Let’s talk about language in modern yoga settings
Using Yogi or Yogini to describe a regular yoga teacher or student devalues the traditional sacredness of the title and all that it embodies?
A traditional Yogi or Yogini requires a LIFETIME of dedication and commitment toward a full embodied lifestyle.
A Yogi/Yogini:
Commits to intense self-study through the practice of asana, pranayama, dharana and dhyana. This is his (or her) only purpose.
Withdraws from society, as he sees society as a distraction from his yogic journey towards his inner being.
Does not boast about progress in their practice, but rather serves as a light, a teacher, and an example. You will not find contorted yoga poses flooding their newsfeed.
Eats only two vegetarian meals a day. Yes! And absolutely no caffeine!
Lives by the principles of yamas and niyamas (the moral codes of yoga).
Follows asteya (truth) and aparigraha (non-possessiveness) — they do not hoard material possessions, and aim to lead a simple life often with little or no possessions at all.
Serve society for the betterment of the people and the community at large. And expect nothing in return.
+ more!
Why is it important for us to be mindful of this?
While yoga is undoubtedly a powerful somatic tool supporting collective healing — there is a lot of colonial trauma connected to it’s journey from the East to the West.
Recognising and acknowledging this through using the appropriate language associated with the practice shows respect to the traditional perople’s in which it originated.
SEED SPACE is not here to call anyone out, but rather share information and knowledge to ensure sacred practices (like yoga) are carried out with integrity and respectfully to the cultures in which they originate.
If practicing in an ethically informed way is something that you value and are curious about cultural nuances and appropriation in yoga:
Follow Indian, German based @yogamitsangeeta for workshop’s on Cultural Appropriation in Yoga.
