Spirituality & Yoga

Yoga has been called a spiritual discipline. What does spirituality even mean? What is this connection that we are seeking? What does it have to do with god? Aren’t these the first questions that pop into our head when we think about spirituality?

Let’s try and clear the air around some of these. The logic behind yoga and its existence is that as humans, with emotions, feelings, attachment and expectations, we face suffering in different forms, and yoga is our path to freedom from these miseries. It’s the journey to moksha or bliss, a state where we no longer are affected by these dukha (sufferings). For this, it proposes a simple philosophy, that our quest for bliss will come to an end when we connect with the supreme soul, which is present in each one of us. And that’s the connection, the union with the Purusa (supreme soul) which can liberate us from the suffering of the world. This mean that what we are seeking is not an external force, but our own true potential that we want to identify and reach. 

Spirituality lies not just in believing in the existence of god but in believing in the self, the version that is better than the one that is in front of the eyes and that sets us on the path of good karma. Introspection and self study are the tools to get this insight. When we are able to dive deeper into our own self and face the reality can we take a step towards change and become better versions of our self and that’s the spirituality in yoga. Being more aware of our thoughts and feeling can make us more connected to ourselves and their analysis can then lead us towards a positive change. Being mindful of how our own actions, reactions can affect others can help us find better communication and relationships with others as well ourselves. Finally by directing our energies towards good work, service of others in whatever capacity, we can find purpose and uplift our souls and guide them towards moksha. All these concepts have been beautifully explained Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras where the meaning, purpose and path to yoga have all been laid. Many commentaries are available for the same, I’m reading the one by BKS Iyengar. Which one is your favorite? Write in the comments below!