Fear less, give it all, just keep working intensely and reflecting . I relate these learnings to the yoga yamas and niyamas, specifically on Asteya (non-stealing, non-covetedness or jealousness), Aparigraha (abstain from greed and non-possession), Tapas (intense, uninterrupted efforts) and Swadhyaya (self study)
I have my fears because I have injuries from incorrect movements or overuse of muscles and these led to physical pain. I fear also because I was afraid I could not achieve my targets; the goals that I set for myself that kept me on track these while. I believe there are many other stressors too. To overcome my fears, I have to practice Asteya, that is, to pace myself and not compare myself to others or compare myself to the “me” many years ago. It seemed so much easier to acquire a pose such as moving from standing to wheel in my younger days, I have yet been able to do the same. Hence I also need to practice Aparigraha, I have to “let go” of what I used to have. Only with such non-grasping attitude and be willing to learn from zero, then I could move forward.
Through teachings of Master Paalu, I now wake up earlier daily, to practice the five Kriyas and through teachings of Master Weiling, I started my own practice of asanas with higher awareness of my body movements and the muscles involved. With the understanding and acceptance that my targeted results or desired outcomes may not come so quickly, I will continue to practice Swadhyaya for self awareness and improvement; coupled with the spirit of Tapasah.
I picked up yoga formally after reading a motivational quote “ if you don’t make time to work on creating the life you want, you’re eventually going to be forced to spend a lot of time dealing with a life you won’t want”. So here I am on a journey of self-discovery, fulfillment and I am enjoying it. I know this journey carries on even after this YTTC. Last but not least, thank you to my teachers and classmates for making this journey a beautiful and fun one for me. 😉
Kai Yueh
