The art of letting go - Aparigraha
In the past, the majority of individuals were born, lived, and died within the confines of their original birthplace. Migration was an uncommon occurrence, usually reserved for those individuals who possessed a sense of adventure or those who were compelled to relocate due to dire circumstances. This static lifestyle was characterised by a deep connection to one's local roots, where homes and lives were intricately woven into the fabric of a single place. Change was a rare visitor in this world, with permanence being the prevailing sentiment. Only a select few were labeled as nomads in a society where stability and consistency were cherished virtues.
A New Perspective on Commitment
I have always been a very flexible and adaptable person. I have never been deeply attached to anything or struggled to move from one place to another. Friends and family often labelled me as having commitment issues. However, with time, I have come to realise that my "issues" were not with commitment per se, but rather with forming attachments to things or places, unlike the majority of individuals.
In my opinion, the distinction between attachment and commitment comes down to CONTROL. Being attached to specific locations or results often results in relinquishing control, leading to a sense of inadequacy. Conversely, committing to your principles or objectives restores your sense of control.
Exploration and Discovery
My curious soul always seeks to explore, discover, and learn. In contrast, my chaotic mind craves control. Once I commit to a goal, I pursue it relentlessly until it's achieved. This need for control grants me the strength to let go. For in letting go, I witness the beauty that unfolds around me.
As a strong believer in the concept that in one lifetime, we are capable of being and doing many things, I firmly hold the belief that we should never form attachments to any place, object, or person. Too often, individuals become ATTACHED to a fixed identity, typically constructed by their egos. In the early stages of our existence, we are in the process of shaping this identity, with many individuals basing their entire lives around this persona.
But, one day you open your eyes in the morning, and you no longer recognise yourself. You do not like the house you live in, you are no longer enjoying your job like you used to and you are not happy with the person you see in the mirror. In two words you’ve LOST CONTROL.
In my journey towards yoga I found order and APARIGRAHA. This has become one of my favourite practices and a fantastic way to keep my life under control.
“Let your concern be with action alone, and never with the fruits of action. Do not let the results of action be your motive, and do not be attached to inaction.”
Focus on the Present Moment
In every situation, our primary focus should be on the actions we are taking in the NOW rather than becoming consumed by the potential outcomes that lie ahead. By centring our attention on the present, we can fully immerse ourselves in the process and give our best without the distraction of what may or may not come to pass. This approach allows us to be fully engaged, attentive, and dedicated to each task, leading to more meaningful and successful results in the long run. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, if not more so.
And now the most beautiful part of it, how do you include Aparigraha on your daily practice.
A life led with Aparigraha as a guiding principle can certainly be a challenging path to walk. To detach oneself from material possessions may appear attainable, but to detach from emotions and feelings requires a depth of awareness that few can master. The struggle to release emotional attachments can be lifelong and arduous, demanding a continuous effort to remain present and detached. The journey of letting go of feelings and emotions is a profound one, filled with hurdles that test the strength of one's resolve. It is in these moments of struggle that true growth and self-awareness can be found, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around us.
In previous years, I would worry about the outcome of an event as appose to just DOING. For me, this has been one of my hardest practices. Letting go of all of those negative fears and enjoying the journey towards that moment of happiness - living in the moment.
As a couple, we have experienced our fair share of worries and uncertainties along the way. It's natural to be concerned about the outcomes of our actions, but dwelling on these concerns can be counterproductive. When we embarked on our journey together, we understood the risks and potential pitfalls that came with it. However, we made a conscious decision to focus on the present moment and to put in the necessary effort to nurture our relationship. Letting go of toxic feelings and embracing the journey towards happiness has been a significant challenge for us both. Through mindfulness and mutual support, we have learned to let go of unnecessary worries and instead savour each moment as it comes. This shift in perspective has brought us closer together and allowed us to appreciate the beauty of the present, rather than being consumed by uncertainty about the future.
Aparigraha can be incorporated into various aspects of life, including the mind, wastage, diet, household, and most notably, on the yoga mat. By actively practising the art of letting go, individuals can experience a greater sense of liberation and contentment in all spheres of life.
“Anything you cannot control is teaching you how to let go”
Aparigraha: Embracing the Freedom of Letting Go
Aparigraha offers us FREEDOM - the freedom to pursue our passions without being consumed by concerns about the outcome, the freedom to detach ourselves from reliance on external possessions. By cultivating this practice, we can liberate ourselves from the shackles of fear and fully embrace the joy of exploration and self-discovery.
Practice Letting Go Through Decluttering
Letting go is a continual lesson that requires daily practice. One effective way to begin mastering this art is through DECLUTTERING. Start by parting ways with possessions you no longer use. Often, we become deeply attached to our belongings. By regularly decluttering, you not only experience the liberation of letting go but also the satisfaction of potentially bringing happiness to someone else by passing on your items. Embrace this practice to cultivate a sense of freedom and lightness in your life.
When you just let go, you create space for new opportunities to enter your life. Letting go of expectations, fears, and old patterns can be liberating. It allows you to be present in the moment and open to whatever comes your way. By releasing control and trusting in the flow of life, you may find unexpected pathways unfolding before you.
So, embrace the unknown, surrender to the journey, and see where letting go can lead you.