Detachment, an unselfish reality!

Practical yoga applications to help you fulfil your true potential.

We generally have little control over our emotions which tend to rule our actions and shape our personalities. Since the beginning of my yoga journey Ive noted consciously doing some involuntary actions less. I have been able to observe the cause of my negative emotions, whether they be anger, frustration or sadness. With this awareness they have become easily manageable as I can communicate positive reactions to circumstances through communication with my own self.

Detachment can be likened to an invisible force field around oneself, a protective spiritual barrier. It may be recognized by others as being aloof or uninterested but only because there are other processes at work which cannot be seen or understood by anyone but you. *

Also noteworthy is that once we detach from subtle feelings and emotions we can begin to work on any addictions which may hinder ones progress. From coffee and smoking to depression and drugs, addictions are linked to a constant need to increase or decrease ones feelings and emotions. Another reason why yoga is so beneficial as a rehabilitative therapy.

I often use the terms let go and withdraw from the senses when Im teaching a yoga class or explaining how to meditate. But there is another word which, if not understood, could certainly be labelled as selfish, and that is detachment. Detachment not only from subtle influences like emotions but also from objects or even people around us.

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For people that are overly emotional and let their hearts rule their decisions becoming more aware of being able to detach your feelings and emotions from your actions may be an impossible accomplishment. But with understanding could definitely be used as a helpful tool for positive action and direction in your life, not to mention inner healing and peace.

I find myself thinking a lot more before acting impulsively and therefore a lot less guilty as a result. It has brought me to a place where I feel in control of the relationship I have with my mind and body and a truthful and honest expression of my life which allows me to love and share with others.

Here are just a few practical examples yoga can help you achieve detachment:

1. Clear the mind of any thoughts that do not serve you during your yoga practice with the intention of being in a constant meditative state.

2. When doing an intense or restricting pose remind yourself to relax internally so that your mind does not conjure feelings of claustrophobia, doubt or fear which can lead to a panic reaction, or feelings of disappointment or failure.

3. Do intense poses for an extended period of time and then allow yourself to relax in shavasana (lying on your back with arms and legs apart and palms facing upwards). Lying awake in this manner gives you time to analyze the mind, body and breathas you recover.

4. Remind yourself to relax every muscle in your face (remove all expression)and body especially the lips, jaw, neck and shoulders.

5. Keep reaffirming to yourself that you are capable of reaching the goals in your life and in yoga asanas (postures and poses) practice makes perfect.

6. Breathe! Find a soothing breathing rhythm that can become a natural adaptation to the involuntary breathing you do on a daily basis and be aware of that breath during the course each day. Use this as a subtle reminder to reaffirm your thoughts and actions.

7. Cultivate a love of self and enjoy time alone.

8. Be sure that what you are practicing as detachment is an honest process and not one of denial which can isolate you and do more damage than good.

9. Be honest with yourself and commit to a relationship with your true self.

* For more insight and understanding into the processes of the body whilst practicing yoga and during this change phase feel free to contact [email protected] or arrange to visit Anton and Pamela at Lake Side Hotel, Dal Lake. www.indipam.com Karma means action.

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