WHY THE WORLD NEEDS YOGA MAYBE MORE THAN ANYTHING ELSE
The separation of Church and State makes obvious sense. In the founding of the United States, religious freedom was a basic principle, since it had been severely repressed in England and other countries. However, the downside is the separation of spiritual integrity from political action.
Now we see painfully people claiming to be Christian who too obviously do not practice loving thy neighbor. We see that also painfully in politicians who do not draw on spiritual sources for what they say, but on what large donors want them to say and do.
And each of us is naturally challenged to keep finding our spiritual roots and drawing nourishment and guidance for life therefrom.
Finally the valuing of technological progress and profit above all else has led to unfortunate emphases in education and in the work world. For instance, people who study philosophy or liberal arts are ridiculed for their poor job prospects. BUT WE NEED TO UNDERSTAND THIS LIFE AND OUR FULL HUMAN POTENTIAL.
Yoga, though it’s often taught as Asian calisthenics, embodies essential principles and practices. It means “to join together.” So it is a yoga to join the best of Western thought with the best of Eastern. It is a universal practice. Would that it were taught from day one in our families. It is absolutely possible to teach integrity in life, apart from any given religion.
What would we then teach and learn?
1. The spiritual and worldly advantage of non-violence, of being truthful, and generous.
2. Mental, emotional and physical hygiene in work and in home life.
3. To be self-centered but also other-centered, recognizing you are not really the center of the universe
4. The mind, body, spirit benefits of body movement (whether it be traditional yoga postures or any other exercise or sport that engages your whole self)
5. Breathing – as a way to balance the emotions, calm the mind and nourish the body
6. Retreating – periodically extending vacations – with alone time as well as deeper relaxation with one’s loved ones
7. Learning to use your mind creatively and productively while drawing inspiration from deeper places than one’s conscious mind. ‘The conscious mind is a great servant and a lousy master.’ (Ram Dass).
8. Learning how to be still. Honoring and attaining the tremendous value of being able to deeply relax. Finding in that relaxation a sense of connection with the deeper sources of meaning in life and peace on earth.
https://www.sukhayogaaustin.com/
I’ve been attending yoga classes at Sukha Yoga in Austin for many years, lately on-line of course. And I’m continually impressed and nourished by their embodiment of yoga at the highest level - without being holier than thou.
If you take a class on-line or in their Austin studio, I highly recommend it. I can’t imagine coming through these past months well without the support of these classes, community and teachings.