NINE OBSTACLES THAT IMPEDE OUR KARMIC WORK

Karma yoga teaches us that if we want to prosper, we must overcome the nine obstacles that impede our progress. Each obstacle must be examined and then counterbalanced or worked through by developing the nine characteristics or qualities that allow us to overcome it. Pay attention to the moment of ego awareness at the end of each obstacle. First, we need to identify the nine obstacles. The First Obstacle—Ill Health You probably didn’t get up this morning and think about how grateful you are for good health and the ability to navigate your life easily. That’s because we take good health for granted until we lose it. Yoga teaches us that the first thing we should do daily is maintain good health; everything else is meaningless without it. Pay attention to the three pillars of health daily: diet, exercise, and sleep. These are the foundations for keeping the body and the mind healthy. Attitude and gratitude for the wonderful things the body can do should be our focus so that we stay healthy and fit. Remember, the soul is here to do its earthly work and needs a healthy body and mind to do the job. END: Consciously do what you can to prevent illness rather than take your health for granted. Karma yoga is about being consciously aware of everything you think, say, and do and act in a way that creates the greatest good. Nothing in this world could be better than a healthy body and mind assisting the soul in completing its Earthly mission: being aware of and then overcoming life's obstacles from a peaceful, healthy perspective. EGO: flip your hands up and rest them on your knees. Extend out the index finger—the symbol of the ego. The ego fights for your survival. It strives to maintain its strength but often confuses strength for power. In its power struggle to excel it often takes on stress and anxiety, leading to ill health. The ego fights to maintain its importance. Do not seek to extinguish the ego. It is for your self-preservation and self-identity. Seek to temper it by drawing your index finger in and placing your thumb on top, which symbolizes your soul. Take a breath and surrender to your soul. Remember that from the soul’s perspective, we are here on Earth to overcome life's obstacles. To overcome life’s obstacles, practice karma and focus on the three pillars of health: diet, exercise, and sleep. Practicing karma yoga, you will make great progress in your life. You will learn how to overcome life's many challenges and obstacles through continual practice. Overcome ill health by making healthy choices. Namaste~ may you walk the path of life with health, happiness, and peace Doctor Lynn For consultations, books, classes, and more http://www.doctorlynn.com