I have previously described the common obstacles to achieving yoga, known as the Kleshas. However, I would like to further examine one particular Klesha in greater detail. 

This Klesha, known as Abhinivesa, describes the feeling and emotion known in the western world as fear. Fear is possibly one of the most illusive of all the Kleshas as it is difficult to identify.

 Why? Because often our fears are so deeply programmed into our thought processes during our childhood and through years of cultural conditioning we cannot recognize them. Therefore, it takes some real honest soul searching to uncover what they truly are. 

So why does it matter if we have these fears?  Well it doesn't matter as long as you want to continue living life not understanding why you continue to come across the same obstacles. However, if you do wish to understand your thoughts, actions and behaviours, I suggest you have a look at your fears. 

Many people have fears surrounding money, being alone or of not being good enough. This causes people to often pursue situations which do not serve them or avoid certain situations altogether. Fear has been described by many of my yoga teachers, as one of the most powerful catalysts causing people to act or non-act in life.

Therefore, by becoming aware of the underlying currents or rather the fear which drive us, we are empowered to refine our thoughts, behaviours and actions and can work towards  becoming the creators of our own destiny. 

Good luck!

Over the past weekend I was lucky enough to live yoga every day whilst assisting Athill Singh from Happy Buddha Retreats with his residential weekend. The weekend retreat held in Killcare, is the perfect place to achieve peace, clarity and reconnect with your inner voice. 

Athill’s retreats aim to promote a sense of sharing and community whist incorporating the philosophical teachings of yoga. During the weekend there are five yoga classes, a meditation workshop, a vedic chanting lesson, a drumming lesson as well as free time to go to the beach, go bush walking or just relax. In addition, all the food provided on the retreat is 100% organic.

During the weekend I taught two yoga classes as well as the chanting lesson. The two yoga lessons were very different. The first being a strong, breath focused hatha vinyasa flow and the second being a slow, soft, restorative hatha practice. The second practice was taught on the Sunday morning after the previous day of three yoga lessons. As a result the group was quite tired and therefore benefited from a restorative practice. The contrast of these two practices clearly demonstrates how yoga can be adapted to suit the specific needs of the group.

It was a beautiful weekend sharing my love for yoga with Athill and the people on the retreat. I highly recommend this retreat to anyone who wants to learn more about yoga and meditation whilst being in the midst of beautiful surroundings.

http://www.happybuddharetreats.com.au

Love, Luck & Light