Ashtanga: A Journey to the Infinite Within
As the owner of a yoga studio in Syracuse, New York, I often find myself thinking about the profound journey that yoga offers us. In a world filled with distractions and external pursuits, we find ourselves yearning for something deeper, something that transcends the material. Ashtanga yoga is a practice that asks us to turn within ourselves and find the limitless potential that lies within ourselves.
The Essence of Life: Desire and Expansion
While there are countless interpretations of the essence of our life, one truth seems to resonate more deeply: at it’s core, life is driven by the desire for connection. Desire fuels our thoughts, actions, and ultimately, our existence. Consider the metaphor of an inmate released from confinement. Initially, the joy of newfound freedom is exhilarating, but soon the desire for more space, more experiences, and more connection emerges. This deep yearning reflects our innate drive to expand and grow on an inner, spiritual level.
In today’s world, we witness this desire, this hunger, manifesting itself in many forms—wealth, power, prestige. Yet, these external pursuits often lead us down paths that end in emptiness and frustration. The truth is, no amount of material gain can truly satisfy our fundamental longing for expansion. To fulfill this yearning, we must take a journey that leads us deeper within ourselves, and Ashtanga yoga serves as a powerful roadmap for this journey.
Understanding Existence: The Physical and the Subtle
Another profound question arises: what type of existence are we seeking? At its core, existence encompasses a broad spectrum that ranges from the mere physical and material that surrounds us to the more subtle existence that lies deep within us. Imagine a boat gliding across a lake leaving a bold wake behind it. Initially, the boat’s wake is clearly defined and pronounced, but as the boat moves farther away, its wake becomes more and more delicate until finally it is almost imperceptible. So it is with our journey of Ashtanga yoga, guiding us from the material and obvious aspects of our physical existence to the much more subtle depths of our consciousness.
Ashtanga yoga invites us to engage with the yamas (ethical restraints) and niyamas (observances), which lay the foundation for our yoga practice. These principles encourage us to cultivate a calm within ourselves rooted in, among other things, non-violence, truthfulness, and contentment. Through the physical practice of asana, we purify our bodies, while pranayama (controlled breathing) and pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses) help us refine our minds and senses. Ultimately, this journey prepares us for the more subtle practices of yoga: dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation), and perhaps, one day, samadhi (union).
Ashtanga: Simplicity and Self-Discovery
What makes Ashtanga yoga extraordinary and remarkable is its intense simplicity. We engage in the same series of postures, yet our experiences within that practice are ever-changing. As we step onto our mats, we withdraw inwardly to observe our internal landscape. Are we tense or relaxed? Eager or resistant? Each practice becomes a mirror, at once reflecting both our emotional and physical states, drawing our attention to aspects within ourselves that have often gone unnoticed or forgotten in our daily life.
This self-awareness is a precious gift. As we cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves through Ashtanga, we find the clarity and strength to grow and flourish. The practice becomes a tool of transformation, allowing us to meet our challenges and embrace our strengths. As the saying goes, “Practice, and all is coming.” This mantra serves as a reminder that our journey is not about perfection but about the progress and fulfillment found in self-discovery.
The Journey Within: Embracing the Infinite
As we delve deeper into our Ashtanga practice, we begin to uncover the infinite potential that resides within us. The journey inward is not always easy; it requires courage, commitment, and vulnerability. Yet, it is through this exploration that we can truly expand our consciousness and connect with our authentic selves.
At Glow Yoga in Syracuse, we carefully foster a community that embraces this journey. We encourage our students to approach their practice with an open heart and a curious mind. Each class is an opportunity to explore the depths of their being, to meet and overcome their limitations, and to grow. Together, we create a space where individuals can support one another on their own unique paths, reminding each other that we are all in this together.
Exploring the Infinite Within
Ashtanga yoga is more than just a physical practice; it is an amazing journey toward self-discovery and expansion. In a world that more often than not prioritizes material achievement, we must remember that true fulfillment lies deeply within. By turning our attention inward and engaging with the principles of Ashtanga, we can find our way through the complexities of our lives and nourish the infinite potential that has always resided within us.
As we continue to explore our practice, remember that our journey is never-ending. Each day on the mat is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect – both within ourselves and with those around us. Together, let us embrace the infinite within and celebrate the transformative power of Ashtanga yoga.
