This week's theme, as we continue to journey through The Secret Power of Yoga by Nischala Joy Devi is:
Consciousness is elevated by abhyasa and vairagya.
The concepts of abhyasa and vairagya, which originate from ancient Indian philosophy, resonate deeply with modern women's experiences. Abhyasa, which means dedicated practice, and vairagya, which means dispassion or non-attachment, might seem like relics of a bygone era. Yet, in the whirlwind of juggling careers, relationships, and self-care, these principles offer a surprisingly potent roadmap for navigating the complexities of our modern lives.
For a modern woman, abhyasa manifests in the daily grind. It's the early mornings carved out for that jog, the commitment to a new skill learned online, or the unwavering dedication to mastering a challenging work project. It's the conscious effort to carve out personal space amidst the constant demands, a practice that requires discipline and unwavering focus.
In a world that bombards us with distractions, abhyasa is choosing intentionality over impulse.
However, abhyasa alone can feel like an endless treadmill. This is where vairagya steps in. It's not about renouncing everything we hold dear but about cultivating a healthy detachment from external validation and societal expectations. It's the ability to step back and differentiate between what truly matters and what feeds the insatiable hunger for "more." Vairagya allows us to prioritise self-care without succumbing to FOMO (fear of missing out). It's the courage to say no to social obligations that drain our energy and the wisdom to choose quality over quantity in our relationships.
The modern woman's journey often involves setting boundaries. Vairagya empowers her to say no to unrealistic work demands, toxic relationships, and the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. Women often burden themselves with the quiet rebellion against the "have it all" narrative. Liberation comes from the understanding that true fulfilment lies in pursuing a life that aligns with our values, not external expectations. Abhyasa and vairagya are not mutually exclusive. They are two sides of the same coin.
Dedicated practice (abhyasa) allows us to develop the inner strength and clarity needed for dispassion (vairagya).
Conversely, a dispassionate approach (vairagya) helps us focus our practice (abhyasa) on what truly matters.
The modern woman's path is not a straight line. There will be days when abhyasa feels like a struggle, and maintaining vairagya seems impossible. But by embracing these ancient principles, we can navigate the chaos with greater purpose and find a sense of inner peace amidst the external storm. Ultimately, abhyasa and vairagya empower the modern woman to survive and thrive, carving her unique path to self-discovery and fulfilment.
As we move through our busy lives, may we find moments of quiet practice and gentle detachment. May the wisdom of abhyasa and vairagya guide us on our journeys, leading us to inner peace and fulfilment.
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