CYTA October theme written by Diana Davidson
‘God grant me the serenity
To accept things I cannot change
Courage to change the things I can
And the wisdom to know the difference ‘
This is an affirmation much used in the treatment of people with all types of addictions and mental health problems. But I feel that we, as yogis, could also use it to improve our own lives.
Is it not what the Eightfold Path – yamas and niyamas are all about?
Serenity or contentment is what we are all striving for – probably to be achieved after much inward searching , honesty, practice and self – discipline.
Personally, I find acceptance particularly challenging .
If I am not careful, anger about loss of physical abilities , getting older and all that entails, gets in the way. I have to think constantly about non violence ( Ahimsa) in words and deeds towards myself.
Also, truthfulness ( Satya) by recognising my thoughts towards myself and my present situation.
But I can change my situation by using self discipline (Tapas) and to use Asanas to improve my physical fitness – always bearing in mind that breath control (Pranayama ) gives me the mental & life force energy to work towards acceptance.
Acceptance after loss of loved ones- or loss of opportunities. It’s hard to think that life will ever be the same – but there are the memories and experiences shared that we can build on to enhance our future. Regard the situation as a new beginning, perhaps even an exciting challenge.
Acceptance is a tool you can use to understand yourself and become a more rounded contented individual.
Samyama is where meditation , contemplation come together to produce a balanced state of mind . I would also include the daily practice of Mindfulness.
This is my personal journey , but all of us will probably experience loss of some kind or other-grief for a loved one, illness, status, personal expectations , and will have to come to terms with the change in our lives. Acceptance is not only about loss, so perhaps we also need to accept good fortune and what changes that can bring, but again we might need to challenge our attitudes (Satya).
I have found that breaking my attitudes down using the Eightfold Path makes a path towards acceptance/ contentment a little easier to manage.
I think that any postures done with the yamas and niyamas in mind can be practised at this time in our lives, but it might help to remember that forward bends are associated with humility. The inability to bend forward may indicate a stiff, proud, stubborn or fearful personality, so Paschmottasana might need to go somewhere near the top of your list.
Bhramari ( humming bee breath) relieves stress and tension and lessens anger, anxiety, insomnia and reduces blood pressure- it is also said to have healing qualities. There’s plenty of competition from the bees in my garden at the moment.
Namaste Diana