I will be reading, discussing and applying one Sanskrit principle each day. There are 51 discussed in the book so I will complete the book in the first week of March.
Introdution Page 1 & 2
"The Yoga Sutras (written by Patanjali somewhere between 500BCE and 200CE) came to be accepted as the primary text on yoga philosophy, not yoga postures (asana). Patanjali focuses on yoga as a method of transforming the way we think, communicate, and act by directing our attention inward and cultivating inner contentment.
The Yoga Sutras consist of 195 small, concise aphorisms (called sutra-s) in four chapters. The aphorisms were written in Sanskrit, a language designed to express the subtle aspects of yoga. The text describes human consciousness n detail, including how our heart-mind functions, how suffering happens, and how to refine our body, breath, mind and heart so we are able to cultivate inner happiness and free our selves from negativity."
Principle 1 - ATHA
Readiness and Commitment
"Until one is committed, there is a hesitancy, the chance to draw back. The moment one definitely commits oneself the Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would otherwise never have occured. Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it." Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
Thoughts
Learning anything well requires eagerness, commitment, and perseverance
With an open mind, I can direct my attention inward and see what unfolds
I will set aside time for learning and practicing the principles of yoga
Exercises
Think of a time when you took on too many projects at the same time. Writing down your thoughts ask yourself:
Which projects could have waited?
Honestly, every project could (and did) wait.
How did this overextended state affect the quality of your personal life?
I became more overwhelmed the farther behind I got and I gave up all together.
What could you have done differently?
I could have focused upon one or two books that I was eager to read and wanted to apply to my life. Also I could have focused upon one painting at a time. Thus giving myself a realistic goal to accomplish and room for the busyness of life.
Think of other ares of study you began, but could not keep up. Write down the reasons why you think they ended. Did something more appealing replace them? Did you give them enough of a chance?
Several times I have 'bitten off more than I could chew' and expected myself to follow through with every little task I would like to accomplish. Last summer I designed a reading list that required me to read 10 pages of 7 books a day and I set a goal to have 5 paintings completed by the end of summer. However, working 2 jobs and spending time with friends and family caused me to quickly fell behind on reading and painting.
What commitments have you made in your life that have brought you fulfillment?
My commitment to the Yoga studio and my practice. My commitment to my career at GreenTree. My commitment to my friends and family. Lastly and most importantly my commitment to MYSELF.
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