Keep Your Vibes High
The first of Patanjali’s Niyamas (spiritual observances) asks us to practice purification and cleanliness, a concept called Saucha. When we purify and/or clean our environment, our bodies, our thoughts, and our words, it becomes easier to have clarity, in part because of the higher vibration that purification brings. Sometimes we slip into the mire by taking in junk food, indulging in gossip, and watching too much trashy TV. These are only some examples of the acts that may be cluttering up our mental and physical bodies, there are countless more.
To observe Saucha in everyday life, try the following:
In Your Environment
-Declutter regularly. Clutter and spaces that are overly full of stuff tend to feel imposing and uncomfortable. They can also have distracting effect on the mind, because you may always feel like you need to straighten up. Memory clutter may also make you have unwanted feelings about the past. Make sure you’re only displaying things that bring you joy and/or peace.
-Clean consistently. Dirty spaces are not only unhealthy, but also can have a negative effect on our psyche.
-Beautify often. Look at your space with fresh eyes. Can you remove tired or broken items and replace them with things you love? Beautify with color, flowers, or items that you want to be around.
In Your Body
-Wash each day. Cleanse your body, your sinuses, your digestive organs, and more. There are many yogic practices that help you to purify and cleanse. A quick search will give you more information.
-Practice good hygiene- such as washing your hands before practice, or right when you come in your home from being away. These practices may boost your immunity and build mindfulness when done as a way of honoring your body.
-Maintain a healthy diet. Eating well keeps the body free of toxins and other chemicals that may sacrifice purity.
-Practice yoga asana. The physical practice of yoga is meant to move energy through the body in order to purify it.
-Practice Pranayama. Certain breathing practices, like Khappalabhati, are purifying and cleansing.
In Your Mind
-Practice Meditation and Mindfulness. Being aware of your thought processes and learning to direct your mind to what you choose is one of the primary ways we cultivate purity in yoga.
-Strive for clarity and kindness when communicating. By avoiding gossip, grudges, deceit and negative talk, you are able to maintain purity of mind. Especially be aware of negative thoughts that repeat constantly, as these will sacrifice your sense of peace.
-Live with integrity. Approach every moment and every person we encounter with a mindful presence and undivided attention.