SSE Week 03: Satya
Introduction to Satya
This week, we’re learning about the second yama, or ethical principle: Satya! TRUTH!!! But it’s more than just speaking honestly — satya involves the decisive use of keen discernment and clear vision to formulate itself.
Through a process of inquiry, we can each determine our own truth, while taking into consideration the opinions, needs, and rights of those we love, the people around us, and the world at large. And from that truth, we can then act with integrity, kindness, and non-violence to insight meaningful change, both within ourselves, and out in the world.
Diving deep for the truth, our own truths, is a process that requires a deep understanding of ahimsa, or non-violence, as well. Satya, paired with, ahimsa, allows us to engage with the rest of the yamas and niyamas, and the yogic path as a whole, more fluidly and effectively.
Nicolai Bachman states: “When satya is practiced with nonviolence, the remaining yamas and niyamas become much easier [….] Satya with ahimsa means clear, honest, appropriate, and helpful communication that considers the short- and long-term consequences [….] When thought, word, and deed are the same, they are focused like a laser beam, and our intention is much more likely to come true.”
Home Exercise: Satya
This week, take some time to do the following:
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Create an image of what a lie “looks like” to you
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To get you started, perhaps list out common traits of a lie, or how you feel when you lie; be as petty as you’d like!
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Grab hold of whatever medium you desire (clay, paint, markers, pastels), and tap into your inner artist. This would also be a great activity to do with kids:
“When our hearts and minds are clean and unbiased, we perceive accurately and communicate clearly.”
– The Path of the Yoga Sutras
Watch this Week’s Video
Bring Satya into Practice

Sharable image for Facebook

Sharable image for Instagram
Practice: All Levels Yoga
2020-06.24_AllLevels-Satya from be the love on Vimeo.
Practice: Gentle Yoga
2020-06.17_Gentle-Ahimsa from julie on Vimeo.