Imagine that you're on a road trip, driving towards a beautiful mountain range. As you get closer, you notice that there are several different routes to take to reach the place. Each route offers its own unique scenery and challenges along the way.
Similarly, the Yogi philosophy teaches that there exist different paths to reach the ultimate goal of development, growth and unfolding. Just as you might choose a route based on your personal preferences and abilities, each of us chooses a path that suits our individual temperament, personality, and disposition. What works for one person, won’t necessarily work for another.
So, if you were on the Yogi road trip and you get to that point where you have to choose which way to go, there are three options, known as The Threefold Path by the Yogis:
- Raja Yoga, or the path of mental development
- Karma Yoga, or the path of right-action
- Gnani Yoga, or the path of wisdom
For example, one person may be drawn to the path of mental development, which focuses on cultivating mental discipline and concentration. It's like taking a steep and challenging road to the summit that requires a lot of effort and discipline.
Another person may prefer the path of right-action, which emphasizes ethical living and performing one's duty in the world joyfully and without attachment to outcomes. This involves taking a route that focuses on enjoying the work you do, learning from it, and helping others along the way.
Another person may be interested in the path of wisdom, which involves studying the fundamental principles and truths underlying life. This is like taking an intellectual route, where the focus is on gaining insight and understanding into the nature of reality.
Regardless of the path we choose to follow, we have to take care of our physical body and appreciate the love for life, God, matter, reality, or however you call it.
Cherish and take care of your body. Oftentimes, we tend to overlook the value of good health when we're feeling fine. However, it's when we encounter health challenges in our loved ones or ourselves that we realize how precious it truly is. Without a healthy body, it becomes incredibly difficult to focus on other aspects of our life and make progress. You won’t be able to drive down those paths if your body doesn’t work properly.
You can show your love and appreciation by worshipping in a religious setting, like going to church and feeling the love of a higher power. But if that's not your thing. You can still connect with nature and the people around you. Take time to appreciate the beauty of a sunset, watch the birds, and love the people and experiences that bring you joy. We all always find something to love and appreciate.
We must develop on all our many sides. The majority of us prefer to gain a rounded knowledge, learning something of each road, giving preference of course to those paths that appeal to us more strongly. Do not get too extreme with any one path.
Just like on a road trip, it's up to each individual to decide which path to take. Some may prefer to stick to one path, while others may want to explore all of them. By keeping an open mind and trying different approaches, we can avoid becoming one-sided. The more well-rounded you are, the better. In the end, it's the journey itself that matters, and the experiences we have along the way that shape us into who we are.
