
A popular metaphor in yoga is that of flying a kite knowing when to give string, so that the wind can take over and make the kite soar, and when to reel it in so that the kite does not get entangled in trees and other such objects. The idea is clear - let go when higher forces are at play and take over when you can control something - real simple. In theory at least.
Or as Patanjali says in Sutra 2.47, Prayatna Shaithilya Ananta Samapattibhyam - relaxation of efforts and absorption into something infinite in regards to mastering Asanas. In life, this relaxation of efforts is important too or we would just become tense and rigid and miss our goals because of it. Yoga is about effortlessness.
I am a big fan of the metaphor and the Sutra and use both of them in class whenever they fit. But over the last few months, I observed myself trying to hold the string of the kite when I should have let go. In response, life, the beautiful teacher, simply played out as it always does and left me with no option in the end. And I finally understood and bowed down gracefully (after having a hearty laugh at my own folly).
What had happened? It was university application time - not my own, my daughter's. After clearing high school, it was time to look at the world of higher studies that beckoned - US, Europe, India - the world seemed her oyster. With a wonderful predicted grade, she managed to get into a highly ranked university abroad in her chosen field of study, which is much sought after.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In

Yoga and Mental Health
The many benefits of yoga

No Pain, No Gain
Lessons from pain

Different Planets
From astrology to office politics

Transformation Through Yoga
When pain pushes you in the right direction

Karma Yoga
Are you Ram or Shyam?

Falling Into Yoga
Positive impact of the Yoga Teacher Training Course in my life

Getting Into a Peaceful State of Mind
Mastering Nispanda Bhava

The Three Vipakas
Influence what you can and accept what you cannot

The Agony and Ecstasy of Writing
Many a time while writing, I suffer miserably. I find it to be mediocre. Self-doubt plagues me when I reread what I have written. There are days when I look at the blank screen for long periods of time in frustration. During the long breaks from writing, I roam around the house, feeling guilty and annoyed at myself.

Chaupatiya/Marsilea Quadrifida
Chaupatiya, Chatupatri, Jalkapasia, Swastik, Sunishannaka, European water-clover (Marsilea quadrifida).