A Modern Guide to the Yamas: How to Practice Satya
This is part three of How to Practice the Five Yamas: A Modern Guide to a Balanced Life.
Satya (truthfulness)
Being honest with yourself and others
Beyond simply “not lying,” practicing satya means living in a way that aligns with your highest truth. It’s about being honest with yourself, honest with others, and refraining from judgment — making sure that you speak and act with thought and intention (not just saying whatever is on your mind). “It’s about being impeccable with your words and actions,” says Alo Moves instructor Naya Rappaport. “We all go through life viewing from a different lens. There are many paths to that same destination, but it’s important to understand that how you view things are not how others are going to view them, and that’s OK. Everyone has their own truth.”
Here’s how to practice satya on and off the mat:
On the mat:
Silently repeat the mantra “I am truth.”
Ask yourself why you practice. Is it to feel better in your body? To get stronger? To manage stress? Take a look at what prevents you from getting on the mat and remind yourself of your intention for practicing every day.
Shift from judgment to observation. Rather than filling your head with phrases like “I’m not good enough at yoga” or “I’ll never be able to do X pose,” see the reality for what it truly is — you just need practice. We all do. That’s why it’s called yoga practice. No one is better than you because they can do a certain pose. This kind of negative thinking can cloud your mind and prevent you from living out your journey and your practice. Remember: we all started somewhere!
Don’t ignore the truths your body speaks. If you’re feeling fatigued, you’re caring for an injury, or you get an inkling that you shouldn’t push yourself, don’t allow yourself to go further than you are able to. Give yourself rest or Child’s Pose when you need it. Pushing past your limitations in an unhealthy way can lead to injury down the line.
In your life:
Make sure that you speak with kindness and intention. According to a Sufi saying, you should allow your words to pass through three gates: 1) Is it true? 2) Is it necessary? 3) Is it kind?
Ask yourself if you’re living your most authentic life. What is your true purpose? And what’s preventing you from being your most genuine self? Rechart your course and create a plan of action to set yourself on the path to living your best, most authentic life (the ultimate freedom).
Don’t bury your thoughts or feelings when they arise. In an effort to avoid conflict or appease others, sometimes we hold back what we’re thinking or feeling. Speak up for yourself when your voice needs to be heard.
Want to put it into practice? Flow with Naya in her Satya: Truth yoga class on Alo Moves.
CONTINUE READING…
Let’s continue with the third yama, asteya. Click here to read A Modern Guide to the Yamas: How to Practice Asteya.