BKS Iyengar's assertion that "You cannot do yoga. Yoga is your natural state. What you can do are yoga exercises" invites us to reconsider our understanding of yoga. This statement challenges the common perception that yoga is merely a series of physical postures or exercises. Instead, it suggests that yoga is an intrinsic aspect of our being, a state of existence that we often overlook in our busy lives. Recognizing this distinction is crucial, as it shifts our focus from performance to presence, from doing to being.
In a world that often equates worth with productivity, Iyengar's words serve as a gentle reminder of our inherent nature. They encourage us to explore the depths of our true selves rather than merely engaging in the external practices that have become synonymous with yoga. This exploration is not just a physical endeavor; it is a profound journey into the essence of who we are. By understanding yoga as our natural state, we open ourselves to a more authentic experience of life, one that is rooted in awareness and connection.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery in Iyengar's quote is striking in its simplicity yet profound in its implications. The phrase "you cannot do yoga" suggests an inherent limitation in the way we often approach the practice. It evokes a sense of liberation, as if to say that yoga is not a task to be accomplished but a state to be realized. The verbs chosen—"do" versus "is"—highlight a fundamental distinction between action and existence, inviting us to shift our perspective from striving to simply being.
In the speaker's tradition
Within the tradition of yoga, particularly as articulated by BKS Iyengar, the concept of dharma plays a crucial role in understanding our natural state. Dharma refers to the inherent duty or nature of an individual, suggesting that each person has a unique path that aligns with their true self. Iyengar's perspective invites us to explore our dharma through the practice of yoga, emphasizing that the exercises are a means to align with our authentic nature rather than a checklist of accomplishments.
Moreover, this idea resonates with the Buddhist concept of sunyata, or emptiness, which teaches that our true nature is not defined by the transient aspects of our lives. In this light, Iyengar's assertion can be seen as an invitation to recognize the emptiness of our conditioned identities and to embrace the fullness of our being. In his seminal work, "Light on Yoga," Iyengar emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and mindfulness, encouraging practitioners to cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves through their practice.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching might resonate: a busy professional who approaches yoga as a way to relieve stress. Initially, they may focus solely on the physical aspects of the practice, striving to master challenging poses. However, as they begin to internalize Iyengar's teaching, they may shift their focus from achieving a perfect pose to simply being present on the mat. This shift allows them to experience yoga not as a task to complete but as a sanctuary for self-discovery and connection with their inner self.
In relationships, this teaching can manifest in profound ways. Imagine a couple navigating a difficult conversation, each person feeling the weight of their own expectations and fears. By embracing the idea that their true selves are already whole, they can approach the dialogue with openness and vulnerability, rather than defensiveness. This perspective fosters a deeper connection, allowing them to engage authentically and compassionately, transcending the limitations of their conditioned responses.
A reflection
As we contemplate Iyengar's profound statement, we are invited to reflect on our own relationship with yoga and our natural state. What does it mean for you to recognize that yoga is not something to be done but rather a state of being? In what ways can you cultivate this awareness in your daily life, allowing the exercises of yoga to guide you back to your true self? This inquiry invites us to explore the depths of our being and to embrace the fullness of our existence beyond the confines of our daily routines.
