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#Post#: 61--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: September 29, 2022, 8:11 am
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[quote author=Darren link=topic=4.msg34#msg34 date=1664123155]
One person that I admire who emulates at least three of the four
pathways (karma, bhakti and jnana) would be David Googins. David
Googins is a motivational speaker/celebrity now. But Googins
started his pathway to create the person he is today after
growing up with a number of unfair obstacles in his life.
Googins speaks about making decisions and realizing that only he
can change things for himself. Like being the person that he
believes he should be by, showing up for himself, ignoring what
people will think of him and following his truth through all of
his life's obstacles. Googins went from being a significantly
over weight, unhealthy adult in his mid to late twenties, to
becoming a in top physical shape, a navy seal, running ultra
marathons and still completing them while battling significant
physically injuries, writing a book, and dedicating time to help
fight wild fires in the western states. I find his content to be
very motivating which helps me push myself physically and
mentally when faced with even simple challenges of just being
tired but still showing up to do what i feel like I need to do.
My conscious karma yoga is always trying to be kind and patient
to people regardless of what is going on in my life at the time.
My unconscious karma yoga is finding the balance of staying kind
to people but being able to still put someone in their place if
they try to take advantage of that kindness.
My Bhakti yoga is praying and showing gratitude for everything
that I have physically and spiritually. After being a Police
Officer for so many years and dealing with so much negativity
from meeting people at some of the worst moments in their life,
it was hard throughout those years to not take that toxicity and
negativity with me and I had lost all faith in things for a long
time. Life really seemed like hell on earth for a long time. I
think that helped me to be who I am today by recognizing that
there is more good then bad but you can't have one without the
other. Now I always try to look for the positive in situations
and focus on that over any negatives.
My Jnana yoga is trying to be who I see as my best/highest self.
There are a lot of things, I feel that I still need to work
toward in my life, with who I am and the choices that I make. I
started cutting certain people and things out of my life that
weren't bringing me to where I wanted myself to go and I started
to make more room for the people in my life that help me to grow
and hopefully I help them as well. I also enjoy seeing and
helping people grow themselves and not focusing on comparing
myself competitively to them.
My Raja yoga is that path that I am immersed in now. It started
with just feeling better physically from practicing yoga, but
also I slowly started noticing that my mind felt much more clear
and balanced after a yoga class. A lot of the things that I
personally align with are being taught to me through YTT with
the Yoga philosophy/history, sutras. There is so much more to
yoga overall then I had realized before starting YTT. Some of
the philosophies, I was already paying attention to spiritually
but I had just not connected the dots that it was so closely
aligned with or born out of yoga. So while there is still so
much information to absorb, I enjoy the deeper exposure to it
and look forward to continuously building further upon it.
[/quote]
I've read about David Googins, and that guy is a beast! He went
from hardship to leadership! I love how you pointed out
conscious and unconscious karma yoga, particularly about putting
someone in their place. I agree and can relate to that, very
much so. Having our boundaries may seem [to others] offensive
when we are kind and compassionate to ourselves.
Your Jnana yoga experiences knock old pillars down and enable
you to build new ones. As you stated, make more room for people
in your life to help you grow, and it being reciprocal.
I'm glad YTT is helping you on your path and connecting the
dots. Little did you know you're already practicing yoga in
subtle ways that profoundly impact your life. We're glad you're
here!
#Post#: 62--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: September 29, 2022, 8:21 am
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[quote author=Kelli Cook link=topic=4.msg49#msg49
date=1664309673]
Karma Yoga
I have never heard of Karma Yoga (or the two things put
together) before YTT. I also am realizing how much yoga is
beyond the four corners of a mat! Yoga goes way beyond the
poses and Karma Yoga seems to really reflect that. It is the
yoga of action or duty where we learn kindness and compassion
without an expectation of gain. The journey I have been on in
the last two years has made me more patient, less judgmental,
and more appreciative of having happiness, and knowing that most
people must work hard on that happiness. Surviving through hard
struggles and trauma is more common than we all know and having
the courage to share my journey to others feels like my form of
“Karma Yoga”. I am so passionate about speaking out on my
postpartum anxiety and depression because it happens to SO many
women. Some don’t even realize it. I love being a safe space
for other moms who are struggling. OR for even new moms-to-be.
