The cycle of life and death, of birth and rebirth is governed by karma. In fact, according to Prashant, “karma does not even end at death.
has the seed for the next life.” We “cast a mold” for our next life. The opportunity of death leads to a larger consideration of whether there really is such a thing as misfortune at all. He remarks, “The reality is that everything and everyone in the universe, the creation of the Almighty, is undoubtedly and infinitely fortunate. The whole universe is essentially permeated and infused by Divinity.” It is easy to forget this essential truth when we are enmeshed in the klesha karma vrttis of daily life.
I found The Fundamentals of Patanjali’s Philosophy an exhilarating book. It simultaneously made me feel the existential weight of karma and klesha and offered me an inspiring vision of the liberatory possibility of a life of yogic practice, study, and devotion. Anne-Marie Schultz (Intermediate Junior I) teaches philosophy at Baylor University and yoga at several locations in Austin, TX. Read her blog at www.teachingphilosophyandyoga. blogspot.com .
Classifieds CALL FOR MUSINGS Yoga Samachar seeks submissions for our “Musings” column, which features a range of short thought pieces from members. These can be philosophical in nature or might focus on more practical topics—for example, a great idea for managing your studio or for creating community in your home town. Please send your own Musings to yogasamachar@iynaus.org by July 1. JOIN IYNAUS To join IYNAUS or renew your current membership, please visit our website and apply online: https://secure.iynaus.org/join. php. Membership fees begin at $60, with $30 of each membership going to support teacher certification and continuing education. YOUR AD HERE Yoga Samachar accepts short, text-only ads to announce workshops, offer props for sale, list teacher openings at your studio, or provide other yoga-related information. Ads cost $50 for up to 50 words and $1 per word over 50 words, including phone numbers, USPS addresses, and websites. Please contact Rachel Frazee at rachel@yogalacrosse.com or 608.269.1441 for more information or to submit an ad.
Yoga Samachar Spring / Summer 2016
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