Yoga does not just change the way we see things, it transforms the person who sees. ~ BKS Iyengar
Autumn is almost here. It's my favorite season. Growing up on the East Coast, I always loved the leaves changing their colors - greens turn to yellows, oranges, reds, purples and browns. The warmth of Summer recedes into a crisp cool. What does this all mean to a yogi?
Autumn is a very spiritual time. It symbolizes change, comfort, protection, preservation, balance and letting go. This Fall, I've decided to immerse myself in deep philosophy study. What once used to be an onerous endeavor, is now a graceful achievement. The teachings in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras are so dense, yet so simple. His systemization is truly a masterpiece. In just one sutra, the first sutra, we learn so much about what is yoga. Yoga is so much more than the asana we do in class. It's a way of life. It's how we choose to live, to make us better beings, to find true peace.
I.1 atha yogānuśāsanam
(Now then yoga is being explained - Vyasa)
(With prayers for divine blessings, now begins an exposition of the sacred art of yoga - BKS Iyengar)
Here, in this terse succinct sutra, Patanjali tells us there is more to us than we know. We are not who we think we are. We are ever-changing.Yoga is a process. It's not just physical, but also mental and spiritual.
We are in challenging times now. On top of a pandemic, most of the West Cost is enshrouded in raging fires and smoke. We find ourselves trapped inside our own homes again. Our hearts are being challenged. Now is not the time for taking risks. Now is a good time for contemplation, self-reflection. To watch what's going on without judgement or over-analyzation. Be kind. Do nourishing things. Be calm.
What to do? Now is a good time for heart-centered asana, to feed our souls. In my classes we will try and lift the tamas (dull), still the rajas (activity) and find saatva (illuminative). Practice, join a class with me, or simply sit quietly and remember things to be grateful for.
Stay safe. Be well.
Namaste,
Mimi
Awareness : Reflection : Transformation : Peace
Some of you may or may not know, but I am the programming chair of IYISF. What does that mean? It means I run a committee that decides what programs we offer: classes, workshops, guest teachers, teacher trainings, etc. I could use some of your input to help me figure out this new way of offering classes online! Some of you also asked me about adding more classes. If you have a minute, please fill out this survey. I'd really appreciate your feedback.