To be honest, in a humble way, of what is to come in their
motherhood journey, that does not scare them, but prepares them.
Since embarking on YTT I am really finding myself approaching
conversations and people in a different way. A softer way. I
am wanting to share and tell friends and family about my
learnings. I have become a much calmer, patient, emotionally
open person. I was always social, but it feels a bit different.
I find myself wanting to listen to people’s stories to relate
and have deeper conversations. I am currently on a work retreat
right now and I just constantly find myself telling my
colleagues about YTT and how it has lit an exciting new fire
inside of me. This morning I practiced the beginning of our
sequence on two of my coworkers! I had less to drink last night
because I wanted to get up, feel OK and move my body through our
sequence. I feel a purpose to take more care of myself.
Bhakti Yoga
I will be honest here and say I have never heard of Bhakti yoga
before, so it is hard to say “what” my bhakti yoga is. However,
after reading more about it, I am drawn to mantras and setting
intentions. So, I would like to practice more of this in my
everyday life. I opt to direct my love “my Bhakti Yoga” towards
myself and towards others.
Jnana Yoga
I am having a hard time answering this one. I think I need to
see how others respond to understand this one a bit more. I
will respond with another message after.
Raja Yoga
When I looked a bit more into Raja Yoga, I found this quote:
“Raja yoga involves all three dimensions of human existence
(physical, mental and spiritual)” - That is exactly what this
journey is bringing me. Deepening my physical practice which
helps me calm, sleep, and feel energized. Work on my mental
state after a very challenging, traumatic couple of years. And
spiritually, opening and challenging my mind to retain and
learn.
[/quote]
Kelli,
Thank you for opening up about your personal experiences and
giving yourself grace, not only during YTT but also just the
last couple of years. It led you to this point, and being able
to apply it to your work environment exemplifies karma as you're
doing a deed that comes from the heart, knowing it may help the
next person. This along with postpartum, I can only imagine how
rewarding it must feel for you.
Bhakti is definitely incorporating mantras and setting
intentions. Your devotion to your happiness is incredibly
important, so much so you were already doing it and didn't know
what it was.
For Jnana, refer back to what I wrote in response to Heidi and
also look through Darren's response. It's about wisdom, where
you look for wisdom, pillars, person morals, and ethos that
guide you, or even outside resources like therapists,
audiobooks, scripture, etc.
#Post#: 63--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: September 29, 2022, 9:25 am
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[quote author=Madi Rowan link=topic=4.msg51#msg51
date=1664318784]
Karma Yoga
I've mentioned in a few other responses that I can definitely
resonate to Karma Yoga in a variety of ways. I believe I live my
life with a lot of compassion for others, I try my best to treat
others with kindness, without expecting anything in return.
I think a conscious way I practice Karma Yoga is simply taking
care of my husband. He's obviously a grown man who can take care
of himself, but it brings me joy as his wife & as someone who
loves him to take care of him, listen, make time for him, cook
meals, take care of our home, etc. I don't do these things
because he makes me or because I expect anything in return, I
simply do them as an act of love.
And then I think one of the simplest ways that I practice karma
yoga almost unconsciously in my daily life is smiling at people.
Without realizing it sometimes, I'll smile at someone with no
expectation of getting anything in return. It honestly makes me
happy when I smile at someone, because in most cases, they too
smile back. You never know what that person may be going
through, what their day looked like, or how badly they needed
someone to smile at them - a smile is such a simple act of
kindness you can share with anyone, even a stranger who you
don't know. And you really will never know the impact it could
leave on someone's day.
