We stay with Patanjali’s Sutras, where 1.5 and 1.6 introduce five types of fluctuations of the mind. But we are focused just on the first of these this week. Sutra 1.7 discusses correct knowledge. To me, it feels as though this touches upon intuition, that sense of knowing to your core something to be true. The Sutra details the types of proof that support correct knowledge. But ultimately it is up to us to discern and decide and like so many things, it is a skill that we can develop if we pay attention to it and nurture it.
Iyengar’s Light on the Sutras of Patanjali has some interesting comments on this Sutra, and the progression from discernment to true inner wisdom. He explains how our asana and wider yoga practice help to cultivate this ability. So in classes, students are asked to listen for their inner wisdom in their practice and to heed it: to know when they have more available within an asana, and when they have reached their edge, or need to pull back a bit. So a fair few challenges to help them hone their skills! Well done to all the students last night. And Happy Easter! |
AuthorRuth teaches yoga in Cheltenham UK, weaving yoga philosophy into the asana practice to help students connect yoga on the mat to their lives off the mat. Archives
January 2018
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