“Yoga is Not to Show, Yoga is to see.”

Sometimes, we consider asanas (physical postures) to be synonymous with yoga, striving to become like contortionists or gymnasts. However, from a spiritual perspective, yoga is about self-discovery. It is a practice meant to help us see ourselves more clearly, to shape and experience our inner world, and ultimately to experience the existing eternal bliss within.

Often, when we practice asanas and compare ourselves with others, we might think we are not progressing. The great sage Yajnavalkya says that yoga is a tool to see the self. While all our senses help us perceive knowledge from the external world, yoga helps us turn inward and experience our true nature.

As humans, we all desire success. When we are able to perform difficult asanas and receive appreciation from others, we feel proud. This is not wrong, but we should not stop our practice there. We need to delve deeper to find inner peace and be proud without relying on external validation.