054. Jeff’s little yoga rant

In today's episode, Jeff shares his thoughts on appropriating information from ancient texts and the journey that led him from practicing the "Ashtanga" yoga of Pattabhi Jois to delving deeply into the study of Patanjali's Ashtanga yoga.

Guided by his esteemed teachers, Jayashree and Narashimha, Jeff's transition highlights yoga's rich and multifaceted nature as it is traditionally understood and practiced.

Jeff vividly recalls his experiences in India, where the study of yoga was often intertwined with meditation, a concept that resonated deeply with his local Indian friends. This starkly contrasts with the Western view of yoga, which has largely been commercialized into a form of alternative fitness. This cultural disparity underscores the importance of looking beyond physical postures to truly grasp the essence of yoga.

Emphasizing this point, Jeff passionately argues that yoga cannot be reduced merely to a series of physical postures. While postures are essential to the practice, they are just one component of a broader and more profound spiritual and philosophical tradition. This episode is a rant, as Jeff expresses his annoyance with the superficial understanding of yoga that prevails in many parts of the world today.

Like his grandfather, the preacher, Jeff leaves us with a reassuring message. He reminds us that regardless of our level of practice, every step we take brings us closer to the heart of yoga. His words are a beacon of encouragement, affirming that every moment we dedicate to our practice and study is not only valuable but also deeply meaningful.

Thank you for joining us on My Daily Thread. Stay tuned for more insights and reflections as we explore the rich tapestry of yoga and its teachings.