Yoga in Practice - Hidden Opportunities to Learn

Jnana Yoga does not have to exist within the study of scripture only. We can also learn useful lessons by observing the actions of others. Have you ever noticed that those people who tend to cause new rules to be instituted, never stay in one place very long?

They "wear out their welcome" fast. They may go through a number of jobs, creating new rules for everyone else, they leave behind. These are the "rule breakers" of life. In Yoga studios, on the job, or out in traffic, they set precedents everywhere they go.

Rule breakers tend to be self-serving and negative about life in general. Everyone owes them something, life is never fair to them, and their surrounding environment is to blame for all the wrongs life has done to them. Their family, job, society, and friends are at fault for "their lot in life."

Believe it or not, you can learn a lot by watching a rule breaker in practice. My grandfather used to say, "Even the court jester can teach you something." It is very true in this case, as well.

For a start, we can learn how not to act, but there is much more. How are this person's listening skills? Chances are - this person does not listen to others. In fact, part of making lasting friendships, partnerships, and relationships, is to listen to others empathically.

Does this person take responsibility for his or her actions? Usually, this person feels they are smarter than everyone else, but a victim of circumstance when schemes do not have the desired result.

The irony is - a rule breaker will never be navigated by reality, unless he or she makes a big change in attitude. Therefore, always be guided by common sense and ethics.

© Copyright 2007 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. riyoga.com riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html