Bhakti Yoga
I think my Bhakti Yoga is defined by my commitment to my
gratitude practices, as well as, rituals of taking care of
myself. I read a book called "the Magic" a few years ago (I try
to read it once a year now because it's amazing), & it really
changed the way I saw & practiced gratitude within my life.
Reading that book really helped me establish habits that over
time became routine.
I truly believe you cannot pour from an empty cup, so I make a
conscious effort to fill my own cup, do things I enjoy, rest, &
spend time alone.
Jnana Yoga
If I'm comprehending correctly (LOL), I believe my inner drive
could be considered my area of Jana Yoga. My inner drive is
really what sets the tone for me in all areas of my life & it's
been my fuel from a very young age.
Raja Yoga
The royal path that I currently on now is bringing the peace I
feel when I'm on my mat with me when I leave my mat & go about
through my day. I believe that I've already started to do this
in some ways, but some days, it doesn't feel as cohesive - which
is okay, because this is definitely a journey. I also believe
this journey towards yoga & YTT is helping me feel confident in
the strength of my body & mind. My body has gone through a lot
physically & that's a huge reason why I was drawn to yoga in the
first place. I was looking for a way to still feel strong
without beating my body down like basketball required me to. It
has even brought me to tears when I think about how strong I
feel when I'm on my mat (mentally & physically), while still
being able to be gentle & move in a way that feels goods. I
think that alone is huge part of my Raja Yoga because I'm only
going to continue to build on that as I move through the rest of
YTT, continue to expand my practice, & eventually teach.
[/quote]
Madi,
Your karma yoga is sweet and enduring. I too enjoy looking
after my partner as well, it's rewarding and satisfying knowing
you're contributing to their wellbeing. Of course, they have
grown men, but it's a devotion that contributes to a beautiful
partnership. I couldn't agree more!
Smiling at a person is indeed a small gesture but can go a
long way! Just sending out positive energy and doing it simply
just to do it is essential for our well-being too.
Jnana yoga is that drive, that wisdom that helps you to move
forward. That inner drive may have been instilled in you from a
young age by examples, leadership, referring to scripture or
deep conversations with those you admire, etc.
Your royal path is using everything you're encompassing now and
reflecting on what you've already been using, the inner wisdom
and awareness to support the journey you're on now. We're so
glad to have in this training.
#Post#: 64--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: September 29, 2022, 10:05 am
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[quote author=Erin Curro link=topic=4.msg54#msg54
date=1664324003]
Karma Yoga
I think my equally conscious and also subconscious Karma Yoga is
caring for others and genuinely reflecting the best version of
themselves back to them. As a little girl my Mom would tell me I
would watch “The Little Engine that Could” and the scene where
he started slipping down the hill and almost did not make it, I
would start crying, and at the end of the movie ask to rewatch
it again and again. My poor Mom thought she was traumatizing me
haha. I remember rescuing various animals as a child too and
just truly loving caring for all living beings. I have never
wanted or expected anything in return. The gift is in the
giving. I wear my heart on my sleeve and have always been
incredibly sensitive and an empath I suppose you could say. What
brings me immense joy daily is extending kindness and compassion
towards others and letting them know and feel how much they are
appreciated and remember just how special they are. I, like
others, have also survived various traumas and can empathize
with human suffering so I always make it a point to follow the
principle of “be kind, for everyone is fighting the hard
battle.” I suppose it’s no surprise I now landed in a career
field that matches my Karma Yoga. It is truly my honor to now
give back to the field that quite literally saved my life.
