Yoga Shaucha

Shaucha is the personal practice of cleanliness – of body, mind and spirit. At the physical level, shaucha applies to our surroundings and environment as well as our bodies. Keeping our space (our home) and our temple (our body) pure, we are able to move closer to feeling lighter and have more clarity - also knowns as pure consciousness.

Observing shaucha in our lives quickly brings the realization that this is a never ending quest. Judith Lasater - my teacher and author of Living Your Yoga beautifully explains that shaucha is in fact a practice, not a ‘perfect’: It’s a constant work in progress. Remember, it’s not about the destination, it’s all about the journey - and the journey builds our character, growth, and resilience.

5 simple ways to practice shaucha - purity

1. Declutter: start with clearing and organizing your desk at work and home, then look to declutter the whole house.

2. Eat clean: look at what you put inside your body and bring pure and nutritious foods into your meals and snacks.

3. On the mat: make a ritual of cleaning your mat following every asana - physical practice. Carry a natural spray bottle and small towel in your yoga bag or purse.

4. Breathe: pranayama is a sure way to cleanse and purify within. Practice nadi shodana - alternate nostril breathing daily to clear the internal energy channels and cleanse the nervous system.

5. Meditate: what better way to declutter the mind than daily meditation. Practicing any form of meditation helps calm and clear the head, and gives us glimpses of pure stillness. It’s easier than you think. Stay present with your breath, sit in stillness or walk and notice your surroundings, the sounds, birds, grass, wind, and hearing yourself breathe.

Love and purity,
Genia