Amala Earth believes in a conscious way of living. 

But what is the meaning of conscious living? Who is conscious and who is not?

Living consciously is a lifestyle. It’s not something you do just once, but a habit that you form for the rest of your life. It is essentially the process of becoming more aware of yourself and making more informed and considered decisions in your daily life based around not only your own needs, but also the needs of the collective consciousness.

In times of crisis, as is currently the case with COVID-19, how can we live more consciously? Each one of us is experiencing a wide range of negative emotions of fear, insecurity, anxiety and stress. Self-care is of paramount importance at this time. So, it would be good to spend some time in reflection and understand ourselves so that we can heal ourselves and remain as positive as possible.

I have chosen here to turn to the solutions given by our Yogic traditions. Since all individuals have different constitutions and resonances, there is no “one size fits all” solution to handling crises. 

We are given four yoga paths to follow according to whatever feels right for us. These four paths are like the branches of a tree or tributaries of a river. They all have the same source and resting place. In essence, they are all the same.

To live consciously in these troubled times, here are some pointers that will help you choose the path most suitable to you during this time:

ARE YOU A KARMA YOGI?

This is the yoga of action, the path of selfless service.

Karma Yoga can be practiced anywhere, anytime where there is a desire to serve. It depends on the attitude, not the action.

Those who are action-oriented believe this path to be the most effective. Charitable actions, raising funds, free medical services, serving with time, are all actions that will fulfil a Karmic Yogi.

ARE YOU A RAJA YOGI?

This is a step-by-step approach of mind-control.

To alleviate the stresses and anxieties of this time, practising asanas, breathing techniques or looking towards meditation can be the answer for some. Those who are oriented towards purifying the mind and body in order to overcome life’s challenges will prefer this path. 

ARE YOU A JNANA YOGI?

This is the intellectual and philosophical approach to life, the yoga of knowledge.

Through the gaining of spiritual knowledge, one can analyse and understand the current crises from a different perspective. A new perspective based on acceptance and the understanding of the cycles of life can change the entire paradigm of the person following this path. Impermanence and the laws of cause and effect, also offer solutions to a peaceful mind. A person who belongs here is likely to see the pandemic as “this too shall pass”.

ARE YOU A BHAKTI YOGI?

This is the devotional approach of yoga and the path involves surrendering oneself to a Higher Power. Aspirants channel their emotions into devotion, developing humility, self-surrender and the feeling of being an instrument in the hands of the Divine.

Bhakti Yoga can be practiced in many ways - praying, chanting, japa (repeating a mantra or name of the Divine) and by participating in ceremonies and rituals. 

So which of these “conscious living” paths appeal to you the most?