We have dedicated our Mindful Movement with Maria blog/vlog to the exploration of the yamas and niyamas in recovery. Through mindful movement, breath and meditation, each month you will have an opportunity to learn about these ethical yogic guidelines or moral codes. This month we work with the concept of SATYA or truthfulness.
Translation: Sat is translated as “reality” or “being” and “ya” is translated as advancing, supporting, or sustaining. Together, these words directly translate into “that which supports, sustains and advances reality" and literally mean "that which is true, actual, real, genuine, trustworthy, valid.”
What it is
At its core, satya is an ethical concept about truthfulness. It is a virtue that is embodied when one nurtures and reveals the true nature of the self. To practice satya, one must be consistent with reality in one's thought, speech and action.
Why it matters
Satya is based on the understanding that honest communication and action form the bedrock of all healthy relationships. Deception, distortion, exaggeration, and dishonesty are therefore harmful to oneself and others. Satya is intimately connected with ahimsa, because it builds on the premise that being untrue to oneself or others are ultimately harmful to relationships.
How we practice it in recovery
“Recovery is like lifting a fog and being able to see things as they actually are.”
– A woman recovered from eating disorders
In eating disorder recovery, individuals move through the process of becoming honest with themselves as well as with others. However, satya is more than just refraining from dishonesty. To truly practice satya, we must actively seek out truth, speak it and act from it. It calls us to accept situations as they are and not as we wish they were. Our perception of reality essentially becomes our reality. Our stories--our beliefs and our thoughts--become our reality. Because of this, we need to be clear about our stories, check in with them and make sure they are truth rather than stories we’ve held onto that no longer serve us.
Satya Yoga Practice
View this video to pracitice with “truthfulness” towards your body.
A word about mindfulness
Today we thread the theme of honoring endings and welcoming beginnings into our yoga practice. When we are present to our breath, body, thoughts and emotions we paved the way for connection to these parts. When we can address their needs (ie we honor our edge a pose, move our body authentically they way it enjoys, or acknowledge a challenging emotion) they thank us!
The magic ingredient is awareness. What would it be like to bring your awareness to the mat? This ninth installment guides you to move your body with while noticing what’s happening in the present moment. What would it be like to let go of what is no longer needed? How might you make room for something new? What are you saying yes to in your recovery and life this year? What might you say ‘no’ to? What is it like to create with the power of your focused, sacred intentions?
A word about eyes closed.
Throughout the series you will hear me invite you to practice movement with your eyes closed. This is to facilitate an inner awareness. If closing your eyes does not work for you (for whatever reason) don’t do it! You can gaze down at the floor or continue to look at your screen during movement. The choice is yours!
Setting up your space
Setting up a safe space for movement is important. Please take a few moments before watching/listening to Mindful Movement with Maria to set up your space. Each month we will need different props. Today you’ll need:
A yoga mat or towel
Something to sit on (ex: a yoga block, bolster, blanket, pillow)
You may also want to have handy:
A blanket
A yoga block
A yoga strap
Medical/LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
This video series is for information purposes only. The information presented is in no way intended as medical advice or to serve as a substitute for medical treatment. The information should be used in conjunction with the guidance and care of your physician and/or treatment team. Because eating disorders are a life threatening illness, It is strongly advised to consult your physician before beginning this or any program that incorporates movement, activity or exercise, especially if you have any medical condition, injury or other medical issue that contradicts physical activity. Please consult with your dietitian/nutritionist as to proper caloric adjustments needed due to this or any other type of movement or activity. In the series you may be directed to notice feelings. This is in no way intended to serve as a substitute for psychological counseling. Please consult with your psychotherapist before participating in this video.
By participating in Mindful Movement with Maria videos you are agreeing to accept full responsibility for your actions.