053. Colourless …
Welcome to the My Daily Thread Podcast, where each episode provides a snippet of wisdom from renowned Yoga and Meditation Masters. Our recent focus has been on the teachings of Patanjali and the Yoga Sutras, which offer profound insights into the nature of the mind and how to attain inner peace and stability.
In previous episodes, we have explored the concept of gaining control over the mind's fluctuations, known in Sanskrit as Citta Vrittis. These fluctuations are constantly modified thoughts, emotions, and sensory inputs.
Patanjali teaches that the key to managing these mental activities lies in two fundamental practices: Abhyasa (Practice) and Vairagya (Non-attachment).
Abhyasa refers to any effort or activity that leads the mind toward steadiness and tranquillity. This can include a wide range of practices such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga postures, breathing exercises, and even everyday actions performed with awareness and intention. The idea is that consistent practice cultivates mental clarity and focus, helping us maintain equilibrium amidst life's challenges.
On the other hand, Vairagya involves cultivating non-attachment. Vairagya does not mean indifference or disengagement from life but rather a balanced approach in which we do not become overly attached to outcomes, desires, or possessions. Understanding what it truly means to be non-attached is crucial for achieving mental serenity.
In his commentary on the Yoga Sutras, Swami Satchidananda provides a valuable interpretation of Vairagya. He breaks down the word into its components: "vi," meaning without, and "raga," meaning colour. This metaphor suggests that our minds are like a canvas, and we are constantly adding colour to them based on our sensory experiences and emotional reactions.
Satchidananda's insight encourages us to observe the colours we add to our perception of the world. Are we painting our experiences with hues of fear, anger, and attachment, or are we choosing shades of peace, contentment, and detachment? By becoming aware of these mental colourings, we can practice non-attachment, allowing us to experience life more fully and authentically without being clouded by our biases and preconceptions.
As we continue our journey through the teachings of Patanjali and the Yoga Sutras, we invite you to reflect on the question: "What colour are you adding to your world today?" This question reminds us to stay mindful of how we interpret and react to our experiences, aiming to cultivate a more balanced and serene mind.
Join us in the next episode as we delve deeper into these transformative practices and insights.
