Discipline is the traditional definition of Tapas, the third Niyama. It is derived from the root Sanskrit verb “tap” which means “to burn”. Like all things translated from ancient texts, there are many interpretations. This Niyama always makes me think about Desikachar’s discussion about “agni” (fire in Sanskrit) burning away old behaviors. While discussing pranayama (yoga breathing disciplines), he talks about our inner agni burning all the internal rubbish. To me this rubbish represents negative things in my life that I create or can control. We all have unhealthy practices or habitual behaviors that we come back to no matter our best intentions. I envision the practice of Tapas channeling our internal heat helping us to burn some of these away, this of course also takes discipline. How often do we find ourselves, despite our best intentions, slipping into old behaviors or habits and then berating ourselves for doing so? Rather than expending that negative energy, would it not make more sense to cut ourselves some slack, take the proverbial “reset” (channeling that first Niyama, Saucha, cleansing), climb back onto the proverbial horse of good intentions, and try again? Our heat can be generated by firing up our best positive efforts to adopt real change, taking baby steps and cutting ourselves some slack when we slip back.
When things for me get crazy or there is heightened drama (usually around family issues), I often find myself getting agitated and “heated”, raising my voice, saying unproductive things and generally not being my best self. A few years ago, to channel good karma in stressful driving situations, I started trying to channel a calmer approach: blessing people rather than returning the middle finger mudra (and not in Warrior 2). As I tried to develop this new, at least outwardly calmer self, I followed this practice when someone yelled at me for having my dog off lead. After I profusely apologized, the yeller continued to berate me nonsensically. I then told him in my softest and calmest voice (while seething on the inside), that clearly his disproportionate response meant that he had other issues going on in his life and that I would pray for him. He was apoplectic but could find no words; I felt good about not sinking to his level and, admittedly, found humor in the whole exchange that normally would have rattled me. As I continue to work on this approach, often faking it until I make it, I am more challenged by familial situations. Situations involving relationships that we care about (rather than random strangers) are often much harder to approach with this discipline of calm. I am constantly trying to break my bad habit of reacting before breathing and behaving irrationally when upset. Admittedly, it is a work in process, but progress is being made!
Whatever we need to focus discipline around we should remember that, like all things yogic, it is a practice, not a perfect. Waking each day to our new best self, practicing a positive discipline around whatever we are trying to do better can be our goal in practicing Tapas.
For more on the topic follow link below:
Our Practice – Forearm (or other) Plank - Phalakasana
Given that boat pose is my go to core strengthening pose, I did consider invoking that for this week. However, another equally strong pose, also focusing on the core (or the belly where the internal agni, or fire is located), is plank. I had to look up the Sanskrit name for this one! Phalakasana translates as “board” and is pronounced “fal-ack-AHS-ana”.
From sphinx, we will come onto our forearms with toes curled under. Press up (or peel your body off the ground) on an exhale.
Press back strongly through the heals, activating your posterior chain (especially the back of your legs).
Engage your core fully, pressing your navel back towards your spine and draw shoulder blades away from each other.
If you start to feel any pain or discomfort in your back, come down to knees or child’s pose and rest/breath before resuming.
This pose can also be done in a knees down version.
Physical benefits of forearm plank include core and leg strengthening and toning. The spine also benefits.
Meditating on Discipline - Tapas
When we focus on Tapas specifically in relation to our yoga practice, it can simply remind us to have discipline around regular practice, even 5-10 minutes a day. Keep in mind that moving our body in a way that encourages the yoking of the breath, body and mind is yoga!
“A worthy aim makes life illumined, pure and divine. Without such an aim, action and prayer have no value. Life without tapas is like a heart without love”. – BKS Iyengar
“A disciplined mind leads to happiness, and an undisciplined mind leads to suffering” – Dalai Lama
Below find a link to a video with a few moments from an aarti that I attended on the Ganga River in Rishikesh, India. A beautiful ritual that uses fire as an offering. We lit small dishes with flowers and a candle that floats down the river. For more on aarti, see second link below.
For more on the aarti see article below:
Nurturing With Food – Fire Cider
I have spoken before about the benefits of fire cider. Variations of the concoction are used by many as a simple and effective remedy to relieve sinus congestion, ward off colds and flus, aid digestion, and increase circulation. It can be sipped, taken as a tonic, mixed with other beverages, or used in cooking. My preferred method is a shot glass full every morning followed by water. Many people find mixing it with hot water, lemon and honey and making a beverage out of it is an easier way to take it. I do not like the taste that much, especially in the morning and I find the benefits for me are best on an empty stomach (and I take it in quick and get it done!
Link to my recipe:
There are many recipes out there, but I suggest that you don’t overthink it and stick to the basics. Adjust to taste and the curative benefits of specific ingredients. I do not measure anything.
See you on the mat!
Namaste,
Julia Anne
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