Thoughts on Yoga

Dear Fellow Yogis and Friends:

Josh and I are continually inspired by the passion our students bring to their yoga.  We are honored to be able to teach and share with such committed students.  Together, you have all contributed to creating a real yoga community.

The world we are living in today is deeply troubled.  Anxiety, worry, and fear are all around us.  Our bodies, minds and emotions are constantly being tested. 

We now know for sure that the planet is under threat due to climate change.  Poverty and corruption are as much with us today as they have ever been.  Our country's supposed economic and moral superiority are now being deeply questioned.  Some people feel that our entire way of life is coming to an end.

We may be tempted to feel that we are the first generation to face such daunting threats.  Certainly our circumstances are unique. However, insecurity about survival has always been part of the human experience.

The Buddha, who lived in India during the sixth century BCE, was also a witness to cataclysmic change.  During his lifetime, there were constant battles between warlords.  A cash economy was just being introduced in the region.  His society's way of life which had been stable for almost a thousand years was suddenly under threat.  

As a response to such violence and upheaval, the Buddha and countless others practiced yogic disciplines and taught them to others.  Many became fully enlightened and saw a path to the end of all suffering.

After the Buddha was enlightened he went on to develop an entire system of yogic training.  He founded a large community.  He was a teacher to kings.  This is why he is revered today when so many teachers of his time are forgotten.

The Buddha recognized the fundamental need for aspiring yogis to have refuge from the world.  Many of his students became monks and nuns.  He also had lay followers who practiced yoga, listened to his teachings, and sought realization in the midst of family life.

To all his students and disciples, the Buddha offered the Three Refuges:  1) refuge in one's own innate capacity to become enlightened. 2)the effectiveness of the teachings, and 3) the community of practitioners. 

Today the need for helpful friends and teachers is as strong as ever.  May the yoga community continue to grow and thrive so that we can all help each other find the peace and happiness we so deeply desire.

May all beings be at peace,
Ruth Anne