Exploring Tapas

By Jennie Lee • June 18th, 2012 • 4921 Views

On a daily basis, doing whatever you are doing, do you feel restless, bored, lazy or unambitious?

Or do you feel inspired, charged with energy, excited to give something of yourself to the world?

If you answered yes to the first question ponder these to get your inner flame ignited:

What invigorates you?

What do you keep coming back to when you think about what you want to do? 

What makes you want to go the extra mile?  

What are you really good at and how could that help others?

The sparks of enthusiasm that live within us are what will eventually lead us to our inner light - the purpose for which we are here. By bringing passion, diligence, enthusiasm and devotion to each day, we explore new edges of personal growth and learning. And this reveals the fullness of our unique soul purpose. Knowing our purpose gives us a guide by which to determine the validity of our choices – how and where we expend effort and will on a daily basis. It gives us a focal point and a charge to action, and a meter for when we stray from what is important. In order to be fully alive, we must be on fire with purpose, and use our will to move forward with undaunted determination toward our goals.

By far the greatest use of our will is to cultivate deeper and deeper faith that our purpose can be fulfilled.  Eradication of doubt is the difference between a master and a novice.  When our enthusiasm is high, its energy naturally generates the flame of effort toward our goals. But in times of doubt, the discipline of dedicated tapas practice is necessary in order for the inner light to shine through the darkness.

If we do our work; if we say a wholehearted yes to life even when it is difficult; if we use our willpower to overcome obstacles and negative habits, we will be rewarded with a vibrant life. Here’s to triple points for zeal.

* sutra translation in Secret Power of Yoga,  by Nischala Joy Devi

Note: This article is 7^th of a 10 part series on the Yamas and Niyamas: the instructions in the Yoga Sutras for qualities and behaviors we should develop to be in harmony with natural and spiritual laws, liberate ourselves from limitations and open our consciousness to a more expansive state.       

Exploring Satya: Living...

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Location:  Kailua, US

Jennie Lee is a Yoga Therapist and international retreat leader with over 6,000 teaching hours and 17 years of experience in Yoga philosophy, practice and meditation. An active member of the International Association of Yoga Therapists,...