I love to weave in ancient wisdom into my yoga classes. We have recently been looking at Asteya, one of the yamas and how it applies on and off the mat, bringing a sense of respect and abundance into our everyday routines.
Understanding Asteya:
Asteya is not just about physical theft; it’s about respecting what belongs to others. It’s about appreciating the time, energy, possessions, and experiences that people hold dear. Asteya teaches us to be content with what we have and to let go of the desire to take what isn’t freely given.
On the Mat:
When we step onto our yoga mats, Asteya encourages us to let go of comparisons and competition. It reminds us that each of us has our own unique journey and progress to celebrate. Instead of stealing the joy or progress of others, we learn to honor our own path and be grateful for the present moment.
Asteya on the mat also means listening to our bodies and practicing self-care. It reminds us not to push ourselves beyond our limits or neglect the rest and recovery our bodies need. By respecting our boundaries, we create a sustainable and compassionate practice.
Off the Mat:
Asteya extends beyond our yoga practice and becomes a way of living. In our modern lives, it calls us to examine how we interact with others and the world around us. In a world driven by comparison and consumerism, Asteya reminds us to be mindful of our actions and choices.
In our relationships, Asteya encourages us to respect the time, energy, and boundaries of others. It means truly listening and being present, rather than stealing attention or seeking constant validation. By honoring the experiences and perspectives of those around us, we foster genuine connections.
Asteya also urges us to consider our impact on the environment. By consuming mindfully, reducing waste, reusing, recycling, and supporting sustainable practices, we avoid stealing resources from future generations and contribute to the well-being of our planet.
Practising Asteya:
Incorporating Asteya into our modern lifestyles requires self-reflection and conscious effort. Here are some practical ways we can cultivate Asteya both on and off the mat:
- Embrace Gratitude and Contentment: Focus on appreciating what we already have, rather than constantly seeking more. Cultivate contentment and celebrate the abundance in our lives.
- Mindful Consumption: Pause and reflect before making purchases. Ask ourselves if we genuinely need something or if we’re seeking fulfillment through material possessions. Choose sustainable and ethical options whenever possible.
- Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of others’ time, energy, and personal space. Truly listen and give them the space to express themselves. Avoid stealing attention or dominating conversations.
- Sustainable Living: Adopt eco-friendly habits by reducing waste, conserving resources, and supporting sustainable initiatives. Opt for reusable products, minimize single-use items, and recycle responsibly.
- Self-Care and Balance: Prioritise self-care and respect our own boundaries. Give ourselves the rest and rejuvenation we need to maintain balance in our lives.
Asteya, the practice of non-stealing, offers us a beautiful way to live with respect and abundance on and off the yoga mat. By embracing gratitude, respecting boundaries, and making mindful choices, we create a world where everyone’s experiences and resources are valued. Let’s cultivate Asteya in our everyday lives and spread a sense of respect, gratitude, and abundance wherever we go!
Hope you can join me for vinyasa and yin yoga classes in Rugby!