The 8 limbs give a system to profound practise that assists people with moving from the outside to the inside degrees of cognizance. The excursion of Lent is likewise a chance to move from our occupied, regularly remotely engaged lives into a more profound inner attention to and relationship with God. In our speedy, innovative society our psyches face consistent incitement and are pulled in numerous ways. In this manner, we need consciousness of the condition of the psyche to move into a more profound association with the Source of life. Jesus welcomes us to slacken our hold on the common concerns and to arrange ourselves to what in particular is generally fundamental: to cherish each other, to focus on the entirety of creation, and to be in fellowship with God.
The text suggests that “with the movements of body in yoga and the quieting of breathing, one must learn to extend this long moment, holding it in place before returning to our ordinary, more fragmentary consciousness,” (Valkenberg, 2017, p.54). This strongly correlates with my personal experience of body exercises and slow breathing techniques which I happen to use whenever my body is in stress, and I have a lot of thoughts in my mind because of external issues. I agree with the statement that “the impressive movements are of a piece, the mundane, and the lofty are interconnected,” since our body, material needs, personal relationships, and emotions are all interconnected and dependent on each other (Valkenberg, 2017, p.38).
The new concept I learned from the chapter is brahmacharya, the practice of stripping away propensities, wants, and different deterrents that hold us back from drawing nearer to illumination, or association with the Divine (Valkenberg, 2017). As Cubans, my family always taught me that to pursue happiness and satisfaction it is important to balance all aspects of life and ensure that fulfillment of both external and internal needs.
For Christians, Lent is generally a chance to quick and apologize. It’s a chance to put forth a cognizant attempt to set to the side deterrents to our relationship with God. In case you’re Christian, or on the other hand if you know Christians, you might connect Lent with surrendering chocolate or liquor, for instance. For yogis who are additionally Christian, there are unquestionably associations among Lent and yoga. It is interesting how the practice defines death as “putting down and taking up,” meaning this is not something to be scared of but rather a way to become closer to God (Valkenberg, 2017, p.55).
The reading infers that there is a direct correlation between yoga goals and means of Christianity by stating both offer “the inner states of contemplation” (Valkenberg, 2017, p.50). I can relate to the notion of Lent not only as a Cuban Christian but as a modern world human being who finds piece in self-searching and meditations. I often listen to relaxational music and used to meditate early in the mornings to set a productive day. They helped me to stay positive about the events for the rest of the day.
I find the word samadhi a new useful term for spiritual practices. It is the most noteworthy condition of mental fixation that individuals can accomplish while still bound to the body and which joins them with the most noteworthy reality (Valkenberg, 2017). I like the idea that “mindfulness that is first of all moral” because I understand that it is crucial to make sure the person knows his or her aim and does everything with meaning (Valkenberg, 2017, p.50). The belief touches the themes of life, death, meaning, soul, and mind, creating a full circle of truly being human.
Reference
Valkenberg, P. (2017). World religions in dialogue, enhanced edition: A comparative theological approach (Enhanced ed.). Anselm Academic.