abhyāsa

continuity

Why is it important to stick with one method? The best metaphor we know of, is that if you’re digging a well trying to find water, it is much better to dig one deep hole rather than many shallow ones. The same goes for a practice. Imagine a physical practice for a moment. If you’d choose which poses to do each day depending on how you feel, you’d most likely end up doing the poses that make you feel good, or that you are good at. Most often those are not the poses that reveal our limitations - other than our attachments and likes/dislikes of course. If we have a set practice, we are forced to see ourselves through that lens even on days that we don’t want to be seen. We have a framework through which we have the opportunity to go deeper. If you imagine a concentration/meditation practice for a moment. Say that we would choose to focus on the breath one day, the movement of the belly the other, and practicing a mantra the next, the practice becomes a mere reflection of an already scattered mind. We are trying to bring the mind inward, to nurture a one-pointed focus, or in different words, see the simplicity that underlies the complexity that we create - which will become far more difficult if we choose different methods each time we practice. When we ‘spice up’ and change the practice, we are most often under the rule of our likes and dislikes - raga and dvesha - which we are tying to penetrate by observation, not give the reins to. If you are still on the path of finding a method/practice that you want to devote yourself to, stick to one modality for a period of time instead of switching each day. That’s just our humble piece of advice. Give yourself to one practice for a minimum of 21 days, then evaluate. And notice where the evaluation is coming from. Sometimes the mind does not want to go into unfamiliar territories or be called out on its devious patterns. This is where a set practice becomes a helpful tool in training the mind to trust, become more at ease, and to lean into the unknown.

Why do the sacred texts emphasize regularity? Discipline is something that is getting diluted in our era of distraction. Regularity and commitment is a rarity in our current times. However, repetition has the potential to cultivate a deepened awareness, as it can pierce through the layers of illusion. With the help of repetition we can take a different perspective in regards to the internal mental dialogue and sort through debris in the monkey mind, and the same with our emotions. When you stick with something long enough, you move beyond the phenomena and start to see the essence beneath it all. That awareness can be cultivated through continuity with a practice. The same goes for commitment in relationships. It’s the same with anything you want to get to know wholeheartedly, at depth, no matter in what sphere of life. Observe intently, yet relaxed, and your attention transforms into awareness over time. The effort that may initially be required to tame the monkey mind slowly gets subtler and before you know it you are practicing for different reasons than when you begun, and with less effort. Regularity forces us to see ourselves and our patterns, expressed in a myriad ways, held in different light each day. It is a means to get to the heart of the matter as you gain more exposure to your own conditioning and ways of hiding. It is always recommended to do 10 min of meditation - or 10 sun salutations - on a regular basis, than a 2 hr practice on occasion. If you truly want to deepen your relationship with self, regularity serves the process. No one will force you. This is something you choose for your self.

Practicing regularly, over a long period of time - abhyasa - is a way to move beyond the initial phases of effort, of mental turmoil and to smoother tap into the deeper aspects of the practice. The motivation to stay with the practice is often what ebbs and flows. But the more often you practice, you end up nurturing the faith/trust - shraddha - that the practice will bring benefits beyond what is known, as it will affect your perceptions beyond what you can currently imagine.

It is often recommended to dedicate the same time of day to your practice, preferably in the same place. Making our practice a sacred routine is often very helpful, using whatever rituals you may find inspiring to dive within. And making a physical sacred space for you to practice in is often a helpful way to tame the mind to want to go there. However, in a fast paced era with much movement and travels, maybe doing your practice in the same place, at the same time, is just not feasible. Then do what you can. Showing up is what’s important, and at the end of the day, your practice will teach you as long as you are willing to observe. If you want tips on how to nurture a regular home practice, don’t hesitate to reach out. Even though your life journey is yours alone, we are in it together. At our house you’ll find many small alters in nooks and crannies. These serve as sweet reminders and brings about a deep sense of gratitude and reverence for us, which we carry through our day. The same may serve your journey. What works for us, may not be the same for you. Listen in and find your way.