11/09/2024
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali state that ignorance (avidya) causes suffering (dukha). Avidya is described as “when you think you are right but you are wrong.” So you always find out just a little too late by the presence of dukha, “a feeling of restriction around the heart, a feeling of being choked, suffocated or trapped.” Every human being experiences the cycle of avidya and dukha and it is described as “the unavoidable motivator of our practice.”
One of the key points in the sutras is when Patanjali gives us clues as to when the “seeds of avidya” may be present by identifying the 4 kleshas, or “children of avidya.”
1. Selfishness (Asmita)
2. Greed (Raga)
3. Hatred (Dvesa)
4. Fear (Abhinivesa)
These “seeds” are deeply rooted in every human being and we are extremely reactive to them when provoked. You can see why these qualities are highly targeted by both propaganda and advertising, quite relentlessly in our modern world. So if we can see that we are being provoked by the kleshas, perhaps we can pause and not act when the veil of avidya is covering our eyes and distorting our vision.
In that pause, and it may be as short as the pause between breaths, we can do something to change our state of mind. This is where the tools of the practice come in. If we are aware of the provocation, perhaps we can create a little distance from it and let it roll by without being swept up in it. We might adjust our posture (asana) to a position where we feel more stable (sthira) and comfortable (sukha). We might use something more subtle like a mudra or gesture, or some form of regulating our breathing (pranayama). Or we may find repeating a mantra or positive affirmation helpful. Visualization of something positive or grounding can be useful. Eventually, Patanjali says “anything that helps is okay!”
When we have a yoga practice we have a chance to put these tools to the test and hone in on which ones are most effective and continue developing a relationship with them. So then you can find them in a split second, like the pause between breaths, and head off the cycle of avidya and dukha before it settles in.
One expanded definition of “shanti, shantihi” (peace, peace) that I gleaned from another teacher (Mark Whitwell) is “not provoked, not provoked, definitely not provoked!” I’ve been finding it useful lately!
One last point is that Patanjali states that we can’t do anything about the dukha that has already happened or is happening, but we can avoid the suffering that is yet to come.
Recent events reiterate just how powerful and deeply rooted the kleshas are within us. So watch your mind and be aware of your own susceptibility to the seeds of ignorance and practice your tools and put them into action!
-Kelly
Murdra: the “heart shield” or “guardian of life” for all aspects of heartache, physical or emotional.
