Monday, June 16, 2014

The Purpose of Yoga - A Formula for Santosha (Contentment)

So, how can we "bottle" Santosha? Contentment seems to slip through our fingers, and we cannot hold onto it for long. Is there a formula for being happy?

One method is to wake up every day and give thanks for what you have. Everyone has something to be grateful for. You can focus on it first thing in the morning, and thank God for what you do have. You can also thank yourself for the accomplishments you have made.

Releasing anger works for many people, but you have to be careful how you do it. Obviously, "telling everyone off," will reduce your number of friends, but anger is a natural emotion, even if it is not justified.

You could write everything down, which makes you angry. All of your bad feelings could go onto a piece of paper. Sleep on it, and after you have come to grips with it, you can burn it or shred it. Now, you can calmly and rationally deal with the issue or speak to the person, who has caused your rage.

Some people privately roll their car windows up and scream at the top of their lungs, on the way to work, or on the way home. A friend of mine swore his blood pressure would drop, as a result of this method. Regardless, pent up hostility should be released safely, privately, and carefully. The car should never be used as a tool for road rage.

To forgive others will release a tremendous burden from you. Holding in anger is much like walking around, "with the weight of the world, on your shoulders." You can forgive others for your own health, and you will find Santosha.

© 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

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