Yoga Philosophy
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Welcome to our forum dedicated to exploring the profound wisdom of yoga philosophy! Whether you’re a seasoned scholar or just beginning to delve into the ancient texts and timeless teachings, this is a space to connect, learn, and discuss the deeper meaning behind the practice. Share your insights, ask your burning questions, and journey with us as we unravel the rich tapestry of yogic thought.
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Let’s talk about the powerful “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Hi” that we chant at the end of a yoga practice!
️ “Shanti” means peace, and repeating it three times isn’t just for emphasis!It’s a prayer for peace on three levels:
peace in our bodies
peace in our minds
and peace in the wider world.It’s a beautiful way to integrate the benefits of our practice and extend that serenity outwards. What does “Shanti” mean to you? Share in the comments!
#YogaCommunity #OmShanti #YogaWisdom #MindfulClosing -
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Namaste everyone!
Let’s delve into one of the foundational principles of yoga philosophy: Ahimsa (अहिंसा). This is the first of the Yamas, the ethical guidelines for how we interact with the world around us and within ourselves.
Simply put, Ahimsa translates to non-violence. But it’s much more than just refraining from physical harm. It encompasses:
Non-harming in our thoughts: This means cultivating kindness and compassion towards ourselves and others, even when faced with difficult situations or people. It involves letting go of negative self-talk, judgment, and resentment.
Non-harming in our words: Speaking truthfully, kindly, and constructively. Avoiding gossip, harsh criticism, and words that could cause pain or suffering.
Non-harming in our actions: This is the most obvious aspect – refraining from physical violence towards any living being. It also extends to how we treat the environment and all creatures.
Why is Ahimsa so important in yoga philosophy?It serves as the bedrock for our entire practice, both on and off the mat. When we approach our yoga with Ahimsa, we listen to our bodies, respecting their limits and avoiding pushing ourselves to the point of injury. When we extend Ahimsa outwards, we cultivate compassion, empathy, and understanding in our relationships and interactions
Let’s discuss! Share your thoughts on how you understand and practice Ahimsa. What are some challenges you face in embodying this principle?
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Namaste, fellow seekers!
Let’s dive into a foundational concept from the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali: “Sthira Sukham Asanam” (स्थिर सुखम् आसनम्).
At first glance, it might sound like a fancy Sanskrit phrase, but its meaning is beautifully simple and incredibly profound for our yoga practice and beyond.
Breaking it down:
Sthira (स्थिर): Means steady, stable, firm, and alert. Think of a mountain – grounded and unwavering.
Sukham (सुखम्): Means comfortable, easy, joyful, and relaxed. Think of a gentle breeze – light and at ease.
Asanam (आसनम्): Refers to a yoga posture or seat.
Putting it together, “Sthira Sukham Asanam” essentially translates to:“A yoga posture should be steady and comfortable.”
This simple principle holds immense wisdom:
Beyond the Physical Struggle: It reminds us that yoga isn’t about forcing ourselves into extreme poses with tension and strain. True asana cultivates a balance between effort and ease.
Finding Your Edge: We explore our edge, the point where we feel sensation, but we remain grounded and relaxed within that sensation. It’s about mindful engagement, not forceful pushing.
Cultivating Inner Stability: By finding stillness and comfort in our physical postures, we begin to cultivate that same steadiness and ease within our minds and emotions, even amidst the “storms” of life.
Think about your next yoga practice:Can you find that sweet spot in each pose where you are both stable and relaxed? Where effort and ease dance together?
