Yoga and Freedom from fear
In this righteous way no endeavor is wasted and no obstacle prevails; even a little of this practice protects one from great dangers
Roy Eugene Davis, The Eternal Way: The Inner Meaning of Bhagavad Gita- Chapter 2.40
Fear of present and future circumstances, including transition from the body and other-realm conditions is dispelled. Commentary on same verse by Roy Eugene Davis
In writing this blog post I have a chance to look back at prior episodes of The Yoga Hour, find themes that we have covered, and highlight some prior episodes you may have missed. We often talk on the show about the benefits of the practice of yoga. By “the practice of yoga”, I mean having a regular practice that includes yoga postures and meditation, as well as practicing the ethical principles set forth in the Restraints (Yamas) and Observances (Niyamas).
Although there are many benefits to practicing yoga, one of my favorites has always been listed in verse 2.40 from the Bhagavad Gita, where it says, “even a little bit of this practice (of yoga) removes great fear”. The benefits of yoga in reducing fear have been discussed in several prior episodes of The Yoga Hour, from many different perspectives.
-In “Transforming Ourselves and The World Through Selfless Service” from 6/10/21, Nipun Mehta and I discussed Karma Yoga, selfless service, and how providing small acts of service can help us awaken compassion and overcome fear.
- In “Nurture Active Hope and Make a Difference” from 10/6/22, Chris Johnstone and I discussed navigating climate change without fear or despair.
-In “Overcoming Barriers to Spiritual Awakening” from 3/2/23, Swamini Svatmavidyananda discussed FOMO, the fear of missing out, and how we can shift our focus from instant gratification in the changing external world to focusing on the unchanging spirit.
This idea of the practice of yoga helping us to overcome fear is very compelling and comforting to me. What is it about doing yoga and meditating that would protect one from great fear? When I have a regular meditation practice, and when I take that practice off the cushion and into the world, I am living by a larger truth. I know that I am greater than my body, mind, and ego. I feel my connection with Oneness, that source and substance of all that is. I am in touch with the silence and peace within and carry that with me wherever I go. Of course, I do forget this connection, and still do get caught up in fear and reactivity, but I believe it happens less often than it used to. Roy Eugene Davis, in his commentary on this verse says: “Even a little right practice facilitates spiritual growth that brings the soul into harmonious relationship with the actions of grace and the currents of evolution.”
If you are a regular listener to The Yoga Hour, you have heard about the many benefits of meditation, and have been encouraged to begin meditating, or to recommit yourself to a meditation practice if you have taken a break. In addition to the ultimate spiritual benefits, there are numerous health benefits from meditation, including lower blood pressure, improved sleep, and reduced anxiety, and we can add protecting ourselves from other kinds of fear. Now is a great time to begin!