We have spent the past few weeks exploring the Yamas, the external observances which are part of the eight faceted path of yoga. This week, we conclude the journey with the final Yama–Aparigraha -often translated as non-greediness or non-possessiveness. As placing a “non” in front of a word doesn’t often lend itself to the full meaning of the translation, Nischala Joy Devi’s in her book, “The Secret Power of Yoga” translates it as follows:
“Acknowledging abundance (Aparigraha), we recognize the blessings in everything and gain insights into the purpose of our worldly existence”.
I love this translation as it shifts our focus from feeling the drive to amass more, get more, be more, to appreciating what we already have. It brings us into the present moment through the lens of gratitude.
A couple of years ago, a study was published that basically looked at the concept that once a person’s basic needs were met (that is, they are living above the poverty line) and up to around $50,000-$60,000 annual income, the quality of their life greatly improved. What was interesting about this study is that people who earned more than that weren’t necessarily happier. If someone earned twice as much, they weren’t twice as happy as someone earning less. We have this unspoken belief that the more we have, the happier we’ll be…which this study, at least, proved not to be the case.
When we walk the path of striving, particularly when it’s directed to an external goal, we often miss the deeper internal experience of our everyday lives. This past week in classes we have repeated a practice that can have great impact. The practice of gratitude for all that is currently in our lives. Abundance can take many forms beyond financial and material wealth. Reflect on what it’s like to have a safe place that we can call home; to have quality relationships with ourselves and with others; to have a variety of food to choose from in any season of the year; and to have good health despite aches and pains and where we can be out in the world participating in our lives and activities. We can take this a step further by reflecting on a time when our health was compromised through injury or illness and we were unable to do what we had been doing. In moments like those, we look back and realize that we were actually in quite good shape, but missed the moment as we tend to focus on the greedier aspect of doing more or getting stronger taking us out of the abundance of the present moment toward a greedier future.
So as you read this, take a moment to close your eyes and repeat the following statement:
In this moment, I am grateful for _____________.
If we spend moments every day repeating this statement, we begin to realize that we have all that we need. It connects us to the simple beauty of our lives and the richness of the simple things that are always present.
I hope you have enjoyed this journey through the Yamas, have become more curious about how to practice them and are able to start implementing them into the everyday settings of your life.
Compassion and reverence for all.
Truthfulness
Generosity
Moderation
Abundance
These sound easy but we know they take practice. Happy exploring and may you share the merits of your efforts with all!
