Yoga And Psychology

In my journey in personal growth , two schools of thought have contributed immensely. They are yoga and psychology. Both deal with examining the mind. While yoga talks about transcending the mind, psychology focuses on understanding the mind. I see them as father and mother. Let me explain.

- Ajay Karla

Yoga is the father. The father normally sets the boundaries for behaviour that creates self-discipline. He is not interested in your likes and dislikes. He wants purposeful, committed action. Emotions, impulses and sensations have to be overcome if they come in the way of our duty. Krishna’s advice to Arjuna in his moment of weakness during the war against his near and dear ones was, “Do your duty Arjuna. A Karma Yogi should fight, treating victory and defeat alike, pain and pleasure alike. Even death in the performance of one’s duty brings happiness.” The eight fold path of yoga begins with Yamas and Niyamas - Don’t’s and Do’s - Self-restraints and Observances. The dictums are universal. They do not change from person to person.

Psychology is the mother. The mother generally listens, empathizes and even if she challenges, she does so gently. The mother is interested in hearing your personal story - what happened to you, how you felt, how it impacted you, what hurt and pain you are holding within. She offers you the space to express your emotions and gently offers you a few tissues to wipe your tears. “The struggles of my life created empathy - I could relate to pain, being abandoned, having people not love me.” says Oprah Winfrey on how her own personal challenges enabled her to create healing spaces for others. The mother does not have any dictums. She gives you solace and encourages you to find your own answers.