|
We now begin to study the Niyamas, the internal restraings... howwe interact with ourselves, our internal world. The practice of Niyama harnesses the energy generated from our practice and cultivation of the yamas. Niyama is about self-regulation - helping us maintain a positive environment in which to grow.
.
Shaucha is way to achieve purity is through practice of the five yamas of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, control of the sensual drive, and non-greed. Practicing these yamas is a cleansing process to clear away negative physical and mental states of being... and in turn, to achieve a "pure" state of being, a physical and mental state of being that is better prepared for higher states of consciousness.
Saucha is cleanliness of body, heart, mind and environment. It is directly translated as that and nothing else. This involves making choices about what you take in as food, through all channels, mouth, ears, eyes and mind.
Do you let any thoughts come in your mind at random, or anything to go into your mouth, or listen to anything that may even be disturbing to your being? Purity of body, cleanliness, good health habits, a clear and orderly environmen ae Shaucha.t
Practice evenness of mind, thoughts, speech and discrimination. Keep the environment clean and clear.
Practice orderliness surrounding the self and our thoughts. Orderliness of environment. Clearing of energy.
By the practice of mental purity one acquires cheerfulness, one-pointedness and vision of the self.
In an ancient Upanishadic hymn, a sage prays:
Oh Lord,
May my body become pure.
May I be free from umpurity.
May I know myself as Divine Light.
Oh Lord,
May my mind become pure.
May my self become pure.
May I know myself as Divine Light.
Oh Lord,
May I realize You with my purified understanding.
May I realize the highest bliss with my purified understanding.
May I realize You who are the highest bliss with my purified understanding.
|
