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 ASTEYA or non-stealing.
Asteya
Translation: Asteya literally means non-stealing or avoidance of stealing. Asteya is defined in Hindu scripts as "the abstinence, in one's deeds or words or thoughts, from unauthorized appropriation of things of value from another human being.
What it is
We steal when we feel a lack or a void and are desperate to fill it. Therefore, the concept of stealing is rooted in scarity. Usually, stealing in any form emerges from a deep-seated fear that there is not enough or that we are not enough. The practice of Asteya or non-stealing is leaning into abundance and the belief that we are enough, have enough within us.
Why it matters
Each moment we are faced with whether we will be in present or that that moment stolen by thoughts, past or future tripping or comparison. In our current world there are many ways we can distract ourselves from being in the present moment including our phones, social media and surfing the web. The practice of Asteya reminds us to stay in the present not letting the moment be taken FROM us. They say comparison is the thief of joy. This is another way ‘stealing’ happens. When we feel less than and look to someone else or something else outside of ourselves it creates a sense that we are not enough as we are. The practice of Asteya includes the belief that we have all we need inside of us to be whole and to heal.
How we practice it in recovery
Recovery provides a wonderful opportunity to practice Asteya. How often do eating disordered thoughts steal your joy or your ability to be in the moment? As you focus on your recovery these thoughts about weight, size, calories, etc fade away. We can also practice non-stealing by reminding ourselves that we are enough without the external constructs of what media says we should look like. When we live life abundantly and more confidently from a place of inner wisdom we embody “enough”.
Asteya Yoga Practice
View this video to pracitice non-stealing
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.