The Art of Self-Inquiry

Earlier this week I was teaching a YIN Yoga class in which I felt compelled to talk to my students about the concept of self-inquiry, or svadhyaya. Svadhyaya, which literally translates to “one’s own reading” is the forth Niyama in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and is all about cultivating a deeper connection with self.

Imagine for a moment that your inner world is a beautiful garden. Each time you choose to step on your yoga mat, you’re actively watering your garden. It’s a conscious choice to nourish your connection with self, which in turn supports your internal world to blossom.

For so many of us, we’re conditioned to think that we’ll feel better when we get the next “thing” e.g. job promotion, car or relationship. Yet the truth is nothing external can ever fill the internal void. The pathway to contentment is to water your garden regularly and continuing exploring self-inquiry.

If yoga isn’t for you, you might like to try another practice such as meditation, journaling or breath work. Even a nice quiet walk with your thoughts allows space for reflection.

Just as your outside garden needs regular watering, so does your internal landscape.

So here’s my invitation to you… Over the next 7 days, commit to at least 10 minutes of self-study each day. You’ll be amazed at the connection you can cultivate when showing up for yourself consistently.