Your True Source of Power

The word “anga” means limb, and it shows up in poses like bhujangasana and in philosophical discussion.

Specifically, I’m thinking of the distinction between bahir-anga, the outer-limbs of practice, and antar-anga, the inner-limbs of practice. Examples of outer limbs include ethical precepts and asana.

In its quest for existential knowledge, the yoga tradition left no stone unturned, turning inward in pursuit of lasting happiness amidst a transient and ever-changing world.

Fundamentally, our life experience occurs within.  It’s not so much that we experience the world, but rather, we experience our own energy in reaction to outer stimulus. It’s not the parking ticket that causes suffering; rather, it’s our reaction to it.

There is another way….

This is where the antar-anga, inner-limbs, come into play.  Rather than try to coerce the world into conforming to our expectations, the yogis sought to purify the inner landscape, strengthening self-understanding and resilience to overcome the instinct to germinate sorrow.

In about 200 words, this is just a sketch of this major tenet of yoga practice. Antar-anga (inner-limbs) is the topic for our September Master Class. 

And you, dear friend, are warmly invited.