We continue our Yamas and Niyams Series with Saucha
Translation: Saucha ( Sanskrit: शौच, also spelled Saucha, Śauca) translates to purity, cleanliness and clearness.
What it is
Saucha is one of the Niyamas or observances. Saucha is a practice of keeping our paths clean and clear and to tend to the weeds of distractions and obstacles that disturb our true purpose.
Why it Matters
When we are cluttered, tainted or muddied with things that don’t serve us we get distracted. Being clear and “sober” in body, mind and soul helps individuals move into their truth
How we practice it in recovery
As we travel down the road of recovery we look for the weeds that get in our way and occlude our view. Judgmental thoughts taint recovery oriented ones. Symptoms clutter our bodies and take them over. When difficult emotions arise, can we stay with them long enough to have them clarified? Consider what “cleaning up your act” in recovery means.
Saucha Yoga Practice
View this video to pracitice to work with the elements of sober recovery.
A word about mindfulness
Today we thread the theme of cleanliness into our yoga practice. When we are present to our breath, body, thoughts and emotions we paved the way for connection to these parts. Can we “wring out” symptoms and stay clear in efforts to recover?
The magic ingredient is awareness. What would it be like to bring your awareness to the mat? This installment of the new year guides you to move your body while noticing what’s happening in the present moment. What would it be like to offer movements that help us to have gratitude for what our body can do?
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.