Yoga is something that we can practice all the time, not just when we are in a class, or on our mat.
Taking your practice "off the mat" refers to the yoga we can practice that doesn't involve asana (postures). How do we do that?
According to Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, there are 8 limbs of yoga. The first two limbs refer to how you relate to the outside world (yamas), and how you relate to yourself (niyamas). We'll dive deep into these another time, but here's a brief overview:
Yamas - moral disciplines:
ahimsa - non-violence, how you treat yourself and others.
satya - truthfulness, honesty about how you are feeling, what you need.
asteya - non-stealing, of peace, of the present moment.
brahmacharya - rightful use of energy, what you give your energy to.
aparigraha - non-attachment, to outcomes, to what is not yours.
Niyamas - personal observances:
sauca - cleanliness, of your space, your mind.
santosha - contentment, with where you are, what you have.
tapas - discipline, courage, resilience.
svadhyaya - self-study, learning.
isvara pranidhana - connection to your highest Self, something bigger than you.
You may not even realise it, but when you practice these values each time you are on the mat, eventually they can seep out into your life - to your relationships, your work life, interactions with strangers, the universe, and with yourself.
Some ways a practice can translate off the mat:
more kindness to yourself
observing your mental state
practicing patience with loved ones and strangers
dedication to self-care, movement and spiritual growth
practicing presence
a yearning to grow and learn
cultivating connectivity with the world around you
These are just some examples of how you can practice yoga off the mat.
Yoga has many facets and offers many ways to pursue a happier and healthier life - making shapes on your mat is just one of them.
Σχόλια