Aparigraha -Letting go of what is not needed

Aparigraha is one of the Yamas (morals of Yoga) from Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It can be transalated as,“non-hoarding”, “non-possessiveness” and “non-attachment” This Yama can be related to so many situations in its meaning. Anything from hoarding to many shoes, clothes and lovely things to being over possessive in our relationships, or too attached to our status or jobs. The one phrase I would say best describes Aparigraha is to 'let go'. We can remind ourselves to practice Aparigraha in our physical Yoga class by letting go. Whenever we remember to stop clenching our jaw when balancing, or holding on for dear life by crunching up those toes, and stop holding our breath, we are practicing Aparigraha. 

aparigrahasthairye janmakathamtasambodhah
One who is not greedy is secure. He has time to think deeply.
 His understanding of himself is complete. ~ Yoga Sutra II.39

When we learn to phyically let go of what is not needed in our yoga practice, we can stop trying too hard. We can get out of our own way and just let it happen with ease and enjoyment. This concept can be seen in our daily lives too. Have you ever struggled with the following? We certainly have at times!

• Holding on to negative feelings about people and situations that happened in the past
• Striving for a goal, but instead finding that you are clinging on to a never ending rollercoaster
• Being who you are not because you have a fixed idea of who you should be
• Resisting and feeling threatened by change

When we can let go of ideas, thoughts and situations that no longer serve us, we can unblock, unleash and empower all your natural greatness. In practicing Aparigraha both on and off the mat, whatever is needed to live an abundant and peaceful life will surely flow to you with ease. ​

There's an important difference between giving up and letting go.
 Jessica Hatchigan