Abhyasa & Vairagya: The Two Wings of the Bird
Our practice this month takes us on a journey of balance within and without, enlivening the two wings of our inner bird, enabling us to soar toward Self Realisation! By cultivating Abhyasa & Vairagya in equal measure the aim is to maintain the essence of flying on the inside, whilst leaning into our physical practice where we fly like a bird on the outside too.
In the pursuit of personal growth and transformation, two essential concepts emerge from the depths of yoga philosophy: Abhyasa and Vairagya. Often recognised as the divine couple, Shiva and Shakti, these two inseparable aspects of consciousness guide us on our journey towards inner peace and self-realisation. But what exactly do they entail, and how can we cultivate them in our daily practice?
What is Abhyasa?
Abhyasa, pronounced ah-bee-yaaaah-Sah, translates to ‘practice’ in Sanskrit. It signifies persistent effort toward achieving a state of equanimity (yoga) which unites the body, mind, and soul. Rooted in the Sanskrit term ‘as,’ meaning ‘to sit,’ Abhyasa implies being present, revisiting our intentions without distraction, and continuously moving toward self-realisation.
How Does Tapas Relate to Abhyasa?
Tapas, meaning ‘to burn,’ is an essential aspect of Abhyasa. This concept embodies the discipline and endurance required to face life’s challenges, preventing us from falling into despair. The fire of Tapas helps to burn away our impurities, guiding us toward a state of yoga.
The Role of Svādhyāya in Practice
Svādhyāya, or self-study, complements Abhyasa. Many individuals seek external validation or guidance to navigate their lives, often underestimating their own insights. Svādhyāya encourages us to tap into our innate gifts of intellect, insight, and intuition, leading us to discover our own truths.
Why is Consistency Important in Practice?
As noted in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (1:13), consistency is key. The practice must be continuous, allowing us to be present and engaged. The following Sutra (1:14) emphasises that long-term, sincere devotion to practice creates a strong foundation upon which we can stand.
What is Vairagya?
Vairagya, pronounced vai-raaahg-yah, refers to a state of non-attachment. It acknowledges how our consciousness can be coloured by attachments to people, places, and possessions. By letting go of these attachments, we gain clarity and develop a broader perspective on life.
How Does Vairagya Foster Detachment?
While Vairagya signifies detachment from worldly desires, it is closely related to the principle of Aparigraha, or greedlessness. By recognising what we can release from our lives, we enhance our ability to discern what truly matters. This gradual letting go prepares us for the deeper practice of Vairagya.
How Does Surrendering to Ishvara Pranidhana Enhance Our Journey?
Ishvara Pranidhana, or surrendering to a higher power, allows us to cultivate faith and trust in the universe. It encourages us to let go of our need for control and embrace the journey with an open heart. By dedicating our actions to this universal force, we align ourselves with our true purpose.
The Harmonious Balance of Abhyasa and Vairagya
In essence, Abhyasa and Vairagya serve as the two wings of our inner bird, enabling us to soar toward self-realisation. By practicing diligently and letting go of attachments, we can transcend the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary aspects of life. As we cultivate these two principles, we move closer to experiencing the true essence of yoga.
Pose of the month
Pose – Bird of paradise
Sanskrit – svarga dvijasana स्वर्ग द्विजासन
Pronounced – S vah-r-gah Dvee-jah-sah-nah
Type – Balance
Named after the flower bird of paradise because of how it stands horizontally this pose teaches us the persistence a flower has in order to bloom. This pose challenges the ego, so how much can we let go of the need for it to look/be a certain way, and trust that our individual expression is as perfect as a flower at every stage of its evolution.
Don’t worry!!
In Jivamukti the class is structured so that the body is prepared; stretched, strengthened and opened by visiting the requisite shape and effort in preparatory postures so that our destination posture each month begins to feel more and more accessible over the 4/5 weeks of practice.
Book your first discounted class now! Use the code AUM
Mantra of the month
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali 1:12
Practice & non-attachment is the process of mental mastery
अभ्यासवैराग्याअभ्यां तन्निरोध
abhyāsa-vairāgya-ābhyāṁ tan-nirodhaḥ
Known as the two essential steps toward positive change and also recognised as Shiva and Shakti the divine couple, the two inseparable parts of divine consciousness. In our yoga practice we must endeavour to cultivate an equal measure of these two elements in order to maintain the essence of flying on the inside.
