Ten Steps to Living Like a Yogi: A Guide for the Modern Human [Part-2]

Welcome to Part Two of "Living Like a Yogi." If you haven't read Part One yet, you can find it below and I highly encourage you to read that first.

As mentioned, Part Two is like Level 2; it’s more challenging, especially because the ecosystem around you has to support such changes (growth). However, I assure you that the peace of mind and good health that follows is transformative. You'll be operating on a different wavelength as a result. While the first part focused on physical aspects and lifestyle changes, this one is more about personal growth and development. With that, let’s get started.

6. Meditation

At this stage (after incorporating the first five concepts from part 1), you'll transition from a Rogi/Bhogi state of mind to a more yogic state (especially if incorporated with consistent asana and pranayama practices).

Your mind will be prepared and ready for meditation, which will naturally become a part of your lifestyle. Whether it's 5 minutes or 15 minutes, on an airplane or in a temple, you'll train your mind to meditate during any 10 minutes of solitude. I believe you're doing well in life when meditation becomes your preferred way to relax.

Many people start with guided meditations and specific techniques, and I agree that these can be very helpful. Choose whatever suits you best to develop your practice into a habit.

For me, I’m not rigid with my meditation. I allow it to come to me whenever I feel the need to dive into it. Usually, my time on the mat after an intense asana practice is when my meditation is very deep, and the quietness also helps relax my muscles as a collateral benefit. The second time would be before going to bed, reflecting on the day and processing my feelings. Apart from that, if I'm traveling or feel overwhelmed, I find a few minutes of quiet, close my eyes, and simply focus on my inhale-exhale mechanism without trying to control it. Whatever works for you, start with that.

7. Limiting Your Social Life

This might be controversial, and initially, I struggled with it, especially with obligatory family events where my absence was seen as 'selfish' or 'careless.' However, I have personally felt lighter and more at peace without the burden of social obligations. Most of my close friends know I can't attend night-time events or large gatherings where I wouldn't get quality time with the host, who is often busy running around. I prefer small get-togethers with 2-3 people at home. It's essential to have a few quality friends and family members who support your growth and well-being, and to maintain some distance from those who don't.

Additionally, avoid getting involved in unnecessary gossip and social (or office) politics where you have to pick sides or conform to biases. All this subtly affects the quality of your thoughts and mind, even if it doesn't feel so initially.

8. Limiting Your Social Media Life

Limiting your social media life can significantly enhance your mental clarity and support your overall well-being. Start by curating your feed to include educational or motivational content, using social media as a tool for learning rather than mere entertainment. Be cautious of spiritual content that masquerades as genuine spirituality but may actually be superstition (I call it spiritual entertainment) —this can be a major deterrent to your practice.?

• Create 'close friends' threads to share useful information with a select group, keeping interactions meaningful and relevant.?
• If you choose to stay on social media, opt for platforms that encourage community interaction and genuine connection, like Substack or Reddit, rather than those that have become overly commercialised with limited value add.?

9. Feel Your Feelings and Let Them Go

Entering the subtler realms of self-growth involves acknowledging and processing your emotions without becoming attached to them. Non-attachment doesn't equate to indifference; instead, it means experiencing and releasing your feelings. Each day, I dedicate ten minutes (during the same meditation time) before bed to sit quietly and reflect on the day's events and emotions, allowing them to pass like clouds drifting across the sky. This practice helps to diffuse the emotional charge of thoughts and moments, creating a sense of neutrality.

When emotions like anger or resentment arise, I practice patience, giving myself time—days or even weeks—to process these feelings without seeking distractions. For me, journaling and meditation are effective tools in this process. I often combine them in a 30-minute session, writing down my thoughts to clear them from my mind and reflecting on them through meditation. Just as a computer needs time to process data, our brains need to process experiences to form appropriate responses for the future. By addressing and processing these emotions rather than brushing them aside, we prevent mental clutter and chaos from building up.?

If this seems challenging, my suggestion is to avoid dismissing your feelings and emotions. Instead, seek external help if needed, just as you would consult a doctor or physiotherapist for physical pain. Understanding and addressing your mental and emotional experiences is crucial, as our behaviors are shaped by both our internal self and external environment. Seeking support not only allows you to learn and grow from your internal experiences but also creates humility, as you recognise that you don’t have to (or cannot) navigate everything on your own.

10. Make Transiency Your Mental Model: This Comes, This Goes. I Come, I Go.

As discussed in one of my previous newsletter, everything in life, including the cells in your body and your breath, is in a constant state of flux. Adopt a “witness-like” attitude to observe this natural flow of life. This doesn’t mean passivity or inaction. Instead, it means doing your part and letting go of the need to control every aspect of your life. Focus on one or two key priorities, and allow the rest to unfold as it will.

In astrology, it’s believed that everything is perpetually changing, and no two moments are ever the same. Acknowledging this impermanence helps you find peace and hope, especially during the uncertain phases of life.

As I wrap up this series on "Living Like a Yogi," my hope is that you’ve found these insights and practices beneficial in your journey towards holistic well-being.

Start simple, start small but start today.

Regards,

K