Our Secret Self

Yoga teaches us that we are more than just a collection of muscles and bones, and that we possess an inner spirit or soul. In yoga philosophy, the physical body is considered to be a vehicle for the soul on its journey towards truth and enlightenment. Like a hidden jewel, the soul is always there for us to discover. It is always with us. The regular practice of yoga can take us to this special internal place, so that we can experience the real us. As our awareness of our physical body grows, so too does our emotional sensitivity.

Personally, yoga for me is a process of self-discovery. It is the unfeeling and unravelling of the layers deep within our core. I have found connection with it when we learned about the Nadis. I have always thought that anatomically, our bodies are just plain science. Yoga encourages us to use our natural, inner resources, and with guidance you will see that you have all you need to be happy within yourself.

From digging deep within us, I have learnt that one aspect of yoga has to do with our actions. It means acting so that all of our attention is directed toward the activity to which we are engaged. This practise of the physical aspect can start at home and can then be applied to daily life. Aligned with the guidelines set for living by Patanjali, it encourages us to avoid injury, by underlining the importance of being nice to our bodies. It asks us to know our strengths and weaknesses and to be proud of who and what we are. It teaches us to be flexible and open to change, allowing time for postures, like everyday situations, to evolve rather than to control. And teaches us not to be jealous of what others have and to nurture contentment within ourselves.

Keep breathing. Namaste.

By : Erica