Exploring the Concept of Saucha in Yoga Philosophy: Purifying the Mind, Body, and Soul
Saucha, translates to ‘purity’ or ‘cleanliness’ is a principle that holds immense significance in the yogic journey.
Within the walls of our yoga studio, Saucha takes on a tangible form. Maintaining cleanliness and tidiness in our sacred space is all part of practising what we preach and honouring the philosophies and traditions of yoga. When you step into the space, you’re greeted by an environment that emanates purity and tranquility that supports your practice by inviting you to let go of the outside world. A clean and tidy yoga studio not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes a sense of wellbeing and focus, which makes it easier for our students to cultivate mindfulness and dive deep within your practice.
You'll always find our mats neatly rolled and carefully placed on the shelf, hemp-side out. Bolsters and blocks stacked away neatly on the props shelf. Blankets are folded precisely and pillows neatly packed away... You may notice the teachers encouraging you to do this. And while this is nice aesthetically, the underlying lesson is to encourage you to practice mindfulness and Saucha.
Once you leave, the teachers carefully rearrange the props to ensure they're left neatly, brush over the floors, clean up any left over incense dust and candle wax and sage before they leave. This is part of their own practice of Saucha.
Saucha can be practised at home too. As you declutter your physical space, organise your surroundings, and create an atmosphere of simplicity and beauty, you invite a sense of calm and tranquility into your life. A clean and harmonious living space acts as a mirror to your inner state and supports your spiritual journey.
"The body is your temple. Keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in. - B.K.S. Iyengar
Saucha can also inspire our behaviours around how we treat our bodies. By purifying your physical body through a nourishing diet, yoga practice, and proper hygiene, you create a solid foundation for the transformative power of yoga to unfold in your life.
Beyond the physical realm, Saucha invites us to purify (declutter) our mental landscape. It urges you to let go of negative thought patterns, self-limiting beliefs, and emotional baggage that hinders your growth. By observing your thoughts mindfully, you can create a clean and fertile ground to cultivate peace of mind.
Embrace the yogic philosophy of Saucha, by cultivating daily rituals that nourish your body, mind, and soul. You might explore meditation, pranayama, and other practices to cleanse your internal landscape, and dedicate time to decluttering your living space to create a sanctuary of purity and serenity. This attitude can extend beyond your own body and mind, as you practise mindfulness when interacting with your external environment – treading gently and carefully with the world around you and everything in it.
By nurturing the spirit of Saucha, we create the opportunity for a deeper connection with our authentic selves.
Would you like to learn more yogic philosophy?
Our Breathwork & Yoga Teacher Training is not just for those who would like to teach yoga. The course offers seven months of regular contact and workshops to guide a deeper knowledge and understanding of yoga philosophy - and importantly support along the way to apply this to your daily life.
Starting on Saturday 6th April with payment plans available. Head to: https://www.mydrishti.com.au/yoga-teacher-training to enroll and for more information. Or feel free to reach out to me directly and have a chat.
Blessings, Love & Light,
Carolina and the Drishti Tribe