Aparigraha
Definition - What does Aparigraha mean?
In Indian philosophy and yoga, aparigraha is the concept of non-possessiveness, non-greed and non-attachment. It is one of the yamas, or codes of ethical behavior, listed in Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga. The last of the five yamas teaches that one should take only what one needs or serves and let go of the unnecessary. -yogapedia
Aparigraha is about letting go of what’s not serving us so we can be who we’re meant to be.
As I was thinking about my weekly theme this week, I felt called to center our practice on aparigraha or non-attachment. We’ve had another bit of a rough go with one of my kids. Getting them to school is tough and they want to just be with me. While I try to understand why and have the “right answer” for how to help him feel better. I thought about my yoga practice and how it could help me in this situation. As a parent, I think we often want to get it right or solve our kids’ problems. It often comes more naturally than letting go.
So this week, let’s challenge ourselves to think about what we’re clinging to and how we can let go, even just a little.
I’m working to remind myself that while I can try to remain calm and set my child up for success, he has to work through this tough stage, and sometimes our children’s behavior is out of our control. Just because he is having a tough time, doesn’t mean I’m doing something wrong. Is there someone in your life whose behavior you wish you could control? Or whose problems you wish you could solve or fix? I know that it’s much easier said than done to just let it be and let it go, but let’s work on it this week. Even if it’s just one small step. For me, I’m going to try to let go of what I can’t control, and once he’s off to school for the day try to stay present with my work, my friendships, and myself rather than worrying.
Aparigraha is also about non-attachment to things. We often hear of spring cleaning and last week we talked about spring cleaning our headspace. This week, as we think about aparigraha, let’s look around at our possessions as well. What are we clinging to that’s no longer serving us and as we let go of some of the clutter, can we feel a weight lifted.
On our mats, we’ll look at where we are clinging, clenching, and holding. Do we grip our feet or clench our jaw or shoulders in poses, and can we soften and let go a bit? I’d love to hear what you’re working to let go of this week, email me back and let me know!
As you think about what is not serving you today, try this breath practice with me.
Inhale Let
Exhale Go
Inhale Let
Exhale Go
