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The main paths of Yoga (Karma, Bhakti, Jnana and Raja) have the same aim – liberation. Karma encourages appropriate work and an attitude of inner sacrifice. Bhakti is the path of devotion. The Jnana path values knowledge. While Raja is the path of higher spiritual practices like meditation.
Self-discipline is one element common to these paths. Think “yoga” and the automatic response for those familiar with the traditions of Yoga would likely be discipline. There are many practices and milestones to achieve on each path; with results seen over a long period of time. Yet, if we look, we can find compassion at the heart of these paths of Yoga.
In Patanjali’s authoritative text on Yoga, compassion is inherent within the first 5 limbs. These limbs demand action from the yoga student with a kind of tough love. Can you find the compassion within each limb?
Limb 1 – Yama – What is my behaviour like towards others? For example, do I refrain from harming in thought, word and deed?
Limb 2 – Niyama – How can I build my character? E.g. – How content am I?
Limb 3 – Asana – Is my asana practice balanced and in harmony? E.g. Is there relaxed attention?
Limb 4 – Pranayama – Can I expand the life force? E.g. Is this action raising my vibration?
Limb 5 – Pratyahara – How well am I managing the senses and mind? E.g. Is my attention scattered?
It is easy to refer to the limbs as steps; but steps imply there is an order of attainment, an unforgiving system to follow. Limbs is the preferred descriptive word.
Each student has his or her own experience with the limbs. It might be useful to consider your relationship with each limb? Are you distant from the Yamas? Do you feel embraced by a limb? How would you describe your relationship with each limb? My relationship with each limb is rather fluid. At one time pranayama is my a close friend; another time asana.
It might also be important to reflect on the role compassion has played in your yoga and how it can guide you in the future? I like the action of consciously placing my hands on my heart (Karma Yoga). It is such a comforting mudra that allows a deeper connection with the Divine (Bhakti Yoga). The sensation softens my heart into a receptive, meditative space (Raja Yoga). At this time of my life I rather like bringing this compassionate feeling into my practice. The wonder is that wisdom (Jnana Yoga) seems a close companion to what’s at the heart of Yoga – Compassion.
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