The third Niyama is TAPAS: Self-discipline, heat. “TAPAS literally means ‘heat’, and can be translated as catharsis, austerities, self-discipline, spiritual effort, change, tolerance or transformation. Practicing TAPAS eventually turns us into a cauldron that can withstand any of life’s challenges. It’s this ‘cooking’ ourselves in the fire of discipline that will transform us. It is our determined effort to become someone of character and strength, so that we can withstand any of life’s challenges. Making day-to-day choices to burn non-supportive habits of the body and mind, choosing future benefits over momentary pleasures. A little shift can go a long way, small changes can create positive effects and course changes.” Deborah Adele. Think of Kaizen!
Frances Patella (2004) CBC Reporter II
This is like a controlled burn in High Park: they manage the perimeters of areas that need to be reborn, burn down what’s encroaching, and within a few weeks, we see new growth of indigenous plants . . . amazing!
There is a bumper sticker that states ‘A crisis is a terrible thing to waste’. There is great truth to this! It is in this barren place, where we have exhausted all that we have and want, that new strength is shaped, and courage is born, as we fearlessly open ourselves up to the experience.
From St. Francis of Assisi . . .
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace
Where there is hatred, let me sow love
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith
Where there is darkness, light
Where there is despair, hope
Where there is sadness, joy
Self study and enquiry into spiritual study helps us to embrace the layers of our being: next up, Svadhyaya!
SOURCES: ‘Get to Know the Eight Limbs of Yoga’, article in Yoga Journal 2007, Mara Carrico ‘The Yamas and Niyamas: Exploring Yoga’s Ethical Practice’, Deborah Adele, 2009 deborahadele.com/ ‘Ten Ways to Heal Your Life’, article from Yoga Conference, 2013, Randal Williams
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