Carolyn Fahey

My first introduction to the practice of yoga came as an invitation from a friend. Her excitement for the practice inspired me to give it a try; I often say it was that first class which changed my life.

Not having any experience or knowledge of the practice, I started out feeling hesitant and a bit awkward as I attempted to follow along. By the end of the class, I was ready for relaxation, and as I rested on my yoga mat, I began to feel a sense of peace and joy inside of myself. Knowing that I wanted more of this in my life, I made the decision to become a student of yoga.

What does it mean to be a yoga student?

The concept of Adikara, or studentship, has five main attributes. First is beginner's mind, the ability to be open, and humble, along with a pure intention to align with, and serve the divine. Whether you are a brand new student, or a seasoned practitioner, embracing the path of yoga with the quality of a beginner's mind cultivates a deeper sense of curiosity, wonder, excitement and joy.

The second element is intellectual dexterity or creative diversity, which encompasses a wide spectrum of learning from basic alignment principals to complex philosophical contemplations. There are abundant opportunities to delve into a vast continuum of intellectual learning. Yoga classes, workshops, retreats and private sessions, are great ways to expand your knowledge and deepen your practice.

Third is the power of aspiring to transform and evolve, it is also desire, drive and confidence. We learn thru our practice, how to embrace all parts of ourselves and to develop a greater sense of self reliance. Yoga is the invitation to self realization and the discovery of our true nature; ultimate freedom and bliss.

The fourth characteristic is a quality of being steadfast, consistent and patient. These are the qualities that help us to stay dedicated to our practice. A steady, consistent practice can become the foundation which supports our physical, emotional and spiritual well being.

And the fifth aspect of Adhikara is the degree of a student's intensity; mild, medium or intense. An intense student loves to practice frequently and has a burning desire to advance in their practice. A milder student may be very content taking one or two classes a week and their desire to advance is much less intense. Often the intensity to which we practice is simply a reflection of our unique, individual personality and temperament.

The qualities inherent in being a student are always present, yet may shift and change from time to time. Sometimes a less intense practice is appropriate, especially if we are injured or healing, and other times we may have a stronger, burning desire for learning and transformation.As a student, we may experience doubt along the way, especially when we are challenged in our practice. During these uncertain times, we may find ourselves saying things like, "I'm just not that flexible" or "I'm too old to do yoga" or even "I don't have time" These are disempowering thoughts which may block us from taking the first step towards becoming a student, or even interfere with our practice. Self limiting thoughts may prevent us from trying something new, or they may keep us stuck in familiar patterns of behavior that do not enhance the quality of our lives. Yoga is a path of empowerment and radical affirmation; it is a way to step into your power and to experience your life fully. It is up to you to choose the thoughts that support your own inner intention. My teacher once said, "Argue for your limitations and they are yours."

As students on the path of yoga, we have the power within ourselves to aspire to transform and evolve. When we practice with a beginner's mind, we humbly open ourselves to the possibility of expanding our intellectual and creative ability. We all have an inner confidence and radiance that can be revealed when we practice yoga. The more we experience the benefits of our practice, the more we will consistently choose to attend yoga classes, start a home practice, take a workshop or participate in a retreat.

So how do we measure whether our yoga practice is fulfilling our highest intentions?

Our progress on the path of spiritual awakening is reflected in an increase in our feeling spiritually centered; we have a deeper sense of inner strength, confidence and steadfastness. We also experience wisdom, a quality of understanding the interconnection of life. There is a greater capacity to give and receive love, to live more fully in the moment and to experience a greater sense of fulfillment. We feel happy and lighthearted, more friendly, compassionate, kind and peaceful. Yoga teaches us how to see the good and the auspicious in everyone and everything. We become more sensitive, and have a deeper sense of appreciation and gratitude for all the blessings in our lives.

As students, thru our practice, we learn that yoga is an ever expanding process of unfolding our divine goodness and perfection. It is a path of deepening into the perfection that already exists, and an invitation to awaken to our true nature and celebrate life.