AMALAwellness – Yoga in Teesside
Yoga Spotlight – Satya (Truthfulness)
Today we bring a spotlight to Satya and how it can affect our practice. Both on and off the mat.
– What is Satya? –
Satya is a Sanskrit word, translating to truth or essence in English. It is the second Yama which comes from the Eight Limbs of Yoga.
We should be truthful in thought, action and in speech. Our expressions and actions should be true, whilst causing the least harm and influencing positivity. What we say, both internally and externally has an effect on our mind and consciousness.
– How often are we truthful in daily life? –
This is a really difficult thing to practice, if we pause and reflect most would be surprised how often we revert to telling white lies, or falsehoods. Whether it is in our mind internally or externally speaking to others. Exaggerating a situation, belittling ourselves, telling stories, etc. I am sure we can all think of an example when this has occurred in daily life.
Small, white lies can also have just as much effect as big lies too. Or avoidance of speaking the truth. Sometimes, its better to be honest and word things in a way to avoid causing pain if possible. Sometimes, its just better to stay quiet also, rather than cause hurt. However, this is all a fine balancing act, which is why practicing Satya is very challenging.
On the mat, off the mat and Ahimsa…
We practice Satya on the mat, being truthful with our abilities in Asana. Realising our limitations and not pushing too hard, or not beating ourselves up about progress (practicing Ahimsa).
When we start to open up and progress, we realize a lot about ourselves and our behaviours on the mat. Rushing through certain postures, avoiding things that may be challenging.
It starts to transfer to off the mat too and when we pause an reflect we notice truths we maybe avoid, maybe we should speak up about, or we are aware of and should not speak up due to the pain it may cause. It’s like balancing Satya with Ahimsa (non-violence in thoughts, actions and speech).
Do you resonate with this post? Do you incorporate Satya in your life?
I’d Love to hear from you!
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