Recently, I received an enlightening phone call from a website visitor who had a few suggestions about changing my appearance. It seems we cannot all live up to our own expectations, or those expectations that are imposed upon us. The following is part of a conversation about Yoga, Santosha, and judging others.

Q: Why do you dress in western sports casual clothing? You do not look like an authentic Yogi. Orange or white robes would be more appropriate for a "true Yoga teacher." Your usual clothes make you look like a gym teacher or a greedy businessman.

A: Firstly, I am an American just like you and was raised as a child within this culture. Although I will continue to study Yoga's many facets, and Eastern martial arts for life, my identity is still somewhat culturally based. Therefore, I will not be changing wardrobes any time soon. However, I had a question for you - "How many years have you been studying Yoga?"

Q: You're very clever trying to answer a question with a question. I have been practicing Yoga for over ten years. So, what does the number of years I practiced Yoga have to do with anything?

A: I was curious to know, in your ten years of practice, if any of your past Yoga teachers had taught you about a specific Niyama, which is called, "Santosha." Do you know the meaning of Santosha, and how we can apply it toward our daily life?

Q: I am the one asking the questions, and I don't see what this has to do with anything. No, I have never heard of Santosha or Niyama, but I suppose you want to tell me all about it. So, what is Santosha, and what does it have to do with this conversation?

A: Niyama or Niyamas are a fundamental part of any foundational Hatha Yoga training program. Among the Niyamas, mentioned by Maharishi Patanjali, within the Yoga Sutras is Santosha. Santosha is a state of contentment and non-judgment.

In Yoga, we learn how to appreciate what we have, which will result in happiness (sukha). Non-judgment will also bring about states of inner harmony, contentment, joy, and bliss. We can enjoy life so much by carrying Yoga out into our daily lives.

Shortly afterward, the phone line went dead, but I had hoped to convince her to research Yama and Niyama, as described by Maharishi Patanjali. Also, I hoped she would appreciate what Yoga does for each of us off the Yoga mat. Judging others, over their differences, from what we consider normal, is a waste of time and it depletes our happiness.

While it is true that good judgment can save your life, it is also true that we spend too much time thinking about our little differences. If we truly want peace and happiness, it is much easier to notice what we have in common with each other.

When we judge another person, we risk becoming intolerant. Yoga teaches us that non-judgment is the key to inner peace and world peace. If we do not carry our practice beyond asanas on a Yoga mat, we have missed out on the most valuable part of the lesson.

?Copyright 2009 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications