The
Self (Atman), when in reference to Yoga, is
usually written with a large ‘S’, as it is a reference to the
soul, in its pure intrinsic nature. We do not have a soul, as we are
a soul that is a solo zone of Absolute Sentient Power, or the
life-force without which we would have no form and no individuation.
In general, mankind can be described as fallen, that is fallen into
identification with the limitations of his life and the situation
within which he finds himself, it is then appropriate to refer to
this level of self, written with a small ‘s’.
The
Yogi is in essence a visionary and works to discover his true nature
and transcend the limitations of his lower ego self, and then
restructure himself, guided by his own inner voice of light and
wisdom. This means discovering your Guru which is on the inside and
not outside.
The
Eight Limbs of Yoga are a bit like a tree with its branches reaching
up toward the light and ever increasing levels of refinement and
detachment; this means a genuine interest in the freedom afforded by
spirit, which is a bit like getting out of jail after being held in
by the limitations of the world of time. How often have you met
people who have told you that they have had a hell of a time, or used
words of a similar import when describing their life situation?
That
famous line in the Star Wars films, ‘May the Force be with you’
is a reference to that ubiquitous power that flows through life,
giving the edge and support to all who are prepared and able to work
with it. The refinement and transformation needed is the work of the
Yogi, who must remain continually watchful, clearing away the fog of
delusion from his own mind and awakening to the spirit within.
To
quote: There are two birds, two sweet friends, who dwell on the
self-same tree. The one eats the fruits thereof, and the other looks
on in silence, (Mundaka Upanishad).
The first is the human soul who, resting on that tree, though active,
feels sad in his unwisdom. But on beholding the power and glory of
the higher spirit, he becomes free from sorrow.
The
lower bird tempted by the fruit on the tree is reminiscent of the
story of Adam and Eve who tempted by the fruit, were drawn out into
worldliness and prodigality, seeking knowledge of good and evil. This
drew them away from the clear light of spirit, and their vision
became clouded, and their body, a body of untruth, and death a
necessity, which in a sense is an act of mercy as it provides the
opportunity for the descendents of Adam to return back to the clear
light of spirit.
The
Self in the highest sense of the word, refers to the clarity that
lays within, untrammelled and free of the distortions of the world of
time, and Yoga the means by which we are able to re-unite with our
spiritual origins.
Patanjali’s
advice and definition was simple and direct with his sutra, “Yoga
is controlling the activities of the mind”. More recent Philosophy
teachers had other ways of promoting Self awareness in their
students. For example G.T.Gurdjieff at his retreat in Fontenbleau
would shout ‘Stop’, at which command, his followers would freeze,
stop what they were doing and observe what their thinking, feeling
and intention was in that moment…this is a useful exercise that we
could all learn to practise, as it is surprising how often the lower
self is in control at any given moment.
Learning
to grow in Self knowledge is Atman Yoga, whether practising asana,
teaching a Yoga class or meditating, and is about developing Self
Response-ability, that is the ability to respond, guided by the
wisdom that lies within.
