Niyama, Tapas (Burning Effort)

In Light on Yoga, tapas is defined as ‘the conscious effort to achieve ultimate union with the Divine and to burn up all desires which stand in the way of this goal. A worthy aim makes life illumined, pure and divine. Without such an aim, action and prayer have no value. Life without tapas, is like a heart without love.’

Tapas is burning enthusiasm and effort toward the one true goal of spiritual enlightenment. It is the commitment, consistency and discipline we engage in during every thought and act that brings us closer to attaining that goal. It is the inner heat that burns up distractions that dissuade us from our intent.

We apply tapas by putting devotional energy into everyday living that helps us reach our aspirations. Committing ourselves to our yoga practice and meditation with regularity, mindfully eating what is healthy for our bodies, and studying spiritual books that nourish us are forms of tapas. When we say ’no’ to the second glass of wine or a cigarette and ‘yes’ to time spent in nature or helping a friend, we are practicing tapas.

Engaging in tapas is a form of respect for ourselves to make choices that serve our growth process. Sometimes the choices may seem difficult on the surface or at the present. But when we step back from the moment, pause and remember our one true goal, our choices become less sacrificial and easier to make because the residual effect is more fulfilling.

Kayendriyasiddhirashuddhiksayah tapasah.  (The perfection of the body and sense organs is due to intensity in spiritual practice, being the elimination of impurities.)

-Patanjali Yoga Sutras ii:43

Namaste.