Yoga Off the Mat: Philosophy for Daily Life

Ever wonder why we dwell on negative thoughts? It's a survival instinct. The good news is that through yogic practices, we can retrain our mind to respond calmly to difficult situations instead of reacting.

Here are the signs of a Pitta dosha disturbance, according to Ayurveda. On a mental level, you might feel aggressive and competitive. On an emotional level, you might experience anger and jealousy.

Winter is the season of Kapha accumulation, which can make us feel slow. Ayurveda's Ritucharya (seasonal routine) suggests this is a great time for intense exercise and building up the body to stay healthy all year.

There are many myths that stop people from trying yoga. You don't need to be flexible, vegetarian, or "perfect" to start. This practice meets you exactly where you are.

'Raag' is one of the five Kleshas (causes of suffering) from the Yoga Sutras. It refers to attachment to things that bring pleasure. A good prompt for reflection: Does this attachment bring me joy or sorrow?

'Asmita' or ego is another Klesha. It is the identification with our body, mind, and intellect. A prompt for reflection: What labels do I identify with, and how strongly?

'Dwesha' is the Klesha of aversion towards things that bring pain. A reflection prompt: When in a challenging situation, how do I respond? Can I see it as an opportunity for growth?

'Avidya' or ignorance is the root Klesha, mistaking the transient for the eternal. A prompt for reflection: How often do I act out of prejudice or bias?

This exercise of reflecting on the Kleshas helps raise our consciousness. By noticing our trigger points and reactions, we can eventually reach a place where we are not swayed by them.