Yamas. Personal Observances.

This is probably as good a time as any to highlight why considering all these emails might be a good idea.

So in short the Niyamas we have explored are external observances, or to be more literal, what might be a good idea not to do in the persuit of a spiritual path. ie; not to harm, not to lie etc.

The Yamas however are much more to do with ourselves. Therefore it is ultimately a set of carefully thought out suggestions designed to help us embrace taking more responsibility for ourselves in this ongoing cacophony of change that is life.

Saucha- Purification
And now we find ourselves at the top of the Yamas, Saucha- purification, the first of the personal observances. And this comes in so many different shapes and sizes, I'll try to give a snapshot as opposed to essays, (which is what they deserve), so apologies in advance if I miss anything out that should have a mention.
Saucha serves as a foundational practice for spiritual and physical wellbeing. It reminds us that Yoga is a spiritual practice, just like The Islamic call to prayer first thing, just like Church on Sundays for Christians, just like hugging trees for Totnesians (only kidding!... well..?.) And sure, there may be a lightness in the practices themselves but just bringing yourself to your mat, to your church, to your tree is a HUGE part of yoga itself!

Physical
It starts with basic hygiene, keeping the body clean, teeth brushing, taking the night nests out that settle in the hair overnight, keeping on top of washing clothes and sheets, its pretty obvious at this stage.

Internal
That first fresh glass of water in the morning, it might sound really basic, but to treat your body first thing with what it really needs, (and its so blindingly simple) is like a sign that you're listening, and just like with each other, when someone feels listened to, they will relax and feel safe.
Fresh nutritious food that suits your body, keeping in mind the time of year, what grows now etc. & avoiding or at least moderating any toxins, so that the body becomes an environment for spirit to thrive.
And as I sit here typing with my enormous green smoothie beside me feeling pleased with how I chose that over coffee, and feeling how much more I'm getting form it, despite the garden not benefiting form the coffee grains, Im still pretty happy with that choice. I want to walk this talk, and I also want to enjoy it.
But from drinking a glass of water to the vigorous line up of treatments in a Pancakarma cleansing ritual, (Panca-5, karma-actions) we have a plethora of self administrable cleansing rituals at our fingertips.

Mental
This is a big one. Here are some ideas of how to cleanse the mind: Meditation, Shinrin Yoku(- Forest bathing), exercise, walking/running, etc. Pranayama breathing techniques, singing, self study, yes this will have an email all to itself later, its a massive subject!
..And even practicing therapeutic techniques with your partner or the people you live with.. Encourage cleaning up your relationships! Update expectations & assumptions, reinforce reality.

The mental clutter that bungs up our minds is colossal! the distractions, the lists, the relationships, the lack of space, the cleaning jobs, everyone else making mess in your space!!! ahhhh its enough to send one into overload!

But as Arnold Schwartzenegger said, there are 24 hours in a day, a small percentage of your day doing exercise (he says) is non-negotiable:

• Mental Health: He views working out as a daily non-negotiable that shifts his mood positively. He compares it to stepping out of a "black and white movie" into a colourful, brighter, and more beautiful world" https://www.schwarzenegger.com/fitness/post/just-1-percent

I cant help agree with this titan of muscle, but perhaps a gentler approach? by starting with that precious 1% of the day (15 mins) being your time, do whatever it is that nourishes and cleanses you best at that time.
My morning routine; shower, teeth, drink water etc. takes roughly 15 minutes, and then I get to my mat for a time, between 10 minutes and up to an hour. Yes, I'm an early riser, and sometimes that time will be a walk, not on the mat, or if I'm tired it'll be Nidra in bed! or maybe a simple meditation. It will be different every day, but that time will be mine This kind of cleansing is invaluable.

Environment
Keeping your living space, work space, and your things organised promotes and encourages a calm and peaceful state of mind. Basically, get the Dyson out, do you dishes, clear out the fridge occasionally. Move the spiders out, water plants, 'tis but a simple request of spirit to live in a nice place that feel welcoming, clean and calm.
At least sort out the space you choose to do your yoga!!!