I first realized that yoga could impact me in ways beyond my physical body during deep relaxation practice in the classes I took over 25 years ago. After 45 minutes or so of physical movement, we would lie on our backs on a yoga mat in a pose known as savasana. For goodness sake, what […]
Yamas
The Many Faces of Greed
The final and fifth yama is aparigraha, or non-greed. In this blog, we’ll examine several aspects of gluttony, including materialism, and the ways in which we exhibit greed in our thoughts and communication. Material Greed Greed is a gross and enduring problem of humankind. Endless stories through the ages have chronicled the devastating consequences of […]
Mindfulness and Moderation
Thus far in examining the Yamas (ethical principles for living from the yoga sutras), we’ve discussed non-violence, truthfulness, and non-stealing. Brahmacharya, the fourth of the five yamas, is often translated from the Sanskrit as conservation or celibacy. It is also understood as moderation. For the purpose of this blog, we’ll focus on moderation. Before we dive […]
How We Steal From Ourselves
The Yoga Sutras of Patangali (circa 200 AD) are a rich resource for self-reflection. This year, because of their great value in supporting equanimity and balance in a world that feels increasingly chaotic, I’m returning to the wisdom of the Yamas: five observances for living an ethical life in society. Practicing the Yamas helps me […]