Nature’s Wisdom
Just as there are necessary functions in our bodies that do not require our conscious participation, there is also a similar natural intelligence that regulates the planet, the universe and beyond. Science attempts to define and categorize through classification, examination and formula. While philosophy offers mythology, symbolism and sacred archetypes to understand and express the complexity of the natural world. Both have purpose and accuracy, and as such both have evolved and expanded over millennia.
On all relative subjects there is continuous debate and diverse perspective. However it is difficult to ignore the profound truths of ancient, yet highly advanced cultures and their apparent harmonization to, and integration with, a timeless and universal wisdom. Rich traditions passed down by priests/priestesses, shamans, sages and oracles, those in communication with a subtle yet omnipresent cosmic force. Many have attempted to define or even name this force, and strangely these attempts have been and continue to be a source of great conflict and debate. Still, the fact remains, it is an extraordinary, otherworldly stream of consciousness which many consider unknowable to the thinking mind. A power which is not separate from us, but which awaits our alignment with it, our uncovering of the truth through faithful devotion and remembrance. What I find most fascinating about the current time is how science and technology is surging ahead at a pace that seems to multiply beyond conception. Yet so many of us are shifting our gaze back to ancient, traditional ways as a means to find peace, well being and connection to ourselves as well as each other. Perhaps the approach to aligning with the wisdom that has always been within us, and around us, is all we need to gracefully navigate existence and liberate ourselves from illusion, condition and fear.
Although not exclusively, Yoga and its many modalities is a path that many of us have chosen for a multitude of purposes from fitness, to mindfulness, transformation, authentic connection and deep healing. I believe that even the most skeptical of practitioners has at some point experienced a subtle or energetic presence within their practice. A living force, or resonant wave that vibrates and penetrates our beingness. Dating back to 1500 BCE the Hindu Vedas presented rich knowledge of effective ways of being in the world, ways in harmony with the universe. At the root of this knowledge was reverence and ritual dedicated to the elements, the profound gifts of the natural world, as well as the gods and goddesses who personified these broad and contrasting energies. Although for some the wisdom of the Vedas is not an integral part of their Yoga practice, the Vedas are in fact roots of modern Yoga. A thread within the tapestry of unraveling the supreme self. Ultimately, there are five great elements (Pancha Maha Bhutas), Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Ether(space). Each with its own unique vibration and purpose and all of which are equally necessary to the balanced unfolding of the microcosm and the macrocosm.
The origin of what we know today as Asana Yoga(postural), aside from the literal translation(seat), referring to seated meditation, is Hatha Yoga, created by the Tantrikas in the 14th century CE as referenced in the “Hatha Yoga Pradipika” and the “Shiva Samhita”. These Tantra Yogis were a unique and progressive group, eager to acknowledge and present the body as a sacred temple in itself. Prior to this the pathway to enlightenment was believed to be through transcendence of the body and in truth all that was material. The practices presented by these Tantrikas were a means to purify the body and clear the energetic pathways that Prana(vital life force) circulates through. Through disciplined care and preservation of the body, a divine gift, one could attain union with the infinite and the highest expression of the self here on earth. From this perspective, the body as well as the living force that flows through it is an altar, a sanctuary within, heaven embodied in matter. The simplicity is penetrating, the intelligence of nature exists here and now, within us. Since conception and before thought, we have nature’s wisdom, all we need to thrive and flourish beyond limitation. Through living the full spectrum of the practice with unwavering devotion and commitment, we align with our fullest potential.
These notions are further reinforced by both Ayurvedic medicine and Vedic Astrology, ancient systems which are the oldest forms of their kind in history. Generally speaking, with Ayurveda, a physician seeks to achieve and promote a harmonious elemental balance in the patient specific to their Dosha or dominant constitutional makeup. Thus, optimum health is achieved through complementary and contrasting nutrition, supplement, lifestyle and practice, specific to seasonal and life cycles. Once more the insight of aligning with the ever changing rhythms of nature is promoted in an effort to steer away from excess and deficiency, qualities elementally out of balance. Within Vedic Astrology, the symbolism of the signs, planets and houses all fall within elemental categories. Potential personality traits, life pursuits, as well as gifts and shortcomings of the individual’s horoscope all arise from the complex interweaving of natural forces relative to their own karma and dharma in this incarnation. Archetypes of the celestial world offered as tools to uncover purpose and meaning in this world and beyond.
Across multiple modalities, stemming from a single yet far reaching source, the tree of Yoga and its many limbs are compelling and magnetizing pathways to guide us home to the nature that is in fact our true nature. As you reflect on this possibility, this potential, shift your gaze inward as you encompass the movement of wind within the oceanic texture and rhythm of your breath. Feel your roots nourished by the fertile soil beneath as the divine spark, the sacred fire penetrates your being. All within the ever spiraling Mandala of experience, the container of all that ever was and all that ever will be.
- Namaste
Stay tuned for part 2 “Living the Practice”