Yoga philosophy provides a model for understanding ourselves in our fullness. It helps us investigate, and see for ourselves, who we really are as spiritual beings expressing in the world through the vehicles of the mind and the body. To always be aware that we are the conscious Self, to be anchored in spiritual realization, even while active in the world—this is the goal of yoga.
We have the power to observe the body, the senses, the mind, the emotions, and the intellect. Since we can observe those functions, we can discern that our essential nature is distinct from them. Anything that we can observe must not be what we are. Thus the great way of spiritual inquiry naturally arises in us: Who is this “I” that observes our thoughts? Is conscious of feelings and sensations? Who is it that inquires? When we peel back the layers of our experience, we always find that one, ever-conscious, unchanging Reality at the core. That is what we are.
Not only does this practice of contemplative inquiry bring insights into our essential nature as Supreme Consciousness, it also is a great aid to living in and from that perspective. The combined practices of superconscious meditation and contemplative inquiry help to create more energetic distance between us and our thoughts and feelings. We are better equipped to first observe them, and then respond to them. This is an important contrast to being erroneously identified with thoughts and emotions and letting them unconsciously determine our reactions to situations. Spiritual awareness gives us the great gift of the pause—a moment where we can observe what is arising, inquire into it, and then choose an appropriate response. This is freedom.
This pause of mindful awareness will naturally arise as a benefit of our spiritual practice but we can also cultivate it. This is especially helpful in areas of life where we want to change habits that no longer serve us or break away from old reactive patterns. Instead of helplessly watching ourselves engage in that habit or get emotionally triggered, we can engage in the power of a pause. Here are five easy steps to discover the power in a pause:
- Identify a situation where you have been acting out a habitual pattern, or find yourself vulnerable to reacting to certain people or circumstances. Start with something small so you can experience success and learn how it works. This could be something like checking your email too frequently, mindlessly watching TV, snacking when you are not hungry, or the tendency to get upset by someone’s remarks.
- Decide now that before you engage in that habitual behavior, or respond to a challenging situation, you will pause for a moment of introspection.
- Shift your awareness into the depths of your being. Remind yourself that you are That which is observing and you can now chose to respond in the highest way.
- Think about the outcome you desire in the situation: a healthier body? More peace of mind? A more loving relationship?
- Choose the response that is consistent with the outcome you desire.
It doesn’t take much time with this practice to become aware that energy is contained in that conscious pause and that energy is powerful. We can use that energy to build the lives we want to live.
Think about It: The average American will spend about 3 hours per day watching television which adds up to 15 hours a week. If a person spends about 9 hours sleeping, then at least one day's entire waking hours each week are spent watching TV. –Ron Kaufman
Be Inspired: Realize the Self to be distinct from the body, sense organs, mind, intellect, and the myriad aspects of nature—as the witness of their functions, as a king views his kingdom.
–Adi Shankaracharya
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