Bhakti Yoga
My Bhakti Yoga I would say is comprised of my self-care rituals
and mindfulness/meditation based practices. The physical
practice of yoga just being one component. Self-care is not
always easy for me to prioritize but I try to recall the Oxygen
Mask Metaphor and filling up my own bucket so I can help fill up
other’s buckets. My mindfulness and meditation starts with a
morning ritual of feeding and letting out all the dogs followed
by making myself a cup of coffee, which has become a full
meditation in and of it’s own. Part of which includes tearing
off a new page in our family favorite affirmation calendar (my
Dad gifts us all a Louise Hays calendar each year and it is
everyone’s favorite stocking stuffer). I am also a very early
riser (usually up at 4:30 am haha) and the peace and quiet of
the early morning enveloped in the night still is so comforting
for me. I will also practice a meditation here to ground me so I
can feel centered before I start my work day. YTT has helped me
further deepen these practices shifting to book-ending my day
with other mindfulness based stress reduction practices, and all
of which are making a world of difference, which have helped me
practice them consistently. I feel more at peace and centered. I
am hoping to continue to expand on these practices. I used to
practice journaling or gratitude journaling that I enjoyed and
while I practice reflecting on my thoughts/feelings and
extending gratitude daily, I appreciate the art of writing and
how cathartic it can be. Overall, the yin and yang of movement
and stillness is my medicine and I am looking forward to
watching this evolve.
Jnana Yoga
My Jnana Yoga is to always remain and expand upon my curiosity.
I believe the one of the greatest forms of intelligence is
having a curious mind, being curious about yourself and the
world and always being open to learning and growing. I try to
practice this both formally in the training and continuing
education I receive for my field, as well as in general,
engaging in active discussions with others on really any topic
especially one’s others are passionate about, listening,
learning, and sharing. I enjoy doing this while connecting with
others and it fills up my soul. I also enjoy passing on the
knowledge or wisdom I have learned to others to continue to pay
it forward.
Raja Yoga
The royal path that I am on I believe has been lifelong, as it
is for us all, and I am now connecting the threads that tie it
all together. I have better understanding of the pieces of cloth
that comprise my quilt and am also ultimately unsure of where my
royal path will lead. And I am becoming more accepting of that
and embracing the potential new patches and their colors and
patterns that will be added to my quilt. Yoga and the practice
of developing this interospection within myself, establishing a
deeper mind-body connection, and carrying with me the skills and
teachings I learn off my mat into my daily life I believe is
supporting me on my royal path and lighting the way making my
path clear. I did not start YTT to teach but (if I am good
enough LOL), I would be deeply honored. For nothing more than to
integrate both my yoga and clinical skills, give back, and bring
my Karma yoga full circle, which may just be that additional
patch in my quilt and perhaps the golden thread that helps tie
it all the more together.
[/quote]
Erin,
An empath from a young age. Indeed it came full circle for you
to help others through your career, and to do something you
truly enjoy! The actions and deeds you've put out there became
the catalyst for you to step back on bodily physics through
dance and direct it to metaphysics.
I love your affirmations calendar and such a great gift; little
did you know this particular ritual in conjunction with your
mornings of silence, coffee, and mindful base practices were all
devotional to your yoga practice before YTT.
Jnana can be seen and utilized through various lenses and having
a curious mind. As you stated, passing the knowledge onto others
is how collectively we came to this point of evolution,
generations upon generations in your particular field but also
currently as you explore the philosophies of yoga. We're all
conduits of sorts, aren't we? Hoping whatever we do will help
others.
The yogic tools you learn through this program will supplement
your practice immensely as you're already becoming heavily
aware. So many nuggets of wisdom to take away from the
information and mold it best to suit all of those you come in
contact with. Thank you so much for sharing.
#Post#: 65--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: September 29, 2022, 10:16 am
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[quote author=Niki Ehrenkranz link=topic=4.msg55#msg55
date=1664325915]
This Process/Admirer:
This might be a stretch to answer who I admire, but I find
musicians and music to emulate these pathways. Music teaches me
and makes me think through lyrics, can transport me to a time
and place, can instantly change my mood, and connects me to
others. Lyrics can become mantras or can raise questions for
debate. Music and song can be traditions or part of routines; my
morning alarm for years was Intro by the XX.
