DEVELOPING TAPAS

In the Himalayan Institute Yoga Teacher Training Manual, Tapas is described as meaning "heat". It goes on to say: "It implies effort. When we make a disciplined effort we build energy and enthuism for our task. Tapas leads to self-mastery." Tapas is the third of the niyamas, spiritual practices, or observances. Each of the niyamas have been discussed in an earlier post. I find it fitting to revisit tapas at the beginning of September, when the school year gets underway. I always get a sense of renewal at this time of year: perhaps it's the school teacher in me. I am more prone to make resolutions now than I am in January. This idea of self-discipline is particularly poignant for me, in regard to regularly posting to my blog. I have been less than self-disciplined when it comes to entering blog posts. Instead of flogging myself for my inadequacies, I choose to see that this is an area in my life that I've not quite mastered. So, what can I do to become more successful with this? I know that scaling down my expectations is a first step. It would be less daunting to write a paragraph or two,than it would be to feel as though I need to write a tome every time I sit down at the computer. How do I build self-discipline? I start small. My particular challenge is posting regularly to my blog. We all have areas in our lives where our self discipline is challenged. Maybe you have trouble finding time to practice asana every day. Start small; Set aside enough time to do two rounds of sun salutations every morning when you get out of bed. Success is easier to come by if you practice at the same time and in the same place every day. If you miss a day or two, forgive yourself and start again. Practice leads to mastery. Where in your life can you build the fire of self-discipline? Start small - start today.