saucha - purity
Saucha - the 1st niyama, or way to live better within ourselves, translates to cleanliness or purity.
On a physical level we are taught to keep ourselves clean and well nourished.
But what about our minds - how do we foster a clean and well-functioning mind?
One place to start is by utilising our environment. We know when we are surrounded by a messy or chaotic space, we can feel scattered and lose clarity. When we clear our environment, it somehow clears our head space.
This helps, but we will still have the constant chatter of our ‘monkey minds’. So how do we create clarity of mind, removing unhelpful & scattered thoughts and distractions?
Our yoga practice helps us – our asana (focus on the pose), pranayama (focus on the breath), and our mini peace meditation at the end of the class also gives us a point of focus. Mindfulness throughout the day is also helpful. Do this by bringing your attention to what you are doing in the moment, and tune in to the sensory experience this brings with it – what can you see, hear, smell, taste and touch. This helps to ease stress by taking you out of your thinking mind as you focus on your sensory experience in the moment.
Considering this week how your environment impacts your state of mind... and what helps you to keep a clear and calm, focussed mind?
Reflecting, is there some chatter or baggage I’m carrying around that is not helpful, not serving me? Resolving to be mindful of this chatter this week and when it comes up, bring your focus back to the task at hand, or to your breath. You can also sit back and observe the chatter, like a witness, watching what the mind has to say, with some curiosity and interest, or deciding to turn your attention elsewhere.
Nicky’s yoga classes are a gentle, hatha style, suitable for beginners.
Along with teaching weekly yoga classes in Beaumaris, Bayside Melbourne, Nicky is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (PACFA), coach and mindfulness meditation teacher.
Get in touch with Nicky to find out more.