The Yogic Cycle: Embracing Balance, Week by Week

Embarking on the sacred path of life, each week manifests, an asana in the grand sequence of embodied life – an embodiment of balance between sun (ha) and moon (ṭha), dynamic and passive, Shiva and Shakti. This dichotomy, foundational to haṭha, invites us to reflect upon our lived experiences just as a seasoned yogi discerns the nuances in every pose, every transition. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, one of the seminal texts on the practice, asserts,

When there is steadiness of posture (asana), the disturbances caused by dualities cease to exist. (1.48)

Another verse from the same text deepens our understanding,

Just as the goldsmith removes the impurities of gold with the help of a furnace, the yogi burns his impurities in the fire of yoga. (2.28)

Bruce Lee's profound reflections on goals resonate with the very core of haṭha yoga and its sibling tradition, tantra. He elucidates,

"Goals give life substance. To actively strive towards a goal is to breathe purpose into one's existence."

Within this realm, the Matsyendrasamhita states,

"Yoga is said to be the oneness of breath, mind, and senses, and the abandonment of all states of existence."

How does your prana, your intrinsic life force, harmonize with the sankalpas, the intentions, you've set forth?

The Gheranda Samhita, another pivotal haṭha text, reminds us of the importance of disciplined practice or sadhana for purification. The Dattatreya Yoga Shastra furthers this, proclaiming,

"The mind should be united with the prana, just as a bird is with the sky."

Richard Freeman, a contemporary torchbearer of this ancient tradition, poetically captures the spirit of yoga:

"The study of asana is not about mastering posture. It’s about using posture to understand and transform yourself."

Haṭha yoga emphasizes dharma or purpose, likened to the drishti in a focused asana – an unwavering gaze that stabilizes both body and mind. As you navigate through life, or samsara, regular introspection ensures our endeavors align with the higher tenets of haṭha and tantra. Rod Stryker eloquently reminds us,

"Yoga’s purpose is not to help us escape reality but to experience and act within the world with clear vision, a steady heart, and skillful means."

Reflect upon the past week, as if reviewing a yoga sequence: Did your actions mirror the harmonious melding of ha and ṭha? The Rudra Yamala Tantra opines that true self-awareness arises from deep contemplation. Channeling the wisdom of Rumi, but with the weight of yogic teachings:

“Do not remain bound by the familiar sequences of yesterday. Forge your unique flow, allowing each asana, each moment, to be a testament to your inner journey."

As the practices of the bygone week culminate, a new week, brimming with untapped asanas and meditations, beckons. With reverence to the foundational texts and traditions, step onto your mat, breathe with intent, and let your spiritual exploration continue. Namaste.