I have learned to push through pain, but have had a hard time learning to love cold showers. Some kinds of transformation just aren't that important to me! I ordered the Shakti mat, so I'll report back after I give it a try.
For me, extremes are not necessary for transformation, only consistent dedication. Although, for some, extremes may be the perfect way, for most, moderation is the way. Most importantly, recognizing when I’m veering off the path, to gently come back without chastising, and accepting, that too is the path. Thanks Ilona, Mr. Bharati is an example when someone does something extremely different it catches the attention of others and inspires them to question themselves and perhaps do something they resonate with to improve themselves. I value the use of my arm. Ha ha ha. Interesting story. 🙏
Life itself is tapas, especially as we age and gradually go through physical changes we would rather now have to endure, but do as well as we can…because we must.
I have learned to embrace the tapas and use them as this Sanskrit words implies…as spiritual austerities whose purpose is to help me evolve spiritually. It is not enough just to endure them stoicly without complaint, while hoping we will get through them or they will just go away as the days go by.
All tapas are bringing me something that i need to learn or grow, so its wise to maintain a cheerful and determined attitude.
I embrace all that comes into my life as an opportunity for spiritual enhancement.
It changes everything…my mental assessment, my beliefs and my emotional response when i remember to look for the meaning and higher purpose of my tapas, my challenges and the hard stuff which pushes me to find answers and make changes.
I am grateful, for I live knowing everything is temporary and that “this too shall pass.”
This allows me to greet tapas, even the really really hard ones, with a smile as I choose to love this life I still have to live for another day.
Thank you for your newsletter which is a ray of sunshine in this stormy world!
I appreciate you breaking this down further for us. I'm digesting what I've learned back in yoga teacher training, and your explanation really brings tapas home for me. I like what you said about aging being tapas, because it's a big one for me now. Thanks for reading and your insightful comment.
We are kindred spirits to be sure and i extend my hand in recognition and friendship to you…
Your post inspired to write a new story about life’s tapas and how to greet them with a smile and use them for a higher purpose.
I will publish it in my newsletter “The Dawning Light” in tomorrow’s edition(Tuesday May16, 2023)…which can be found at thedawninglight.substack.com…
I am delighted to have found you and am now a grateful subscriber!
Shine on! For me, and i believe for you, life is a wonderful journey of spiritual growth and service to the world ….which needs all the wisdom and Love we have to share now more than ever before!
I want to to get one of those mats, too! I had the opportunity to take cold showers for a long weekend when our water heater broke. I am not a fan and was thrilled when it was fixed.
I have learned to push through pain, but have had a hard time learning to love cold showers. Some kinds of transformation just aren't that important to me! I ordered the Shakti mat, so I'll report back after I give it a try.
Can't wait to hear!
For me, extremes are not necessary for transformation, only consistent dedication. Although, for some, extremes may be the perfect way, for most, moderation is the way. Most importantly, recognizing when I’m veering off the path, to gently come back without chastising, and accepting, that too is the path. Thanks Ilona, Mr. Bharati is an example when someone does something extremely different it catches the attention of others and inspires them to question themselves and perhaps do something they resonate with to improve themselves. I value the use of my arm. Ha ha ha. Interesting story. 🙏
Nama Shivaiya dear one…
Life itself is tapas, especially as we age and gradually go through physical changes we would rather now have to endure, but do as well as we can…because we must.
I have learned to embrace the tapas and use them as this Sanskrit words implies…as spiritual austerities whose purpose is to help me evolve spiritually. It is not enough just to endure them stoicly without complaint, while hoping we will get through them or they will just go away as the days go by.
All tapas are bringing me something that i need to learn or grow, so its wise to maintain a cheerful and determined attitude.
I embrace all that comes into my life as an opportunity for spiritual enhancement.
It changes everything…my mental assessment, my beliefs and my emotional response when i remember to look for the meaning and higher purpose of my tapas, my challenges and the hard stuff which pushes me to find answers and make changes.
I am grateful, for I live knowing everything is temporary and that “this too shall pass.”
This allows me to greet tapas, even the really really hard ones, with a smile as I choose to love this life I still have to live for another day.
Thank you for your newsletter which is a ray of sunshine in this stormy world!
I appreciate you breaking this down further for us. I'm digesting what I've learned back in yoga teacher training, and your explanation really brings tapas home for me. I like what you said about aging being tapas, because it's a big one for me now. Thanks for reading and your insightful comment.
Thank you dear one for the sweet response!
We are kindred spirits to be sure and i extend my hand in recognition and friendship to you…
Your post inspired to write a new story about life’s tapas and how to greet them with a smile and use them for a higher purpose.
I will publish it in my newsletter “The Dawning Light” in tomorrow’s edition(Tuesday May16, 2023)…which can be found at thedawninglight.substack.com…
I am delighted to have found you and am now a grateful subscriber!
Shine on! For me, and i believe for you, life is a wonderful journey of spiritual growth and service to the world ….which needs all the wisdom and Love we have to share now more than ever before!
I'm subscribed. Can't wait to read it!
I want to to get one of those mats, too! I had the opportunity to take cold showers for a long weekend when our water heater broke. I am not a fan and was thrilled when it was fixed.
Cold showers are awful! Here is the link for the one I bought https://shaktimat.com/products/shakti-mat-original-dusty-pink?variant=39246908293204