Show Notes

Understanding Asteya [0:48 – 3:09]

• Yoga means uniting and connecting to become whole.
• Asteya (non-stealing) arises from a sense of lack and leads to desire, greed, and seeking external sources to fill the void.
• Asteya in practice: Staying on your own mat, not comparing yourself to others, and being present with your practice.
• Postures we can do are not as important as the awareness we bring to them.
• It’s about respecting boundaries and possessions of others.

Benefits of Practicing Asteya [3:09 – 5:47]

• Letting go of jealousy, embracing trust, and finding contentment and balance.
• Overcoming the desire for what others have, leading to gratitude and generosity.
• Realizing that the universe provides what you need.
• Experiencing fulfillment through respecting boundaries and possessions of others.

Challenges in Practicing Asteya [5:47 – 6:49]

• Requires self-awareness and acknowledging desires’ impact.
• Societal pressures promoting consumption and competition.

Thematic Throughline Phrases [6:49 – 10:58]

• Encourage self-reflection: Where do you steal from yourself? Are you leaking time and taking from what you truly need?
• Discourage comparison: Drop the comparison to others or to your past self.
• Suggest an alternative perspective: Find joy in other people’s achievements without diminishing your own.

Peak Pose Recommendation [7:44 – 9:42]

• Mermaid Pose, a challenging pose with progressions for all levels.
• Emphasize the importance of staying on your own mat and respecting your body’s limits.

Continuing the Practice Off the Mat [9:58 – 10:58]

• Walk off the mat with the intention of exploring Asteya and showing up with joy in life.