We have drifted on the Yin River far from the dock where we boarded our little ferry, with the question
on our lips, "What is Yin Yoga?" We have seen the history of yoga displayed before us. Our ferry took us
into the waters of the physical body, the energy body, and the mind body. We were shown how the Eastern
views compare to those in the West. Many small lakes through which we passed, invited us to linger and
learn more. Perhaps you responded to a few of these invitations: the sights along this river are
compelling.
Most of the time, we trusted the river, and just went with the flow. We were shown how to practice
Yin Yoga and what to practice. We heard the warnings of rapids and extreme white waters awaiting us,
should we follow certain streams. These warnings advised us to seek an experienced guide, before
braving the treacherous waters. We also discovered that, at times, floundering is just another part
of the journey; when we travel a river, we should expect to get wet now and then.
The journey is not finished by any means … and that is okay. The destination is still ahead, and the
river will take us ever onward. After all, it is the journey itself that is most important. Still to
be discovered are the waters of deeper yoga - we have only floated around the outer edges of the
lakes of the vijnanamaya and anandamaya koshas. The serious traveler will want to find a pilot to
take her safely to, and through, those deep waters.
The Buddha once said, "Place no head above your own." He warned us that the spiritual path has to be
traveled; staying at home and reading about it is not a substitute. Hearing tales from others who
have gone before you will be of absolutely no value, unless you make the journey yourself. You
must experience for yourself the truth of any teaching. But this does not mean you need to make
the journey alone; guidance through white waters is absolutely necessary in order to survive.
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"As different streams having their sources in different places all mingle
their water in the sea, so, O Lord, the different path which men take through different tendencies,
various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.
Swami Vivekananda
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