Working with me
Some people will dabble in several paths and some will deeply understand one or two paths. There is no “right” way to reach the destination. The real magic is in the relentless pursuit of your growth and in the honest experience of a whole life. I find that the easiest way to determine where to start (which path to explore) is by determining what part of life is causing the greatest suffering. The eight paths (called limbs or areas of focus) are:
External Discipline (Yamas)
This limb is about how you treat others. Be truthful and kind to other people, don’t overindulge in vices, let go of what is holding you back. Be forgiving.
Internal Discipline (Niyamas)
This limb is about how you treat yourself. Take good care of your physical health. Stay up on your selfcare. Speak, behave and take time to rest and reflect. Be good to you!
postures that make your body comfortable freeing your mind and, making space for thought, mindfulness and meditation.
Pay attention to your breath. Work to cultivate a deep expansive inhale and long soothing exhale.
Know yourself. Look inward for what you need. Minimize the impact of the external world on your body and mind.
Concentration and introspective focus, practice focusing on one thing of your choosing without allowing your mind to wander or jump around.
Reflection without Judgment (Dhyana)
practice contemplation of anything your life, what you see or hear… your plan for life or your past, without judging or building expectations.
Flow (Samadhi)
Feel a sense of flow or connection to your creator, your goals, your job or focus. Feel the power of focus, purpose and abundance.
As you scanned this list I bet there was one or two that hit home. If not do worry I have worked with a variety of people and I have a system that has worked well for me and for the people I work with.
Phase 1 – being strong enough, healthy enough and physically comfortable enough to accomplish your goals is the starting point. If you have physical pain or discomfort or are unwell it is very difficult to focus on other things. (Niyamas, Asana, Pranayama)
Phase 2 – A natural next step after taking care of the above is that the ability to maintain be good to others, be disciplined and to look inward and know yourself. (Yamas and Pratyahara)
Phase 3 – As a result many find that deep thought comes easy and that as discovery and learning continues judgments and expectations fall away. (Dharana and Dhyana)
Phase 4 – Discovering and living your purpose wholly and without holding back. Experiencing the joy and fulfillment and connection to your creator that we all desire. (Samadhi)
Phase 5 – Maintain your body and mind to encourage optimal functioning for the span of your life.