Live a yogic life

As I mature in my study of yoga and evolve my perception of life, some things serve as a reminder more than offer inspiration. This week's Words of Wisdom from Sri Swami Satchidananda are like that. I understand what he's saying; I've heard it many times before. But it brings my attention back to the lesson and try to live by the words.

"The real Yoga is not just standing on the head or making the breath like a bellows. They are only aids; they are not the end all. Every action, every minute must be a yogic minute to you. Then you will really enjoy the blessings of Yoga and can call yourself a Yogi. Always see things in this light: Will this give me peace, a balanced mind? All through the day and night, lead a yogic life. Eat in the yogic way, sleep in the yogic way, talk in the yogic way and live in the yogic way. Let us practice Yoga every minute in our daily life."

Asking, "will this give me peace?" is an easy, helpful way to discern what is important in life and provide insight in a difficult situation. Stepping back to ask how to derive peace from a heated discussion or hard decision can provide an answer that stays true to yourself.