Yogic Wisdom For Modern Times

AUM (also known as “OM”) is the sound or essence of Creation. It is the beginning of all things. In this lesson we examine the letters A-U-M. We look at each sound within this sacred mantra. We study specific lessons and stories from the Bhagavad Gita and the Upanishads and find similarities between what is taught in these ancient texts and how these teachings can be applied to contemporary living.

Namaste is to bow, recognize, and honor the Divine within ourselves and others. We will look at the history and meaning of this word. We will discuss why such a turning inward to honor the essence of oneself and others is important. We will discuss how this gesture is enacted with the hands and heart. We will also look at similar words in various cultures and discover how all traditions possess a principal word with transcendent meanings.

In this lesson, we will discuss how living a meaningful life is the result of a daily practice. We will discuss the importance of discipline and action. Specifically, we will define what a daily, spiritual practice consists of, and how to create and maintain such a practice. We will look at religious and spiritual traditions for inspiration on this topic, as many accessible examples throughout history can be found.

This lesson will teach how to set a goal, so that we do not meander through life without direction. We will learn what it means to set an intention in all areas of life, including financial, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. We will learn about the value of progress rather than perfection when we follow a clear intention.

We will discuss what it is we are individually here on Earth to do. We will identify unique skill sets, so that we can fulfill our Divine purpose in the world. We will also learn that all sentient beings have a role to play which contributes to the rhythm of the cosmos. We will talk about individual and collective dharma.

Karma means action. We will discuss how our actions align with our purpose in life. We will talk about what we do with the gift of life which we have been given. We will look at how we live our lives when nobody is looking. We will discuss free will and the power of choice. We will talk about right action. We will also talk about Karma Yoga as the yoga of selfless action.

We will discuss the benefits of being other-centered, rather than self-centered. We will discuss the parameters and rewards of being of service. We will talk about humility, humanity, and honesty. We will also discuss how service is exemplified through specific intentions, individual purpose, and acting in alignment with a collective purpose.

In this lesson, we will discuss the breath as a force of life. We will rely on ancient scriptures which explain the breath as the ultimate life force. We will look at different sources of energy and ascertain which ones can be replenished and which ones deplete our resources. We will also realize the steadfastness of the breath as it is with us the moment we enter the world and remains with us until the moment we transition.

In this lesson, we will talk about the significance of single-pointed focus. We will talk about concentration on the yoga mat and how to take this idea off the mat into the world. We will discuss the benefits of monotasking, rather than multitasking. We will learn how to place our attention in the right places and upon the right things so that we are aligned with our purpose in life.

Upeksha is to be equal-minded. We will look at its significance as a means to calm the mind and as part of a path that leads to true love. We will talk about how to cultivate the qualities of upeksha in everyday situations. We will learn about tolerance and indifference. We will also learn about remaining stable and solid in all circumstances.