Strolling through the airport this morning I couldn't help but think of one of the Yamas, a Sanskrit word, literally meaning "restraints." The Yamas translate into our modern lives both on our mats and off of our mats. Asteya is the gem of non-stealing, which translates into not stealing objects, time, relationships, the future, integrity, etc. We have the ability to convert this ancient principal into our day to day lives. Here's a modern day twist:
Once upon a time, a young woman and her aunt traveled to a far off land to enjoy the company of family and friends for a beautiful wedding celebration. As their plane touched down, their excitement for this new journey was met with chaos and hustle. Everyone appeared to be in a hurry...to catch their next plane, to connect with their electronic devices, to grab a coffee, or to simply be swept away in thought. The pair exited the plane and began their travel towards the shuttle. One man bumped into the pair, not even noticing that he had almost caused a minor fumble in their journey. They briefly paused to take in their environment. People were living their lives in this hub of activity. Babies were crying, people were dashing, and all the while, the two patiently watched and waited. Tuning into their internal settings.
The airport extended for many miles and in an effort to aid in their journey they noticed an electronic walkway. One side was marked "walk" while the other was marked "stand." They noticed various people choosing a side to weave in and out of. Pausing for a moment, noticing the tiredness in their legs they opted to "keep up" with their counterparts, as opposed to choosing the "stand" lane. Motoring down the walkway they grew tired, but struggled to switch lanes, as most everyone else was still walking.
This small story illustrates a core concept of Asteya. One of the various meanings of this gem is to "not steal from ourselves." To drop the comparisons of the noisy external world and drop into the heart of our internal world. When I think of this gem, I think of the word compassion, which can be defined as "a tender feeling." This tender feeling allows us to descend into our inner most needs. How often do we "steal" from ourselves by ignoring this still small voice inside, by dashing into the future, or animating our past? When we act from a space of authenticity we bless the Earth with our presence.
As you move through your week, notice how you can pause and tune into your needs and desires. The beautiful tapestry of your life is ever evolving and affecting the current of Asteya. Curiously invite yourself to notice how you honor your need to walk or stand.
May you Sweetly Seek
In Gratitude
Sarah :)
Once upon a time, a young woman and her aunt traveled to a far off land to enjoy the company of family and friends for a beautiful wedding celebration. As their plane touched down, their excitement for this new journey was met with chaos and hustle. Everyone appeared to be in a hurry...to catch their next plane, to connect with their electronic devices, to grab a coffee, or to simply be swept away in thought. The pair exited the plane and began their travel towards the shuttle. One man bumped into the pair, not even noticing that he had almost caused a minor fumble in their journey. They briefly paused to take in their environment. People were living their lives in this hub of activity. Babies were crying, people were dashing, and all the while, the two patiently watched and waited. Tuning into their internal settings.
The airport extended for many miles and in an effort to aid in their journey they noticed an electronic walkway. One side was marked "walk" while the other was marked "stand." They noticed various people choosing a side to weave in and out of. Pausing for a moment, noticing the tiredness in their legs they opted to "keep up" with their counterparts, as opposed to choosing the "stand" lane. Motoring down the walkway they grew tired, but struggled to switch lanes, as most everyone else was still walking.
This small story illustrates a core concept of Asteya. One of the various meanings of this gem is to "not steal from ourselves." To drop the comparisons of the noisy external world and drop into the heart of our internal world. When I think of this gem, I think of the word compassion, which can be defined as "a tender feeling." This tender feeling allows us to descend into our inner most needs. How often do we "steal" from ourselves by ignoring this still small voice inside, by dashing into the future, or animating our past? When we act from a space of authenticity we bless the Earth with our presence.
As you move through your week, notice how you can pause and tune into your needs and desires. The beautiful tapestry of your life is ever evolving and affecting the current of Asteya. Curiously invite yourself to notice how you honor your need to walk or stand.
May you Sweetly Seek
In Gratitude
Sarah :)
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