIYAMAS
Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra lists five Niyamas, or observances, which apply specifically to how you conduct yourself on a more personal level.
Saucha (Cleanliness)
Cleanliness and purity can be practiced on a number of different levels. A clean environment and living space: clear clutter, keep belongings organized and practice good feng shui. A clean body: clean diet, good hygiene, well kept appearance. A clean mind: consider the amount and the quality of the information you are inputting on a daily basis and be selective about the books and magazines you read, how much time you spend online and what television shows and movies you choose to consume. Clean company: spend time with people who uplift your spirit and inspire you to be your best and set clear boundaries if you have toxic people in your life.
Santosha (Contentment)
Look to yourself and your own innate goodness for happiness; that is the only place you will truly find it. Santosha also means being present. Rather than wishing for things to be different in your life, accept and appreciate the reality of what is. Do you really need things to be different to be happy? Choose to be happy now. Cultivate santosha by making gratitude a daily practice. Notice the moments you are happy, even if they seem to be few and far between. Keep a gratitude journal. Count your blessings. Remind yourself often, “I have enough. I am enough.”
Tapas (Self Discipline)
Transform yourself in the fire of positive change! The term tapas means “heat” and it refers to the discomfort that comes with breaking habitual thought and behavioural patterns to effect positive transformation in your life. If you have ever tried to break a bad habit, you will know that process is often accompanied by physical discomfort. You also recognize that the discomfort is a necessary step toward the change you are seeking. Having tapas is rolling out your yoga mat and doing your practice, even when you’d rather stay home and watch TV and eat chips. It’s pulling an all-nighter to finish an important assignment to the best of your ability. Or holding an uncomfortable yoga pose for those last three difficult breaths because you know it will make you stronger.
Svadhyaya (Self Study)
Be aware of your actions as they are happening. Reflect on them later. Use your reflections to make positive changes to your actions in the future. Taking time to reflect quietly on your day through journaling or contemplation is a wonderful way to practice svadhyaya. Studying of yoga texts and scriptures is also said to be a form of svadhyaya, as you are studying the highest self.
“The person practicing svadhyaya reads his own book of life, at the same time that he writes and revises it.” - B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga
Isvara-pranidhana (Surrender)
Give your life force energy to something higher than yourself. This is devotion and surrender for the small self to the higher self. We practice isvara-pranidhana every time we dedicate or offer up our yoga practice to someone else. This has a powerful effect on your practice. It creates new sense of purpose when your practice is infused with intention and energy. Isvara-pranidhana also means letting go of doubt and making room for faith.
Author: CorePower Yoga blog
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