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Lama Marut: Explorations of Emptiness

Three Jewels NYC, 6.21.07, 2hr 16min 9sec ~ LamaMarut.org

The Yamas in Daily Modern Life ~

The Yamas are the behavioral restraints or basically, what ‘not’ to do. They constitute the First Limb of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, also known as the Ashtanga path of practice as eloquently described in The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. This is not to be confused with Mysore Ashtanga, an asana series passed through the lineage of Krishnamacharya and Pattabhi Jois. The 8 Limbs are observed in Mysore Ashtanga practice, but there is a difference in the use of the term.

The Yamas are:

Ahimsa ~ Non-Violence

- One immediate action to work towards living non-violently is to become a vegetarian. And of course not being physically violent with others. But there is much damage one can do with words, and even just a glare. You’ve heard the phrase “looks can kill”. Be aware of what you are projecting at all times. And this must begin with one’s attitude towards oneself, where one chooses to place oneself, and how one holds oneself in posture and breath. We need to take care of our health in order to have Peace within. And Inner Peace is the first step to Peace Everywhere.  Om ~ Shanti ~ Shanti ~ Shanti ~ Om

Satya ~ Truthfulness

- It is always best to be honest with others. (Mind you, without ranting on your soapbox!) And if you are afraid of hurting someone’s feelings, then maybe not saying anything is better than lying and consequently perpetuating a false conception. But Truthfulness is also being honest with yourself and your own limitations. There’s nothing wrong with goals, these can be a great motivator, but don’t set yourself up for failure with unrealistic promises to yourself (and others). Otherwise you will perpetuate a loop of disappointment, self-loathing, guilt, and defeat. Take things one step at a time and enjoy the journey!

Asteya ~ Non-Stealing

- This can be interpreted very literally - one should not steal material objects from another. Also one should not take more than one needs, whether it be the Earth’s precious resources during your long hot shower, or a third helping of mashed potatoes! Asteya also extends to more subtle interactions. Eavesdropping for example. Often one begins eavesdropping and before you know it, you are making judgments upon people. The Karma catches up with you instantly here as judgment usually creates and perpetuates a negative state of mind. Think of ways you can change this behavior. (And mind your own beeswax! ;)

Brahmacarya ~ Ethical Intimacy

- This term used to imply celibacy, but in these modern times, we need to extend the interpretation: Honoring one’s partner. Honoring the relationships of others without interference. Working towards bringing people together rather than creating a rift. And also: Moderate sexual activity. Having multiple sexual partners and unprotected sex, well, you know the Karma that can manifest here.

Aparigraha ~ Non-Clinging

- This Yama is about addiction, coveting, hoarding, and more. The insatiable loop of greed and desire. Feeling like “if only I just had that …” or “I can’t let go of this…” Often the problem is within the way we define ourselves and attempt to uphold that image (consciously or subconsciously) when it may be illusory, or was once true but is no longer. Certain patterns of behavior may seem impossible to release, but the key is in the attention upon each moment. And really the moment between each moment. Observe rather than project…

On a material level, this applies literally to clutter. Every single object we own is also stored in our mind somewhere. All of these unnecessary things weigh us down more than we can even imagine. One of the most difficult things to do is organize and clear away the “stuff”. That box of old tapes may only weigh a couple pounds, but add this up throughout the time you’ve held on, it actually weighs much more!

A great way to begin clearing clutter is to start with Satya, being realistic! Clear out one drawer, that’s it. From there see how you feel. You may just feel a little lighter and more motivated to clear out another! A clutter-free home is a clutter-free mind. You are literally making room for creativity and good luck to blossom.

Thank you for taking the time to read about The Yamas. Niyamas will be next!

Namaste ~

Do not exhaust a friend's kindness and loyalty — this way friendship is sustained.

- Chinese Proverb

SUSTENANCE