Yoga philosophy begins with the spirit. Getting in touch
with your spirit is the true goal of yoga. It occurs naturally
when your mind quiets and you are able to access the
inner wisdom that emerges from the deepest aspect of
your being. One way to connect with your soul is by con-
sciously asking yourself questions that go to the heart of
the human experience. There are three key questions
that help shift your internal reference point from ego to
spirit. They are:
Who am I?
What do I want?
How can I serve?
Whether or not you are aware of it, these questions are
directing your choices in life. Regularly bringing your
current answers to conscious awareness enables you to be
alert to the opportunities that resonate with the needs of
your soul.
When asked the question, Who are you? most people
usually identify themselves in terms of their positions
and possessions. You might say, “I am the chief financial
officer of a software company,” or “I am a high school
math teacher.” You may identify with where you live,
saying, “I am a New Yorker,” or “I’m Canadian.” You may
identify yourself in terms of a relationship by responding,
“I am the assistant to the president,” or “I am a mother.”
Although we all have the tendency to identify ourselves
with roles, objects, and relationships in our lives, yoga
encourages us to go deeper into our being and find
the inner place that is beyond external anchors. This is
the source of all energy and creativity in life. When
you begin to recognize that your essential nature is
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