svadyaya

In the yoga sutra, Svādhyāya refers to self-study: looking inward, reading scriptures, ‘doing the work.’ As we all continue to look inward and peel back the layers of our conditioning- the roots of our actions, reactions and emotions based on learned behaviors and past emotions (samskaras)- part of this practice must include time for quiet reflection to digest and absorb new information and learning. Take time to examine the intentions behind -and potential results of- your actions. Be deliberate. If you’re trying to help- make sure the actions are actually helpful. 
As yoga teachers, studio owners, and practitioners we must be firmly rooted in non-harming, and as we exist in the continued state of inequality in our country and the horrible injustices happening daily to our Black and brown communities, we must take non-harming further and be active healers. 
Inevitably discomfort will arise. If you, like me, have benefited from white privilege, please remember this discomfort is nothing compared to the lived reality of our Black brothers and sisters. The real trauma and pain. So our job is to sit with it. If someone calls you out- take the time to let it sink in. Examine your reaction & where it stems from, and who benefits and who does not. Own your mistakes and truly apologize. 👓 Make cleaning your lenses a daily practice so the actions that you take to heal are clear, rooted in reality and non-harming. Our country desperately needs to heal. Lives are on the line. So it’s (past) time to do the work. Listen more. Be watchful for racism arising from your own conditioning, not just in the actions of those around you. Study your thoughts and behaviors. And read and google and listen to all of the Black voices leading the way. 👂 
From one of her many insightful posts: “In order to navigate the long road and unforeseen plans, we all need to the most access to our inner wisdom possible.” - Octavia Raheem

#yogainaction #yogapractice#yogaeverydamnday #yogaeveryday#svadyaya #introspection #samskaras
Black Lives Matter