After writing last week’s blog post, my mind continues to return to the concept of not knowing how my path is laid out ahead of me. This led to me thinking about the ways that I’m trying to control my life — which, especially during a pandemic, can be problematic.
In Yoga Philosophy there are 8 Limbs of Yoga. One of those limbs has a sub-branch called Aparigraha, which means non-hoarding, non-grasping, non-possessiveness. This seems to be a good section for me to focus on at the moment — for isn’t trying to control something in complete contradiction to this principle?
As I explore Aparigraha a little more in depth, I can now inspect the areas in my life that I’m grabbing on to something. Where are the places that I’m holding on? Why am I holding on to them? When is the right time to let go? Is it now?
There are some obvious examples of ways I can apply the non-hoarding principles of Aparigraha, such as getting rid of the clutter around my house. You should see my desk. It’s a hot mess, and I’m the only person who would be able to find anything there. I can also let go of the attachment to the way my previous yoga practice was. Until I can have the surgery needed to fix my wrist, my days of party-trick poses are paused.
This week’s decision to hold off on opening up the brick and mortar wellness center I’ve dreamed about for years has been another exercise in Aparigraha. I’m remembering that I can’t see the road ahead and have no idea what my future looks like. And that’s okay.
What are some things that you’re holding on to? Maybe it’s a relationship that needs to end. Possibly your garage is filled with items that you can part with. Or maybe it’s time to explore any things that you’re angry about so you can release those feelings once and for all. There are lots of ways we can let go, just remember to be kind to yourself in the process. Change often isn’t easy, and as the saying goes, old habits die hard. As we move through life to be the best versions of ourselves, it’s important to give yourself some grace as you let go of things that no longer serve you.