More About Tapas - The Third Niyama

Tapas is more than penance. In the military, one earns his or her stripes to attain higher rank. You cannot afford to have a General inherit a position. A command position must be earned, and battle tested, for the safety of all the troops.

Life's daily challenges are a form of Tapas. You can easily make a case that Tapas builds character. Yet, with all of our recorded history, parents and society can learn from this.

If you simply give everything away to children, and the poor, you have taught them nothing. How will they provide for themselves, once they have consumed your donations and gifts? Children, and the poor, must be taught valuable life skills and independence. Otherwise, they are handicapped by "give away" policies - much like animals at a park, waiting for "handouts."

Many young parents, in the West, feel that "Spare the rod, and spoil the child," is an old saying, which does not apply to this time period. The original quote came from Proverbs 13:24, which states, "He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes."

Children, and the poor, will respect nothing, if they do not have to earn it. It is easily proven by the lack of appreciation, manners, and respect, we can observe everyday. Discipline in moderation, will enrich all aspects of society.

Getting back to you and the value of Tapas - The true value of Tapas is the character building qualities of emotional, mental, and spiritual health. With those three aspects taken care of, we have better physical health. The habit of daily Tapas will carry over in your physical life by eating and exercising conscientiously.

© 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