Sraddha

In Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, 1.20, there are 5 qualities that lead us to wisdom or Samadhi.  They are Sraddha (faith), Virya (vitality), Smrti (power), Samadhi (contemplation) and Prajna (wisdom).  Our focus this month will be on Sraddha or Shradda a word that has no clear direct meaning in English but is often defined as faith.

From our Western training faith is often interpreted or defined as a practice of blind belief.  Sraddha is different as it is a deep inner connected faith, born of our inner knowing, more like an inner compass.  It helps us to know our purpose, to be guided from a connection we have with something greater than we are.  With Sraddha our faith is not reliant on something else, it is rooted from our deep connections with ourselves, believe and other knowing. 

As we delve into a practice of yoga something deep within us is unearthed.  We begin to feel, hear and believe in a broader sense of life, purpose and understanding.  This is Sraddha.  We invite you to join us on the mat, beach, or pool as we delve inward in the practice of Sraddha.  When the mind wants to tear you away with doubts, it is a perfect opportunity to practice Sraddha.  Connect, breath and feel.