The Qualities Of The Mind
It’s important to be aware of the more subtle aspects of Yoga so that we can fully understand how Yoga asana practice works within the body. This month we have been exploring the Gunas or the three qualities that make up all things within us and in our environment. The word Guna literally translates to ‘a rope’. All the things we experience in the world (that which we see, hear, touch, smell and sense) are made up of these 3 qualities: Sattva, Rajas and Tamas. Eddie Stern describes beautifully as: Sattva or that which is harmonious, bright, clear and reflective; Rajas or that which clouds perception, is active and passionate and sparks creativity; Tamas or all that is heavy, inert, or dark, the force of gravity and giving mass to objects. You can imagine a rope made of three parts that intertwine around each other. I like to think of it as we and all that exists around us are intertwining every moment of the day, seeking balance. As humans we are either being in equilibrium or moving out of equilibrium. When we are in a state of equilibrium there is endless potential for growth, we see opportunity in all that arises good or bad.
I love this description of the gunas from Eddie Stern’s book ‘One Simple Thing’:
“In a traditional example, we can look at a candle: the wax is tamas (inert), the flame is rajas (it burns), and the light from the flame is sattva (it illuminates). These three are not mutually exclusive. In order for any object to fulfill its purpose, the ratios of the gunas must be balanced. If there is too much wax, and no wick showing through, you can't have a flame. If there is a long wick and too much flame, the wax will melt away quickly, and you won't get long-lasting light, plus there will be lots of smoke(rajas). If the wax is not created proportionately, it will not melt, which will prevent the flame from igniting, which would be a problem of tamas not fulfilling its supportive function.”
In the Hatha Yoga Pradipika it is explained that the practice of asana is aimed at reducing the overactivity of rajas that happens in the nervous system and tamas that manifests in heaviness in lower abdomen and legs. Rajas shows itself in our general compulsion towards overdoing, being plugged in, busy, multitasking…or a general seeking of constant action. Slowing down, practicing asanas, taking deep breaths, having a meditation practice of sorts and honoring rest are all ways in which we can begin to move into equilibrium.
To close this reflection off with wise words here is another thought from Eddie Stern’s book: “Rajas and Tamas are not ‘bad gunas’. They are simply properties of nature that can either conceal or excite, and we need both of those things at different times and in different circumstances. It’s only when they get out of balance that they become a problem”
Join us for yogic explorations of sorts!