Karma Yoga:
I practice karma yoga by being patient and kind. We did a
personal brand activity at work and I wrote that I am
hardworking and kind. If someone needs help, others have an open
invitation to come me, a non-judgmental space to ask questions
or be a resource. Also living by the mantra that my dad always
said to me of, “just show up”. Even if I don’t want to or it’s
hard, to show up for myself and for others and in turn others
will show up for me and I will show up for myself in times of
need.
Bhakti Yoga:
Growing up in a Jewish household we celebrated the
high-holidays, at home, with family/friends, or attending
temple. My parents goal for my sister and I was to grow up
believing in something bigger than ourselves, and it did feel
good! Monday was Rosh Hosanna which is the Jewish new year. My
parents were here this weekend which gave us an excuse to cook a
big meal and sit at the dinner table together. We reflected on
what the new year means to us and how this time of year is more
of a fresh start then New years on Dec. 31st. With the weather
changing, people getting back into their routines, it’s a great
time to reflect and set new goals. Holidays are long-term
routines and time for reflection and discussion.
Jnana Yoga:
I practice Jnana yoga by having philosophical discussions and
debates with family and friends. I was having a hard time
answering this one, so I talked it out with my boyfriend. We
discussed not studying specific texts but having a conversation
around body and soul, something bigger than ourselves.
Raja Yoga:
My current path to enlightenment is YTT! I am committed to YTT
and practicing yoga regularly. I enjoy learning and seeing
things in a new light or a different perspective. Having a
routine allows me to be the best version of myself. Being
committed to myself (sleep, exercise, diet, work schedule)
creates space in my mind and schedule to dive deeper into other
areas of interest, such as YTT!
[/quote]
MUSIC! Awwww Indeed it really is a mood changer, I'm currently
listening to classical at the moment, transporting me back
hundreds of years, and Intro from XX was a go-to for me as well.
I too still have it as a sound to wake to.
Karma of being kind and also the wonderful mantra and perhaps
could be considered a sutra of "just showing up" is needed.
You're practicing yoga prior to knowing full well what the
wisdom of yoga actually was.
I love how your whole family comes together for Jewish holidays
and discuss many topics. So many people are inundated with work
life, and at times priorities shift, making it difficult to get
back to our foundational values and rituals. Highlighting and
reflecting on the year while discussing the upcoming year helps
to evolve, make changes, and appreciate the moments.
Your Raja yoga is YTT and we're so glad you chose to be a part
of the program. Your commitment not only to the topics being
discussed but also looking after yourself to "show up" ready and
willing. We're so glad you're in the group!
#Post#: 66--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: September 29, 2022, 1:28 pm
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[quote author=oliviamarotta link=topic=4.msg57#msg57
date=1664336389]
Karma Yoga
My conscious karma is connecting with family. I have four
brothers, none of whom live at home at the moment, so I try to
make a point to reach out to at least one of them daily. I am
very lucky to have a great family and get along really well with
all of my siblings. It’s important to me to communicate with all
of them often and stay updated on what they are all up to. It
has been really cool to become friends with my siblings as
adults, and to reflect on how our relationships have changed
since we were younger. My oldest brother is ten years older than
me, so growing up we did not have much in common. Now, he has a
one-year old son and I have loved being an aunt and their
favorite babysitter😉
Bhakti Yoga
My version of Bhakti yoga is reading. I have always loved to
read, and can relate it to yoga philosophy and see the
connection to the recent chapters we read in the Road Signs
book. Yoga requires a commitment to diving deeper and acquiring
more knowledge, and I believe that reading is serving my
intellect by opening my mind and allowing me to take on a
different perspective. I honor this commitment by implementing
reading as a ritual and part of my daily routine.
Jnana Yoga
My jnana yoga has to do with the pillar of detachment to
material things, or vairagya. I think society today encourages
us to get caught up in acquiring the next best thing, and always
chasing the high of having what’s new and trendy. This cycle
loses sight of what is actually valuable; the person that you
are and the relationships you have. There is a mantra that I
like - “everything you need is within you”. When I begin to seek
external validation, or find myself placing value in material
things, this mantra is a great reminder that what truly matters
in the world is who you are. Material items are impermanent and
fleeting, and intellect, character, and compassion are far more
worthy pursuits.
