The fifth (and final) of the five Yamas is Aparigraha, which can be translated as “non-greed” or “non-grasping.”
I had never considered before that grasping non-material things — like my need to “win” in competitive cycling classes or my need to advance my career — might be a form of greed.
I’m also more and more intrigued by the way these things are often stated in the Sutras. At least in my translation, Aparigraha is “non-greed,” rather than “generosity.” What that means, for me, is that it’s not (just) about freely sharing our resources with others — donating to charity or giving food to a hungry person — but being completely free of our tendency to grasp.
Contemplation
As we contemplate “non-greed” / “non-grasping,” I invite you to consider where and when you hoard resources of any kind. Most of us practicing here probably haven’t taken vows of poverty, but we still have ample opportunities to be gregarious with what we’ve been given.
Meditation
In our meditation practice, we consider ways in which we might “grasp” and opportunities to practice Aparigraha. Is there a way that meditation “should” look? Feel? Do you come to the cushion with expectation? Do you consider every time your mind wanders as a failure to be a “good meditator”?
Greed is a form of steeling (Asteya) because you’re keeping for yourself that which someone else could use. How is it greedy to cling to ideas and expectations that don’t serve you? In my opinion by holding on to old ideas of yourself, you’re robbing the world of your fullest offering.
It’s like the Christian metaphor of keeping your light “under a bushel.” It is selfish to withhold all of who you are! When you fully live into and share your light, you are making the world a better place!
Practice
How does Aparigraha resonate with your Vinyasa practice?
The theme for the week is Aparagraha, which translates to non-greed / non-grasping. What does it mean to be in a state of non-grasping? This intermediate vinyasa yoga flow focuses on hip opening and twisting as a means to release and relieve lower back pain.
It’s also, more importantly, a chance to release ALL that we hold, including expectation. Where do you grasp in your yoga practice? What does your ego hold on to? For a lot of us, it’s the need to make beautiful shapes. To find the fanciest headstand / handstand / arm balance / twist / contortion. Wanting to have a strong physical practice is great. Wanting to look your best is totally fine.
But greedily prioritizing those things takes us out of the Aparagraha.
Nothing that appears in this blog or on this website is intended to treat or diagnose any disorder, physical or otherwise. Always consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.
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