June brings with it the changing of the seasons and the International Day of Yoga. It is a month that encourages us to think more deeply about our practice - about what yoga means to us and what our goal is for our practice.

I have previously shared definitions of yoga from various sacred texts. As we practice we must come to our own understanding that is grounded in the philosophy and history of yoga. For me yoga is a lifestyle, a way of living my life that encompasses ethics, building the awareness of Self as Divine, and working towards knowing and fulfilling my purpose in this space. Maintaining and strengthening my body is as much a part of that as taking the time to observe my thoughts and feelings, and learning to manage the energy of my space and the energy that I share with others.

abhyāsavairāgyābhyāṃ tannirodhaḥ

tatra sthitau yatno’bhyāsaḥ

sa tu dīrghakālanairantaryasatkārāsevito dṛḍhabhūmiḥ

- Yoga Sutras of Patanjali 1.12 - 1.14

In the translation and commentary of The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali by Sri Swami Satchidananda, the above sutras are translated as follows:

1.12 These mental modifications are restrained by practice (abhyāsa) and non-attachment (vairāgyā).

1.13 Of these two, effort toward steadiness of mind is practice.

1.14 Practice becomes firmly grounded when well attended to for a long time, without break and in all earnestness.

The definition and practice of yoga, in the Yoga Sutras, is given as the control of the mind and we are provided with different tools which we may use to gain that control:

• Yamas (moral restraints)

• Niyama (observances)

• Āsana (postural practice)

• Prānāyāma (breath and energy control)

• Pratyāhāra (sense withdrawal)

• Dhāranā (concentration)

• Dhyāna (meditation)

• Samādhi (contemplation, liberation)

We may notice that some of these already make up a part of our practice. I know that, for me, yoga is my life and my practice. In thinking about abhyāsa then, I reflect on the steadiness of my pursuit. Each day I incorporate different tools into my practice. Let us reflect on the three qualifications given in the Yoga Sutras for consistent practice:

1. Our practice should be well attended to for a long time. I have been asked, "how often should I practice yoga?". My answer differs according to the level of interest and understanding but for me this is a lifelong, every moment, every day practice. Every breath and interaction is an opportunity for practice.

2. Our practice should be without break. This speaks to the continuity of our practice. For us to achieve some measure of transformation, or healing, or understanding we must be consistent.

3. Our practice should be done in all earnestness. However we choose to practice our yoga we must give it our full attention, and have faith that we will achieve success in our endeavours.

When we think of yoga then, we can think about abhyāsa and, when we think about abhyāsa, we can think about patience, devotion and faith. How do these show up in your life? What comes up in your own reflections?

peace,