Greetings Sadhakas,
This week in class
we are exploring the fifth limb of Yoga Pratyahara – the withdrawal and
emancipation from the senses.
For the outer
sense alone perceives visible things, and the eye of the heart alone sees the
invisible.
-
Richard of Saint-Victor
The senses - the
eyes, ears, touch, and taste - are wonderful instruments for observing the
outer world. But these instruments function at their best when they are
trained. If they clamor for what is damaging to our health, it is not their
fault. It is ours, because we haven't sent them to school.
"Why do you
want to eat that?" we ask the palate in exasperation. "You know it's
going to add to the pounds."
"I can't help
it," the palate replies. "You never trained me."
It may take a long
period of education, but the senses can be trained. Then, the palate might
clamor briefly for the chocolate mousse, but a friendly "Careful!"
brings it back to the fresh strawberries.
Words to Live By:
Inspiration for Every Day – Eknath Easwaran
The homework is to consider the fifth limb
of Yoga Pratyahara – the withdrawal and emancipation from the senses. Select a
day (or an hour!) to study your sensual experiences. Note which experiences
bring up feelings of attachment – “I want more!” and, note which bring feelings
of aversion – “Never again!” Consider what actions follow those sensual
experiences. Are your actions based on an intellectual decision that you’ve
made? Or are your actions based on the unconscious drive for more or less of
the sensual experience?
Blessings,
paul cheek
Rushing Water Yoga
360.834.5994
www.rushingwateryoga.com
Serving Yoga to Camas, Washougal, and Vancouver Washington
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