SANURAGATA - Willingness

In April we will be bringing our focus and practice to the energy of Willingness, known as Sanuragata in Sanskrit. This is the next energy of power listed in POWER VS FORCE, by David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D.

When we approach Willingness our inner resistance is dissolved and there is an openness to participate. This is the level of energy where we are recognized, rewarded and appreciated. One of the hallmarks of Willingness is the ability to bounce back from adversity, learn from life’s experiences and be self-correcting. 

Willing people are often friendly, successful, and  helpful to others while contributing to the greater good of their society. 

Willingness will show itself in the physical body, as does inner resistance. In practice this month start to feel and focus on where your body is willing.  Feel the ease that flows, the support one area of the body may be giving to another, and a general sense of resilience that come from Willingness. 

Pay attention, both on the mat and off it, as your mind is open to concepts or may lock down and resist them.  A willing mind is sympathetic and responsive.  It is with willingness that a sense of confidence, assurance, self reflection and growth hold court in the mind. Self talk is like an inner cheerleader, encouraging us to explore, learn, give and receive.

Beware of resistance as it creates entitlement, righteousness and rigidity. These thoughts lead us to feelings in the emotional body that also tighten up the physical body.  Our emotions show up as frustration, agitation, or anger which often fuel our actions in the direction of aggression or avoidance. If you start to feel these feelings or have these thoughts, take a moment to slow down the mind with a deep breath (or a few) and center yourself in the concept of Willingness. Allow yourself to make a shift, open up and be responsive.

During your physical practice of yoga, you have many opportunities to reset the body into the vibration and energy of Willingness, as you back away from force and find the power of Willingness’s energy.  Let it permeate in your mind’s thoughts in the form of observing yourself, in the practice of nonjudgment. Allow your emotions to flow in a willing pattern of transformation and transmutation, releasing the blocks of resistance.  It’s a big practice, a simple practice and we support one another in it together.