The Yamas – things to practice – nonviolence and truthfulness, all to be practiced in body, mind, and soul. In today’s world, it is easy to get misled by what is true. The news, for example, is full of bias and opinions, making it hard to discern between what is truth and what is not. That is why yoga teaches us that truthfulness begins within each of us and is to be practiced on three levels.
Truthfulness begins with the intellect. It prompts us to ask: What is the truth?
If you can quiet your mind, you will be able to discover the answer to this question. What you choose determines the truth of who you are. For example, you have the choice to be kind or to be unkind. If you choose to be unkind, you become unkind; if you choose to be kind, you become kind. You have the power to choose the truth you wish to live through your thoughts, words, and deeds. Take some time to intellectually look deep within, be honest with yourself, find your truth, and then choose wisely.
Next, we need to practice being truthful in our words. Sometimes a very difficult task! Yoga reminds us to speak the truth, but adds the caveat that it is good to speak the truth, but better to speak that which benefits others. Often, we are compelled to speak the truth without regard for how it might hurt others. Words that hurt create violence, so when speaking the truth, nonviolence (nonharm) should always be observed. Always seek to do the greatest good for the greatest number. In terms of verbal truthfulness, it is also important to try to keep your word. If you make a promise, attempt to keep it, but be aware that there may be times when you cannot. Just remember not to make false promises with no intention of keeping them.
Here is a story: A yogi sat in the woods, meditating. A beautiful deer ran by. The yogi smiled at the grace and power of the animal. Shortly thereafter, a hunter came by and asked the yogi if he had seen the deer.
If the yogi tells the truth, the hunter will kill the deer - violence. On the other hand, if he does not tell the hunter the truth, he will violate the practice of verbal truthfulness. What should he do? It is late in the season, and if he does not tell the truth, the hunter and his family will starve; if he tells the truth, the deer will be killed. What should he do?
The third practice is Physical truthfulness: your outward acts and deeds reflect the truth you live. Consciously practicing physical truthfulness is akin to doing good deeds. This uplifts the soul and makes it easier to travel the soulful path of life. Just remember, as you think, say, and do, you become, and in this, you will become aware of the truth within. Let’s get started
END
Whatever situation you encounter in life, remember that the truth is practiced through your thoughts, words, and deeds. Sometimes it is hard to find truth in a competitive and chaotic world. Yoga reminds us that truth is found within. You become what you think, say, and do. Look to your intentions and how your truth relates to all of life, and then seek to do no harm; always choosing the greatest good for the greatest number. What is the truth? You are the truth; it lives within you. Choose wisely and live it.
EGO
Flip up your palm and extend out your index finger. Let’s take a moment and connect with the ego. Sometimes the ego can push us into saying things and reacting in ways that can hurt others. A moment of reflection will help you to realize that if you pull the ego back (Your index finger) and place your thumb on top (the symbol of your soul), take a breath, and surrender to the soul, your higher power will remind you that the truth is found within, so live truthfully in your thoughts, words, and deeds.
Namaste ~ may you walk the path of life with health, happiness, and peace.
Doctor Lynn
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