Aparigraha ~ A Yogic practice of letting go

Aparigraha is a principle found in Sri Patanjali's system of the 8 limbed path of yoga. These eight limbs describe different practices and states of consciousness that ultimately lead to spiritual liberation. The first limb,
The Yamas, lists five integrity-based guidelines that promote a balanced way of living and being in the world.

The Yamas:
Ahimsa - non harm
Satya - truth
Asteya - non stealing
Aparigraha - non possession
Brahmacharya - conduct of Self/Brahman​

In the Yoga Sutras, the Yamas are listed as the very first limb of this eight fold path. This Yama, Aparigraha, specifically addresses the act of not accepting more than one needs and releasing what does not serve. It indicates that where there is excess, there is imbalance. At this time of year in the Northern Hemisphere, when change is not just figuratively in the air, many of us get to witness the colorful release of fall leaves.

​The ease of a leaf loosening in the wind from it's familiar tree branch can be an inspiring metaphor for our own internal practice of letting go. When the spring season returns, there is no room for healthy, new budding growth if last year's leaves are still in place!

​May this yogic principle inspire you to take a deep breath in and reflect on what is ready to be let go of...and may your out breath be a deep sigh, helping to soften the grasp.