Post 6 of 18 on the 8 Limbed Path: Aparigraha — The Freedom of Letting Go

The final Yama, Aparigraha, means non-grasping or non-possessiveness. At first, it’s about material things: don’t hoard, don’t cling. But at a deeper level, it’s about releasing the need to control outcomes.

Our egos want to hold tight—whether to people, identities, or expectations. Aparigraha whispers: Open your palms. Trust the flow of life.
On the mat, this might look like practicing without attachment to whether you “nailed” the pose. Off the mat, it’s about loosening your grip on how things “should” be, and discovering freedom in acceptance.

Everyday Practices

• Declutter: Release one thing you don’t use but someone else could.
• Expectations: Notice where you cling to how life “should” look.
• Relationships: Allow others the freedom to grow and change.
  
  

Reflection Prompt
What’s one thing—physical, emotional, or mental—you could let go of today to move from holding on to flowing with life?

Further Resources
If this post on the 8 limbs of yoga sparked something for you, here are a few ways to go deeper:

• Read the Book: Dancing with Our Selves: A Practical Guide to Harness the Ego and Live on Purpose — my book blends yoga philosophy with modern psychology to help you move beyond reactive patterns and live with intention.
• Practice the Principles: Join my self-guided program, 40 Days of the Yamas & Niyamas, and receive short daily videos + reflections to bring these teachings into your everyday life.
• Train & Transform: If you’re ready to take the full journey of the Eight Limbs of Yoga, my Yoga Teacher Training offers an in-depth, life-changing experience that prepares you to share yoga with others and embody it more fully yourself.

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