144. Ālasya, I don't want to get up!
In Yoga Sutra 1:30, Patanjali describes nine obstacles, known as antarāya (अन्तरायाः), that prevent the mind from reaching a state of concentration and ultimately residing in its true nature, or svarūpa (स्वरूप). These obstacles create mental disturbances and hinder us from progressing on our spiritual path. As Patanjali reminds us, yoga aims to overcome these obstacles to experience clarity and stillness in the mind, allowing us to connect with our innermost self.
One key aspect of this antarāya is the influence of tamas (तमस), the guṇa (गुण) or quality that represents darkness, inertia, and heaviness. Tamas is involved in all the obstacles because they pull us downward, making it harder for us to act clearly or enthusiastically. That sluggish, lethargic energy makes it difficult to get out of bed on a cold, dark winter morning when the weight of inertia feels almost insurmountable. Tamas keeps us physically and mentally stuck, and in the context of the antarāya, it prevents us from moving forward in our practice.
Today, we focus specifically on one of the obstacles, ālasyā (आलस्य), which is physical sluggishness or laziness. Ālasya is a direct manifestation of tamas at the bodily level. In ancient Hindu texts, the term ālaya (आलय) was used to refer to the lethargy that often follows overeating—a physical heaviness that makes it difficult to move or engage in meaningful action. This reminds us to be mindful of our consumption, both in terms of food and energy. A diet that is excessive or tāmasic (तामसिक), filled with heavy, processed, or overindulgent foods, can lead to physical and mental lethargy. This is why it’s essential to follow a sāttvic (सात्त्विक) diet, which promotes clarity, lightness, and energy, allowing us to move with ease and maintain our practice.
To counteract ālasyā, we need to increase our tapas (तपस्), or discipline. Tapas is the heat that purifies the body and mind, helping us overcome obstacles like inertia and laziness. It is through discipline that we ignite our inner fire, motivating us to take action even when it feels difficult. One practical way to combat ālasyā is by incorporating regular movement into our routine. Whether through yoga asana, walking, or any form of exercise, movement helps lift the heaviness of tamas and brings fresh energy to the body and mind.
The key, however, is always to remember that it’s okay to start again. Sometimes, we fall into habits of laziness or inertia, but the most important thing is to recognize it and begin anew. Every moment offers an opportunity to recommit to our practice, rise above tamas, and restore our focus and energy. In this way, overcoming ālasyā becomes a journey of resilience and persistence.
Finally, we should never underestimate the power of sangha (सङ्घ), or community, in helping us overcome obstacles like ālasyā. When we feel stuck or sluggish, the support of a community can provide the motivation and encouragement we need to keep going. Whether it’s practicing with others or simply staying connected, the shared energy of a group can uplift us and remind us of our greater purpose. Sangha becomes a crucial ally in fighting tamas and supporting us on the path of yoga.
