Atita – the past 

«The future exists as an appearance in itself to be manifested. The past exists by an appearance of its own which has been experienced. The presente path of being alone is that which shows its own appearance as such» (Vyāsa-bhāsya, 4.12).

Reflections on the past should serve to better live the present and not be an end in themselves. History helps us not to make the same mistakes. Even if the conditions are always new, the human being is always the same and no matter how changed you may feel, there are parts of you that stagnate in the same ideas. Avoiding becoming aware of this stagnation implies the risk of seeking the change of perspectives outside of yourself instead of inside, embracing ideals or beliefs that do not necessarily belong to you. Study your history, but know how to draw the right lessons.

IN PRACTICE  

Hala-āsana, plow pose

When you say “digging up the past”

Awareness exercise

Whenever you get excited about something you read, see, hear, or someone, look at the qualities of that thing or person. What does it represent for you? Is it something you don’t have? Or that you have hidden or repressed? Or is it a means to distract attention from yourself?

Mantra of the month

«I look inside myself».