Cleanse Journal Day 13

Yogic principle for the day: the external discipline of NOT GETTING WITHOUT GIVING.

What does this principle mean to me?
Achaurya is the Sanskrit word for “avoidance of stealing” or “non-stealing.” In Jainism, it is one of the five vows that all sravakas and shravikas as well as sadhus and sadhvis must take. Asteya is one of the 10 core principles that Hindus try to abide by. The concept is frequently confused as being equivalent to the Biblical commandment "Thou shall not steal" although in principle it means more. Asteya refers to not stealing, not coveting, nor hoarding, as well as not obstructing other people's desires in life.

Asteya presupposes that misappropriation arises from a perception of lack which arises from a belief that happiness hinges on external circumstances and material possessions. It is not uncommon to spend an entire lifetime hoping for better and imagining that others have better. We do not perceive the abundance, health, other riches and the joy and love , that exists.

The practice of asteya asks us to be careful not to take anything that has not been freely given. This can be as subtle as time or attention.

Swami Jyotirmanda of Miami's Yoga Ashram frequently states that "all the wealth of the world will be drawn to one who has mastered the practice and discipline of Asteya." Life's real treasures begin to flow our way.

How do I honour it on a daily basis? What could I improve?
Incorporate ahimsa into asteya, and avoid being so internally self righteous about my giving. Sometimes I feel I should conserve more, give less, give to those that specifically want my contribution, and not exploit myself.

I can cultivate self-sufficiency to avoid looking to others, our family, or our community to meet my needs. Do not take more than is needed.

Avoid subtle ways of taking from others:

• Being knowingly tardy to an appointment.
• Speaking on behalf of another.
• Directing the outcome of a mutual challenge.
• Taking all the credit.
• Focus on my abilities, gifts and strengths so not to rob myself.
  

Observations regarding the practice of my assignments:
Day 13 was, again, enjoyable. My body felt tremendously alive, once again, when I awoke. My skin is clear and glowing. I performed a neti-pot nasal cleanse. My forgiveness ceremony with Leslie went well Wednesday night.

Sleep record:
I was not tired Wednesday night, yet slept long, again.

Additional thoughts or feelings:
Otherwise, this is easy. I am at peace and optimistic about the future.