Yogic philosophy teaches non-violence, compassion and respect for all things living. The goal of yoga practice, in theory, is reaching the state called samadhi or bliss. Many interpretations of this state exist but I believe that samadhi is experienced in the realization that all things are connected. That sense of being part of something larger than oneself and something quite wonderous and truly awesome.
This philosophy first requires a true desire to enact positive change. Another concept in yoga is the idea of avidya, which translates to incorrect perception, ignorance, and misunderstanding. Branches of avidya unclude: raga— wanting without needing; asmita— insisting on being right, or reveling in others being wrong; dvesa— rejecting people or experiences because of prior experiences; and abhinivesa— fear. Samskara is the result of avidya. Samskara is the habituation of behaviors and thoughts that no longer prove accurate. Samskara is baggage! Yoga practice is helpful in clearing new pathways, and ridding old habits. More importantly, your true desire and intention to make positive change in and of itself becomes a powerful tool. The trick to becoming part of and creating new community is the understanding that everyone has a different and valid point of view. Many people are compassionate and thoughtful but are also under the influence of different forms of avidya.
In our society, I believe abhinivesa or fear has become a defining factor for many peoples’ lives. Each and every day many of us make decisions based solely on fear. Learning to trust oneself and others and to see the connection between all living things is a step in the direction away from fear and into hope. The crises of global warming and war are real, but it appears to me that what very well might come out of them is a true sense of global community. Never before has any one person’s actions so clearly and obviously affected people, plants, and animals across the globe. I believe that the opposite of fear is hope and trust. I would like to encourage a focus on creating connections, supporting, belonging, and, most exciting, creating community for the benefit of all. The connections and communities that have begun at O2 have and will continue to spread light and love and power. I am humbled and inspired by all of you that have touched my life and this living breathing creature that is O2 Yoga.
Peace,
Mimi
