Atha - both the instruction and the goal

Atha Yoganusasanum

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Atha. Now.

The first word of the first verse of the first chapter of the Yoga Sutra: Atha Yoganusasanum. Now is the time to practice Yoga.

· To begin.

· To be brave enough to take a leap, to embrace opportunity and possibility.

· To know that this is your moment.

· If not now, when?

· Are you waiting for the perfect time? Letting perfect get in the way of perfectly good?

This single word encompasses not just an instruction but also the goal:

· To be present.

· To be still.

· To be fully aware.

· With a sense of clarity.

· To be able to choose where we direct our attention and to hold it there.

”The term Atha signifies auspicious beginning, uninterrupted continuity and an appropriate end.” – T Krishnamacharya on Yoga Sūtra Chapter One verse 1