Tapas

First day of October, and I am ready for a fresh start. September was, as usual, a diverse and demanding month. As many of you know, I now offer a full schedule of Yoga classes in several new locations around the La Ciotat area, and with this comes many new students.

Even after many years, I must work through my foreigner trepidations: introducing myself and class offerings while developing fresh relationships all in a second language.

Knowing there are several highly qualified teachers to choose from, at times I doubt my ability to meet the invisible and ever-changing expectations of people I have only just met.

But thanks to Yoga philosophy, I find the strength to continue along my path. You should know something about me: I am very determined and would never give up so easily on my life’s passion.

Although I may not speak French perfectly, I am committed to communicating sincerely and kindly. I remain true to my values as I bring energy and attention to my objective, which is to practice and promote an authentic, sustainable relationship to wellness of the mind, body, and spirit.

With that being said, allow me to introduce you to ‘TAPAS’, which is the third of the Niyamas. For reference, the Niyamas are a compilation of personal practices that are to be integrated into the daily life of anyone wanting to develop a meaningful Yogic lifestyle.

The Sanskrit word Tapas comes from the root tap, meaning to heat, to burn, to glow. It carries the sense of inner fire, discipline, austerity, and transformative energy. In yoga philosophy, tapas refers both to disciplined practices and to the inner purification they produce.

This is not to be seen as rigid rituals but an integration of true self-care. Developing the wisdom and strength to overcome mental, emotional, and physical obstacles that reduce spiritual clarity.

Tapas is not about negative self-judgements, a lack of compassion, or unnecessary constraints. Instead, it fosters discernment, enabling you to focus on living authentically while developing integrity, which can transform you into the person you aspire to be.

By enduring life’s many challenges, you will gain self-confidence, wisdom, and strength, reducing mental restraints and attachments.

Commitment involves developing a sustainable, authentic practice, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable—consciously avoiding negative thoughts, environments, and people, while directing energy and attention towards higher realisation.

Depending on your ability to see with an open mind, the fruits of your labour may go unrealised for many years. The inner force generated by tapas leads to clarity, strength, and spiritual insight.