INTENTION

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika is one of the three primary ancient texts on hatha yoga. The other foundational texts are the Gheranda Samhita and Shiva Samhita, which both predate the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The text explains the entire ‘science’ of Hatha yoga – including asana, pranayama (breath techniques), shatkarma (cleansing or ‘purifying’ practices), mudra (symbolic gestures) and bandha (body locks).

All of the methods of practice are means to attain Self-realization. The intention underlying the strenuous Hatha Yoga practices must be enlightenment for the sake of the Cosmic Self.

Chapter 4. Verse 79. There are practitioners of hatha yoga who do not have the knowledge of raja yoga. I consider them as mere practitioners because they derive no fruits for their efforts.

Those people who practice hatha yoga merely as a form of bodily beautification and exercise are not using this science with the correct intention, and they therefore fail to progress to the path of raja yoga. They fail to gain the indwelling pleasure which unified consciousness bestows. The real purpose of hatha yoga is to open the gate to self-realization. The practitioner has to know its subtle influence on the nadis, prana and mind. He should at least know intellectually about shoonya, kundalini, samadhi etc.

How can we look at these ancient teachings and assimilate these to make it relevant both in the modern world and to ourselves?

Jack Kornfield emphasises that becoming aware of intention is the key to awakening in moment-to-moment practice (being present). He also speaks about how we can change karmic ways through the power of intention.

With the coming of the New Year, resolutions are made. Intentions are slightly different in that they are part of our goal-less path. Each time you start over by reconnecting to your intention, you are taking one more step toward finding your own authenticity and freedom. In that moment, you are remembering yourself and grounding your life in your heart’s intention.

What are your intentions for yourself and in your practice in 2023?