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:

Create an image of what a lie “looks like” to you
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!
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: