The Yamas: Satya
Dear Soul Community,
The practice of Satya, or truthfulness, is the second Yama from the eightfold path of yoga. This practice of truthfulness can be applied to more than just not telling lies or being honest. Satya can be translated as “true essence.” Living in a state of Satya is living as the most authentic version of ourselves. It is getting in touch with our true nature and accepting life as it happens without criticism or judgment.
How much of our reality is spent in truth or without distortion? When life happens, we can be swayed by our negative emotional states such as anger, sadness, jealousy, greed, guilt, or resentment. Our emotions and thoughts are constantly changing as our perception of the world evolves with our experiences. When we make decisions based on these distorted emotional states, we are in a sense denying our own reality or unchangeable truth. However, when we are living in a state of true acceptance of ourselves, others, and our situation, we are living in a state of Satya. Satya is accepting experiences at face value and understanding that there is no such thing as “good” or “bad,” only our perceptions.
Okay, so how DO we live in a state of Satya? Well, our perception of the world begins from within. Accepting who you are as a unique human and building a relationship with yourself is the first step to practicing Satya. Satya is becoming honest with who you are at your core and not being ashamed of your true nature. Ask yourself: “What do I want? Am I only doing certain things to make others happy? Am I living up to my fullest potential or expression?” Become more authentic to yourself and your own needs. You cannot pour from an empty cup!
Practicing Satya also means being authentic within our relationships. Practice speaking from your heart and telling others how you feel. Living in a state of truth is freedom. So, own up to who you really are and exude authenticity! Being yourself gives others the opportunity to also be themselves and live in their truth. If people cannot accept who you really are, then unfortunately, that means they cannot accept their own truth of who they are.
Children are a beautiful example of living in Satya; they speak their truth, express themselves to the fullest, always find time for play or enjoyment, and live within the present moment. They are in a constant state of Satya. So, find time to honor your inner child. Take part in things that bring you pure joy, whatever that may look like for you!
Deepest Respect,
Roxie