Satya – Truthfulness

Is the truth out there?

While we may have been drawn into the idea that “the truth is out there” by certain teachings (or X-Files), with yoga we come a little closer. Literally. By looking within.

The second Yama, Satya, is about the truth that we are, the truth that we seek and the truth that we speak. When seen as a restraint, it’s about not speaking anything opposite of truth. (Side note… as we do this we must still keep in mind Ahimsa first.) When seen in a personal perspective, it would suggest who we authentically are. Personal truth. When seen in a larger view, ultimate truth may be revealed. Our truth or The Truth.

You can’t handle the truth!

Many of us seem to be seeking or searching and so often this search is external until we realize what turning inward can reveal. When we slow down the busyness and the onslaught of external distractions, much can be discovered or unearthed. In stillness we often find truth.

Another phrase, popularized by the movie A Few Good Men, points at the truth as a hard pill to swallow. “You can’t handle the truth!” may beg the question…. why not? If we haven’t seen the way we numb ourselves, we may have noticed the way others do. Is it the power behind truth that strikes fear?

What is your truth? What is a larger truth you have come across? Have you seen a truth change? If so, was it actually truth?

Truth or opinion? Which do you subscribe to?

Much of the time what we consider our truth, can often be described more accurately as an opinion. On the yoga mat, we may think it’s true that we’re not strong, not flexible, not good at balancing. I’d wager to say (because I’ve seen it happen many times) that what we think is true may become so for us, but if we hold it as an opinion, we can see it change. Take the words “I can’t” for example. If you want that to be your truth, keep saying it. However, if you realize the distaste those two words can bring and would like to change it, at least add the word “yet” to the end and see what happens.

As with any Yama, Satya, is meant to benefit our practice and our life. Practicing truthfulness may be just as challenging as practicing a new posture. Go easy on yourself. Notice where you find truth. Your head or your heart? When both agree, subscribe to that :) Be wary of the part of your mind that subscribes to fear and judgment based on the past or other opinions.

Another challenge… practice Satya for a week or two, both on and off your mat. Then email me at challenge@kushalayoga.com and share your insights. The truth is both out there and in here. Perhaps we can share your truth as another blog post ;)

Namaste,
Alissa