Have you seen “Enlighten Up?” The documentary that follows one young man’s exploration of Yoga? It’s not a bad movie. I think it probably captures what many Western yoginis feel about their practice and the elusive nature of the relationship between the physical work and its spiritual benefits.
One of the bonus features is the extended interview with B.K.S. Iyengar, who gives us this little gem, speaking of the physical work, the asana practice, as preparatory work for the spiritual: “It is a preparation, but everything is inherent in it.” This is my favorite moment of the film. Mr. Iyengar began studying Yoga because he was a very sickly child. He practiced Yoga to improve his health and it wasn’t until after years of practice, when he reached his twenties that he felt restored and strong. When asked about his learning of and interpretation of yogic philosophy, he replied that he didn’t really embrace it until later in life, in the 1960’s, largely because it was impractical to his goal of getting well when he was younger. “Who has time for philosophy when you’re ill?” If you’ve read “Light on Yoga” you understand Iyengar’s approach to Yoga asana practice as a tool that promotes good health, strength, physical vitality.
But “everything is inherent in it.” I take this to mean asana practice is, or can be, about more than physical preparation. I take it to mean the exercise of yogic philosophy can happen within the physical practice. Iyengar teaches us that Yoga is the union of body and mind with the soul. In a way, that union can happen whether we are aware of it, or whether we try to achieve it or not. This is the happy irony of a Yoga practice and is also something reflected in the film: we try so hard, we reach for, strive for, yearn and move toward what we think we are supposed to achieve and the Indian gurujis smile and laugh at our labors.
“Everything is inherent in it.” It’s not out there, waiting for us to reach it. It’s in us. It’s in our practice. Just keep practicing.