YogaConnections

A blogger over at Yoga Journal asked these questions. I thought I might post my answers here too.

Is anyone doing hatha yoga to become more spiritual/enlightened?  

I prefer the term “evolved.” If that term qualifies, then yes. As a non-dualist, I see improving in any area as effecting positive change in my entire being.

Does[sic] you feel more spiritual doing asanas?  

I have had many emotional breakthroughs as well as “ah-ha” type enlightening moments while practicing yoga asana. Asana is meditative for me.

Do you find spirituality in a yoga studio?  

The studio where I practice is intentionally made to be a sacred space. When I am there, I experience the sacred more directly than anywhere else I go. As a non-dualist, I don’t distinguish between the spiritual and physical worlds. They are the same, and since the physical world is manifest, that is where I sense the sacred.

Do you think that one day during your practice you are going to become enlightened?  

Enlightenment is a process, not an end state. It isn’t something to reach or become.

Do you feel that if you achieve perfection in an asana you are somehow more spiritual?  

Perfection is only experiencing ones ultimate expression of self in the moment. We are all perfect, always.

Thanks for asking.

Namaste’

Scott