In Yoga it is said that the nature of the mind is to become focussed on certain thoughts, desires and aversions.  This leads to samskaras forming in the individual mind and ultimately mental pain.  The remedy for this sorry state of affairs is Mindfulness. 

What is Mindfulness –

“Paying attention on purpose to the present moment, without judgement”

Jon Kabat Zinn

MINDLESSNESS PRECLUDES OUR EXPERIENCING OF OTHER THINGS AND IS IMPOVERISHING.  Over time knots of fear (granthis) develop because of this narrow focus of our attention and the mind wishing to stay within it’s habitual ways and the pain or Dukha result.

10% of nerve impulses are from brain to body – 90% are from body to brain.  With mindfulness we can experience this other 90% of experience.  Mindfulness also allows us to consciously choose rather than reacting to events.

Mindfulness can be practiced when –

• Washing/showering
• Getting dressed
• Eating
• Walking
• Washing up
• Cleaning house
• Shopping

Applying Mindfulness to Yoga

Follow any standard Yoga practice you like, however focus on –

• Breath – inhale entering (deepening) in posture and exhale when coming out of posture.
• Watch for physical sensations of tension and relaxation in the body.
• Watch for the upwelling of emotions during practice, especially ANGER, IMPATIENCE and BOREDOM.
• When mind wanders from practice – REMEMBER YOURSELF – draw back and focus.