045. Sincerity and reverence.

Patanjali codified the Yoga Sutras into 196 point form notes known as sutras. These sutras form a comprehensive guide to understanding and overcoming the architecture of the mind-stuff, which is often the root of our unhappiness. This mind-stuff is characterized by fluctuations called citta vrittis.

In this episode, Jeff recaps the 12th, 13th, and 14th sutras. Patanjali has a systematic approach: he introduces a term and then defines it. This clarity helps us understand the concepts better and apply them in our lives.

At the yoga school, we have what I call the "weekend warriors," who only practice on the weekends. According to Patanjali, this sporadic approach doesn't qualify as true practice. Consistent and earnest practice is essential to making progress.

We consider the Sanskrit word "satkara" from the 14th sutra, which means reverence or earnestness. We discuss how this concept is vital in both practice and life. Satkara emphasizes the importance of approaching our practice with a sincere and dedicated attitude, which is crucial for achieving the steadiness and clarity of mind that Patanjali describes.