046. Attend to your practice.

As we continue our transformative journey with our podcast? Please help us out by subscribing, befriending, and sharing. You have become an integral part of our community, reframing life for the better. We've been delving into Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, and our latest focus is on the profound concepts of practice and non-attachment. Let's start by defining these terms together.

Jeff's example brings to light a common tendency in our language use. We often throw around the term 'love' without fully grasping its depth and significance. This casual usage stands in stark contrast to Patanjali's approach. He not only introduces a word but also provides a clear, precise definition. Take, for instance, the term 'love' as defined by St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 13:4. It's a word that's often used superficially, but when examined closely, it reveals a much deeper, richer meaning.

In our study of the Yoga Sutras, we have come across the concept of "abhyasa," which translates to "practice." According to Patanjali, actual practice is sustained over a long period, uninterrupted, and approached with reverence. This is not a casual or sporadic effort but a dedicated, ongoing commitment. The Sanskrit word "asevito," meaning "well attended to," further refines our understanding of practice. For practice to be effective, it must be given the necessary attention and care, much like tending to a garden.

The idea of non-attachment, or "vairagya," complements the concept of practice. Non-attachment involves letting go of desires and distractions hindering one's progress. It is about cultivating an inner state of detachment from the outcomes of our actions and maintaining equanimity regardless of success or failure.

In tomorrow's episode, we will delve deeper into these concepts with a story from Satchidananda's book. This story will help illustrate the practical application of abhyasa and vairagya, providing a tangible example of how these principles can be integrated into daily life to achieve a more balanced and fulfilling existence.

By exploring these concepts, we aim to offer a reframing of life that emphasizes the importance of consistent practice and the cultivation of non-attachment. By subscribing to this approach and befriending these ideas, we can share in a journey toward a better, more mindful way of living.