Raja Yoga
Initially, learning about the postures and alignment are what
led me to explore the path of YTT. However, after the info
session and our first immersion weekend, I realized that this
journey involves far more than the physical aspect of yoga. I
think that the culmination of physical, spiritual, emotional,
and mental growth that occurs throughout YTT is what makes it
royal in my mind. YTT is truly a transformational journey that
provides a path towards a greater understanding and appreciation
of yoga. It challenges me to think deeply about myself, question
my beliefs and explore beyond my comfort zone.
[/quote]
Olivia,
Connecting with your brothers through Karma yoga is wonderful
as it allows you all to keep lines of communication open,
especially when there is a significant age gap. Having a nephew
helps too, and being an active aunt contributes to the
upbringing of the little one. You'll have a strong impact on
him.
For Bhakti, reading as a devotional practice requires
knowledge, but you're making a conscious effort to exercise the
brain, keeping it in optimal health. I'm glad you're taking the
book and grasping the message Dr. Goldberg is conveying.
With regards to Jnana yoga, I couldn't agree with you more, and
many people will eventually have the realization as you do if
they haven't already. We are definitely conditioned to chase the
next best thing rather than value what we already have. When you
recite, everything you have is already within you. Indeed
materials are fleeting, but if we can cultivate an appreciation
of ourselves and our character, it's everlasting.
YTT is a great example of Raja yoga, utilizing everything we
learn from the program and applying it to our daily lives off
the mat. We are so glad you're taking away so much information
from this, exploring your comfort zone, and appreciating yoga
from many view points.
#Post#: 67--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: erin_kelly Date: September 29, 2022, 2:49 pm
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My conscious karma yoga is being a kind person and caring for
others and I believe my subcuois is similar. Similar to Erin C.
I also am an empath. I feel deeply for others and try my best to
spread positivity and kindness. I often do acts of kindness
without looking for anything in return. Most people are dealing
with their own stuff so I always try to be kind to others.
My bhakti yoga is listening to music. Music calms me and helps
me feel peace. Whenever I feel myself getting stressed or
anxious I turn on my favorite song and just focus on that. It
truly helps me get out of my head and enjoy something.
My area of Jnana yoga would be through the bible for sharing
paths of wisdom through sacred texts.
My YTT journey is helping me towards my personal path of
enlightenment. Since losing my Dad I have been on a search for
more meaning and to find my most authentic self. Doing YTT has
helped me feel ready to dive deeper spiritually.
#Post#: 222--------------------------------------------------
Re: The Fab Four Responses
By: yogasimplifiedmethod Date: November 28, 2022, 12:44 pm
---------------------------------------------------------
[quote author=erin_kelly link=topic=4.msg67#msg67
date=1664480963]
My conscious karma yoga is being a kind person and caring for
others and I believe my subcuois is similar. Similar to Erin C.
I also am an empath. I feel deeply for others and try my best to
spread positivity and kindness. I often do acts of kindness
without looking for anything in return. Most people are dealing
with their own stuff so I always try to be kind to others.
My bhakti yoga is listening to music. Music calms me and helps
me feel peace. Whenever I feel myself getting stressed or
anxious I turn on my favorite song and just focus on that. It
truly helps me get out of my head and enjoy something.
My area of Jnana yoga would be through the bible for sharing
paths of wisdom through sacred texts.
My YTT journey is helping me towards my personal path of
enlightenment. Since losing my Dad I have been on a search for
more meaning and to find my most authentic self. Doing YTT has
helped me feel ready to dive deeper spiritually.
[/quote]
You're a natural empath and doing acts of kindness is definitely
karma yoga. I love how you use music and the bible for devotion
and wisdom along with going through YTT for a visceral
connection to spirituality.
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