Yoga is often synonymous with the physical poses we strike on our mats, but the journey toward self-realization actually begins much earlier. This week, we are diving into the First Limb of Yoga: The Yamas.

The word Yama translates to "rein in" or "control." Think of a charioteer gently but firmly guiding their horses; the Yamas are the intelligent behaviors and ethical restraints that teach us how to interact with the external world and, more importantly, how to govern our own reactions within it.

Healing Through Feeling

The Yamas are a practice of allowance. To practice the Yamas is to become a witness, the one who observes the experience without being swept away by it.

We often think that holding in painful emotions makes us "strong," but in reality, suppressing these feelings drains our vital energy (Prana). The Yamas encourage us to be clear about our emotions, using them as tools for self-inquiry. As the saying goes: "You have to feel it to heal it." When we stop running and start observing, we find the "emotional roots" that help us grow.

The Five Ethical Behaviors (YAMAS)

Over the next weeks, we will explore each of these principles in depth.

1. Ahimsa (Non-violence): Practicing non-harming toward others and ourselves.

2. Satya (Truthfulness): Living in honesty, in our thoughts, words, and actions.

3. Asteya (Non-stealing): Not taking what isn't ours, or too much including others' time or energy.

4. Brahmacharya (Right Use of Energy): Non-excess; directing our energy toward what serves our highest self.

5. Aparigraha (Non-attachment): Letting go of the need to grasp or hold onto things, people, or even emotions.

Journaling for Emotional Inquiry

Find a quiet space and allow yourself to sit with whatever is present. Try not to "fix" the feeling, just witness it.

1. Locating the Sensation: Think of a difficult or painful emotion you have been carrying recently. Where do you feel this in your body right now? (e.g., a tightness in the throat, a weight in the chest, a fluttering in the stomach). Describe the physical sensation as if you were a scientist observing it.

2. The Energy Leak: When you try to "push through" or ignore this emotion, how does your body react? Do you feel a sense of exhaustion, tension, or nervous energy? Explore how much energy it takes to keep that emotion tucked away.

3. The Witness Perspective: If this physical sensation had a voice, what would it be trying to tell you? Instead of saying "I am sad/angry/hurt," try saying "I am aware of a sensation of sadness in my heart and I welcome the sensation." How does shifting to the role of the witness change your relationship to the pain?

A Gentle Reminder

As we begin this study, please be kind to yourself. These are "Great Vows," and they take a lifetime to master. Some will feel easy; others will feel like a struggle. As it says in A Course in Miracles, "We forget so we can remember." If you stray from these principles, don't be discouraged. Simply notice, breathe, and return.

With love and light,

Gaby Knight.

P.S. I always love hearing from you! Whether you have a question, a request for a specific class theme or time, or if you simply feel it's time to pause these emails, just hit reply and let me know. I am here to support you however I can.