Last month, the essence of our practice was steady (sthira) and comfortable (sukha). We explored a balancing act between strength & flexibility, masculine & feminine, intuition & reason. Discovered our capacities to remain gentle and sensitive to our body’s signals even when the practice is strong and energetic. Cultivated a balance in our habitual inclinations with a sensitive understanding of what best serves us in the present moment.
In the month of May, we add a layer and connect to our physical and mental strength through tenacity, perseverance, and maintaining an unwavering focus on bettering ourselves no matter how challenging it can get.
In yoga there is a set of actions and attitudes practiced to achieve liberation from suffering and improve our connection with the outside world; this is known as Niyamas.
Tapas is one of the niyamas – it translates as heat and refers to the burning-off of impurities. This niyama is about going against the grain of habit and complacency and veering away from taking the easy route.
Tapas put into practice is the commitment to face challenges, and a spiritual determination not to give into desires, emotions, and any other influences that move us away from our best self. It is putting in the work of being the best version of ourselves, a practice of self-discipline, but not self-torture.
Use this month’s focus like a compass, to keep us pointed towards our true north, our truest nature.
To rid the body of toxins and our minds & hearts of impurities.