Yoga in Practice - Seeds of Happiness

Within the practice of Yoga are the keys to happiness. Daily life is filled with what we think about. If we imagine a difficult day filled with problems, challenges, and obstacles, we will find what we seek. We are not in complete control of the universe, but our frame of mind has much to do with our happiness, and even more to do with the outcome of daily situations.

Consider this: What we perceive as problems, challenges, and obstacles, are life's lessons - if we are willing to listen. We may find ourselves "thrown into" an unexpected situation, which challenges our ability to be happy.

So, how do we handle an inherent fear of the unknown? Fear of the unknown is a basic fear, which all people have, to some degree, and it is justified. We learn to fear those things that can harm us as children, and the unknown can sometimes cause us harm. We would be foolish to ignore fire once our fingers are burned.

The key to happiness, when facing problems, challenges, and obstacles, is to see the lesson. Of course, you want to find a solution, but you should enjoy the journey as a student of life. Sometimes, life's lessons are too much for one person to handle alone.

This is why we have friendships, families, partnerships, and marriages. When a group of people band together, with the common goal to solve a problem, then a solution will be found. This practice is a concerted group effort to solve something, which we perceive as an obstacle.

Yoga has taught us to do much more than wishful thinking. When a large group of people band together, meditate, and discuss solutions, positive action will be a result of this effort. A large group may have difficulty working together in harmony. Smaller groups, or individuals, will have their own perception of an important agenda.

As an example of this, which of these issues do you think is more important: global warming, social injustice, world peace, good medical care for all, ending poverty, or putting food on the table? Chances are, someone right next to you, sees one of these issues, or one that I have not mentioned, more importantly than you do.

So, successful outcomes to finding solutions depend upon a state of mutual happiness and respect within a group. The concept of collective thought has always had people who object to it. Yet, a lone wolf may not survive, where a wolf pack can flourish.

Establish happy relationships, meditate upon happy thoughts, pray, and work in harmony with others. Your reward will be a successful and happy life.

© 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