For some Easter is a day to celebrate the belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is also associated with the Jewish holiday of Passover, which commemorates the exodus of the Jews from slavery in Egypt. And then there are the many Pagan symbols associated with Easter like the egg which represents new life and the Pagan goddess Eostre who was considered by Anglo-Saxon’s as the Goddess of Spring or Renewal.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali says “These mental modifications are restrained by practice and non-attachment.” So to attain peace of mind we need to practice (as in the asanas of yoga) and release (Yoga Sutra I-12). The Bhagavad Gita (VI-35), also states, “It is undoubtedly very difficult to curb the restless mind, but it is possible by suitable practice and detachment.”
So if we wish to rise toward our highest selves we must release what we no longer need. If the religious stories don’t resonate with you then look to Mother Nature. The beautiful flowers and colors of Spring are a result of Autumn. What dies in the Fall becomes compost for what is reborn in Spring.
So our Easter Yoga Theme is to let go in order to grow. The Yama is Aparigraha or non-possessiveness and non-grasping. The postures include heart-opening poses, hip openers and Goddess pose. And our meditation will be on letting go of something to make way for new growth.
Karma Yoga Nashville 