The Three Legged Stool
Yogic Action: Enthusiasm, Self-Awareness, and Humility
As both a student and teacher of yoga, the ancient text known as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali has grown to be not only a guide for studying these wisdom teachings, but also a trusted companion for doing life. Widely regarded as the authoritative text on yoga, the Sutras are not limited to contemplative practice on the mat; rather, they are meant to practiced and put to the test in daily life, at home and work, as a partner, parent, friend, and whichever other hat I might be wearing in the moment. The Sutras have traditionally been presented as a guide for refining the mind so one can attain the most refined states of concentration and focus. This focus has a goal: it carves a pathway to clearer perception and pure awareness of the Self, which ultimately results in freedom from suffering.
Although it sounds like a lofty goal, there is boundless beauty in the simplicity of these verses. In the first verse of the second chapter, the author offers us the practice of yoga-in-action. Yogic action, known as kriya yoga.
tapah-svadhyayesvara-pranidhanani kriya-yogah
My experience with this verse is that it might possibly be the most practical teaching about yoga. Translated, it states that yogic action requires the cultivation of three important practices: enthusiasm, self-awareness, and humility. I like to think of these practices and their qualities as three legs of a stool. The three legged stool of yogic action is an exercise in balance. The relationship each of the legs maintains with one another is essential for the stability and function of the stool. Similarly, successful yogic action requires its three legs of enthusiasm, self-awareness, and humility to remain harmonized with each other.
To be on the path of yoga means much, much more than shape-making on the mat. It requires informed and well-intended action outlined by the three legs:
Tapas: Tapas is the heat that purifies. It is the burning enthusiasm for my yoga practice that organically evolves into joyful discipline and personal responsibility. For me, it is the commitment to stay in the pause between a feeling and a reaction, and the effort to recommit to this pause, again and again. It is the shimmering light and simmering heat of every single choice that grows my capacity to ride the waves of life, especially the uncomfortable, sometimes disruptive ripples of change. It is the inner devotion to live a pure and wholesome life.
Svadhyaya: Svadhyaya is the reflective mirror of intelligence and self-awareness. It is the ability to see the truth of myself through study - of sacred texts with a qualified teacher, of life, and through meditation and self- reflection. It is honest self-awareness, born from the desire to understand life and the Self. Rather than the intellectuality of the mind, it is the assurance of the heart, that serves as a reminder that I am on the right path and the right track, especially when the yogic path tests me through life’s tricky challenges.
Ishvara Pranidhana: is the refuge. It is often understood as devotion to Higher Power, relinquishing the illusion of control, or surrendering to the essence of life. The willing release of the illusion of control cultivates humility, which encourages honesty, patience, and faith - in myself as I am and the word as it is. It is what helps me discern between what can and cannot be changed so that I may practice acceptance and utilize my energy intelligently. It is what assists me in seeing the perfection of life, so that I can couple sincere intention with wholehearted action.
This tripod of enthusiasm, intelligence, and humility provides a stable base for both inner and outer explorations. When combined, these three create actions that are vibrant, meaningful and joyful. The transformative power of yogic action lies in balancing these three legs, because of if one of the three pillars is missing, instability develops.
Discipline without self-awareness can be harmful. Effort without a commitment to a larger purpose is rather pointless and can lead to burnout. Self-reflection without action is nothing more than navel gazing. Self-reflection without a connection to something bigger than ourselves creates self-absorption. And devotion without a sense of self-responsibility and a clear vision of the real situation of our daily lives is spiritual bypassing.
Yogic action is a three legged stool, and we need all three pillars to support navigating life and the spiritual path, and especially when we need the faith and courage to rise if ever we stumble or doubt.
A Contemplation for You:
Where does the energy and strength to do hard things come from?
Where does your energy and strength to do hard things come from? Where are you established in discipline? Where are you able to take responsibility and put forth consistent effort?
What helps you see clearly (your thoughts, feelings, behaviors, situations?) Where are you established in honest self-awareness?
Where do you find refuge and comfort? What do you have faith in? Where are you established in devotion? What is the larger vision of life that helps you keep things in perspective?
If you are curious about these teachings and wish to study further, consider exploring the programs of our school, where we specialize in transformational education that is grounded in the ancient teachings of yoga. And if you have ever wanted to support others in their personal discovery of these teachings, our 200hr Yoga Teacher Training Program beautifully marries wisdom and method, science and awareness. The journey begins in October!