| Lately I have been reminding myself and others that Yoga is a Spiritual practice that goes beyond the physical practice of poses. The practices and techniques are for us to know the Spirit that embodies and dwells in this Humanness. This is called Sadhana. Sadhana is a spiritual practice. It is the relationship with Spirit, the Spirit that embodies this human form. Yoga is a spiritual practice – the teachings of Yoga are to connect us to Spirit and help us form a deeper connection with the divine, experience a sense of aliveness, and reach in-lightenment, and inner peace. December is the time of the year when I feel the pull to be introverted. It’s the season when the weather, the daylight, the night time naturally calls me inward to reset. Similarly, I also feel the impulse to be in service, quiet contemplation or meditation, Kirtan-Chanting, supporting our community through the food bank and other supportive initiatives. For me this feels like a reset on Sadhana, Living Yoga, reflection, rest and restoration, retreating, and wintering. Sadhana can be a ritual, a conscious and purposeful practice. It could involve meditation, prayer, mantra chanting, Yoga poses, or any other discipline aimed at self-improvement and spiritual awakening. The essence of sadhana lies in its regularity and deliberateness. It’s often a daily practice, done at specific times (e.g., early morning or sunset), that helps to develop focus, devotion, witness the mind and emotions, and create faith. The purpose of sadhana is to go beyond the ego identifications, witness the mind, and cultivate compassion, humility, patience, and wisdom. It is seen as a tool for the transformation of the individual on all levels—physical, mental, and spiritual. Sadhana is to deepen one’s spiritual connection. Sadhana helps to awaken higher consciousness through self-realization. Sadhana is deeply personal and can vary depending on the tradition, teacher, and spiritual inclinations. While sadhana can be practiced individually, it is often supported by a gathering of like-minded individuals (Satsang) or a Sangha ( community). So you cultivate the capacity to carry this reset with you everywhere you go, to everyone you meet. This is how Sadhana becomes Living Yoga. With Love and Gratitude always, Hasu and all your Friends at Yoga by the Sea Sea you in the Ocean |