Yoga And My Experience Of Teaching In The West Europe

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Core Philosophy of Yoga:

Atma Devi views Yoga as a profound and expansive science, likening it to a distinct language operating on a higher level. While acknowledging its physical and mental aspects, she emphasizes that these are secondary to Yoga's ultimate potential. Yoga's initial stages often focus on stress reduction, problem-solving, and clearing internal misunderstandings. However, true Yoga, or "Inner Yoga," leads to a state of sublime purity where the practitioner becomes one with their deep inner core, transcending even advanced yogic states like Ananda-Maya Kosha and Turiya.

The Journey of a Yoga Practitioner:

The author stresses the importance of self-discovery in Yoga: understanding one's thoughts, feelings, and reactions to everything. Yoga demands a transformation in one's way of living, and practitioners must be prepared for these changes. As one engages in Yoga, both inner and outer practices, constant shifts in thinking, feeling, and acting are inevitable. The advice is to "flow" with these changes rather than resist them. Yoga's disciplines can be challenging, especially over the long term, and progress should be gradual. Quick results should not be expected.

Sakshiyoga and the Cultivation of Consciousness:

Atma Devi's teaching focuses on "Sakshiyoga," which goes beyond merely awakening Kundalini-Shakti. The primary aim is to awaken and consciously inhabit "Chiti-Shakti" – consciousness. She highlights Yoga and Tantra as superior sciences for discovering consciousness, expressing pride in their Indian origins. She believes that individuals need to learn about the body, diet, emotions, mental growth, and mind discipline, but more importantly, they must learn to "feel consciousness (Chit)" and "grow in consciousness (Chiti)." This universal power, she explains, pervades all sentient and non-sentient beings.

The Nature of Yogic Experience and the Role of a Guru:

The author acknowledges that a properly initiated seeker in Yoga can experience profound insights into Yoga, Samadhi, and "God." However, this journey can also involve periods of insecurity, unhappiness, and a feeling of life's meaninglessness or impurity. These are described as natural positive and negative shifts. The text emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in a Guru and God with a sincere heart, as this grace can help overcome negative karma and make the Yoga path joyful, despite inevitable struggles and hardships. The author stresses that genuine understanding comes from practice, not mere study. She draws a parallel with her Guru, Swami Kripalu, who, despite undergoing intense purification through Kundalini Sadhana, maintained good health and a cheerful spirit.

Critique of "Humbleness" in Western Yoga Teaching:

Atma Devi expresses a nuanced view on "humbleness," particularly in the context of teaching in the West. While acknowledging the genuine humility of some advanced gurus and students, she warns against those who use the guise of humbleness to mislead people. She admires Bhagavan Sri Rajneesh (Osho) for his candid approach to discussing gurus, yogis, Yoga, Tantra, religion, and spirituality, believing his teachings are particularly beneficial for the West and the East.

The Role of Yantras (Brief Mention):

The text concludes with a brief mention of the integral role of "powerful yantras" in Tantric practice. These yantras, described as geometrical designs symbolizing deities, are essential for a fuller, happier, and healthier life.

In essence, Atma Devi's contribution emphasizes the transformative, consciousness-centric, and deeply personal nature of Yoga, advocating for a gradual, self-aware journey guided by genuine spiritual principles and a critical understanding of those who teach.