As we embrace the shifting energy of autumn, nature provides us with a beautiful reminder to release what no longer serves us. The falling leaves symbolize the shedding of old layers, creating space for new growth. In yoga philosophy, we have a similar practice of purification called Saucha, which is one of the Niyamas, or personal observances, outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Saucha is commonly translated as cleanliness or purity, but its meaning goes way beyond simply tidying up our physical surroundings.
So what exactly does Saucha means in our daily lives and how we can use this practice to nurture gratitude, inner peace, and clarity - especially during the season of change? Physical Purity / Clearing the External Let’s start with the most obvious layer of Saucha - the physical. Autumn invites us to declutter our homes, clear out closets, and create more space around us. In the same way, we can practice Saucha by being mindful of our physical body. This might look like:
Mental Purity / Cleaning the Inner Landscape Just as important as outer cleanliness is the cleanliness of the mind. Our thoughts have the power to shape our reality, and a cluttered mind can cloud our ability to see things clearly. Practicing Saucha at the mental level means becoming aware of negative or toxic thought patterns and working to release them.
The practice of Saucha also encourages us to cleanse our emotional landscape. Often, we hold on to old grudges, unresolved feelings, or emotional baggage that weighs us down. Autumn, with its theme of release, is a great time to let go of these emotional burdens and invite more lightness into our lives. Naturally, as we focus on cleansing, we also bring in the concept of Aparigraha (non-grasping) outlined in the Yamas as well. It's hard to talk about one of the Yamas or Niyamas without another one being connected in some way!
On the deepest level, Saucha is about recognizing and connecting with the purity of our true self - our inner light that is untouched by the distractions and impurities of the outside world. This is the heart of yoga: to peel back the layers that obscure our connection to our essence, allowing us to live in a state of peace and clarity.
This November (or whatever month you're reading this!), let’s make space for what truly matters by practicing Saucha in all aspects of our lives. Whether it’s decluttering your home, simplifying your schedule, or letting go of emotional baggage, you’ll find that the more you clear away, the more room you create for gratitude, love, and inner peace. Here’s a simple journaling prompt to help you begin:
Wishing you a peaceful and purifying season of gratitude. 🍂 With love, Katie Beene Join us for our Thanksgiving Day Donation Based Gratitude Yoga on Thursday, November 28 from 9:00am - 10:15am led by studio Co-Owners: Katie Beene and Alyssa Liadis. Save your spot here!
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AuthorKatie Beene, Studio Co-Owner ArchivesCategories |