As we delve deeper into the practice of yoga, we find that the mind-body discipline prescribes an entire way of life; going far beyond just a systematic exercise aimed at physical fitness and wellbeing. Yoga classes in Mumbai tend to be geared mostly towards the physical fitness aspect of yoga, and will usually not introduce you to yogic concepts such as ‘bhaav’ or the ‘bhavana’ we had discussed earlier. I would like to explore yet another of these concepts today.
Bhaav – negative and positive attitudes
Our bhaav or our attitude impacts much else in life: our ability to think, our state of mind, emotional responses, etc. Yogic thinking contemplates four positive attitudes and their corresponding negative forms:
(a) relating to duty: dharma and adharma
(b) relating to knowledge: gyaan and agyaan,
(c) relating to detachment: vairagya and avairagya
(d) relating to achievement: aishwarya and anaishwarya bhaav
What are dharma and gyaan bhaav?
Simply put, dharma is about performing one’s duty – to family, friends, our professional spheres, society and to the environment around us. So long as you’re able to identify where you duty lies and you proceed towards performing that duty conscientiously and to the best of your ability, you know that you’re on the path of dharma. It is also important to maintain a balance between one’s duty to oneself and others; duty to family and to work, and to work out the importance of each on a priority basis. Proper prioritization of one’s duties creates a healthy life balance and prevents stress and anxiety.
Gyaan bhaav refers to the attitude of learning and seeking knowledge. This knowledge refers not only to outer knowledge – book learning of facts, general awareness about the news and scientific developments and so on, but also self awareness. Becoming aware of our own strengths and weaknesses, faults and talents is a part of this journey of gaining knowledge. Self knowledge combined with external learning gives us the ability to concentrate on our strengths to reach our optimal potential.
Applying dharma and gyaan bhaav to the practice of yoga
As I always say, the guidelines set down by the yogis for the practice of yoga apply to life itself. They are about creating a complete set of values for life; with regard to our personal relationships, professional abilities, social interactions as well as the all too important relationship we have with ourselves.
So if the right attitude will help you understand your physical abilities and limitations with regard to your yoga class experience, these same attitudes will help you give your best to your personal and professional life as well. Give thought to and prioritize what is important in your life – that is knowledge. Then do your duty to the best of your ability – that is your dharma.
It is wonderful isn’t it; how the seekers of spiritual knowledge and awareness were able to simplify the complexities of life for us via these philosophies? When applied to our own lives, these help us live happier lives with fewer stresses and anxieties.