Rooted in the Self
The Bhagavad Gita presents a very interesting allegory to continue with the explanation of who we are and how to live in order to develop our optimal potential. Chapter 14 defines the gunas (the three primordial forces of nature) as the makers of physical reality and in chapter 15 Krishna talks about a magical and supernatural tree that binds material existence to the heavenly realm.
The tree of life in the Bhagavad Gita is called “Ashwattha” and it is peculiar because its branches grow towards the Earth while the roots come up to the sky. It grows in both directions: the roots expand looking for the necessary nourishment that will allow the branches to keep offering beautiful flowers and tasty fruits. This image helps us to understand that the sustenance of material life is not in the physical dimension per se because it comes from the subtle.
On the other hand, the analogy of life emerging from the highest realm and branching down creating matter suggests that the fruits of our lives must be found in the physical dimension. As yogins, we are invited to get involved in our circumstances knowing that the sap (vital force) runs through our branches (energetic channels) because we drink from the highest (being in alignment with the non visible dimensions of existence).
How does this translate into our practice? There are two ideas that are worth some reflection:
- Practice is always born from the subtle because everything comes from the Self. Focusing in the inner practice first, will make the outer fruits more delicious.
- As a tree that is well taken care gets so heavy with fruit that ends up releasing it, we must practice with detachment, offering the benefits and sharing them with the world.
Happy beginning of Summer yogins! Harvest non stop…
See you on the mat,
Om Shanti
Zaira
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The Zunray Spark is a biweekly email with an inspirational message. It also serves as theme for the classes at Zunray
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