205. Coffee habit stacking?

Kriyā Yoga is yoga in the active life—a practice that integrates discipline, effort, and surrender into daily living. One way to cultivate this is through Eka Tattva Abhyāsa, a one-pointed practice that helps establish consistency. Just as Patañjali’s Kriyā Yoga encourages steady, intentional effort, this method allows us to build momentum in our personal practice.

A key element of this process is tapas. The Sanskrit root "tap" means "to create heat or energy"—a necessary force for transformation. But how does this actually work in our daily lives?

Jeff shares personal examples of how tapas has shaped his habits. The challenge is not just about discipline but about finding ways to integrate new, consistent actions into everyday life. For instance, there is a difference between having the habit of working out versus maintaining a structured Aṣṭāṅga yoga practice. While both require effort, one is more intentional and systematized, requiring sustained focus over time.

One effective method for cultivating tapas is habit stacking, a concept discussed by Rangan Chatterjee on the Rich Roll podcast. Habit stacking involves linking new behaviors to existing habits, making it easier to integrate them seamlessly. Jeff applies this by connecting simple yet meaningful actions—drinking more water and working out—with an established daily ritual: his morning coffee. By attaching new habits to something already ingrained, the practice becomes more sustainable and natural.

This approach aligns with the philosophy of tapas—small, consistent efforts generating the internal heat needed for transformation. It’s not about force or struggle but about making meaningful changes in a way that is both structured and sustainable.