by Swami Ramananda
As we approach the shortest days of the year in the northern hemisphere, the need for light becomes more evident to us. Our world seems to be entering a dark period as well, characterized by the climate emergency, violence and protests, racial tensions, and an ever widening gap between political factions and the wealthy and poor.
From a spiritual perspective, darkness represents our fundamental inability to experience the truth, and it is the resulting illusion of separation and incompleteness that has given rise to human suffering. Clouded by this ignorance, we seek happiness and fulfillment by acquiring and achieving things in an unending search for security and peace.
Many of the holy days during December use light as a symbol for a Higher Power that can guide us through this spiritual darkness. For this reason, we chose to focus on seeking and holding onto the spiritual Light within, and as best we can, to live as a presence of Light in our world.
This effort begins with some form of spiritual practice that clears away the selfishness, confusion and attachment that veils our true nature, exposing the Light that is already present. This is not easy to accomplish, requiring a real commitment to let go of desires and temporary pleasures in order to experience deeper truths.
The teachings and practices of Yoga offer us a step-by-step approach toward this goal, and the presence of a “guru” can inspire the dedication and commitment to achieve it. The word guru literally means remover of darkness – one who has realized the truth and embodies our natural condition of contentment and compassion. Such a living presence is a tremendous blessing, radiating Light and Peace.
In the absence of a living guru, we can hold onto the teachings of the gurus, saints and sages, which are an ever-present reminder of our true nature and an unfailing source of guidance. If we are serious seekers, we integrate these teachings into every aspect of our lives. With persistent effort, we inevitably begin to experience for ourselves a natural joy independent of outer circumstances.
But we need not wait for some special experience to be a presence of spiritual values in our communities and we need not do great things to make a difference. Our inner Light shines outward each time we recognize with gratitude all the ways we are blessed, and allow that sense of abundance to overflow as generosity with others.
Each effort to remain peaceful in moments of conflict – be it an argument or a traffic accident – gives expression to our deeper Self. Speaking up against discrimination, reminding our families to recycle and avoid plastic bags, and lending a listening ear to someone in need, are all ways that we give voice to the inner Light.
Actions performed with genuine care for the earth and our fellow beings are healing for our hearts, and we find joy in giving rather than looking for a reward. We may need to touch this inner, spiritual Light again and again in prayer, meditation or by serving, to awaken it fully enough that it shines through us as we move through our days. This is how we give birth to peace in the world, and really bring our Yoga practice to life.
Swami Ramananda is the President of the Integral Yoga Institute in San Francisco and a greatly respected senior teacher in the Integral Yoga tradition, who has been practicing Yoga for over 35 years. Ramananda offers practical methods of integrating the timeless teachings and practices of yoga into daily life, and transforming the painful aspects of human experience into steps toward realizing one’s full potential.
He leads beginner, intermediate and advanced level yoga teacher training programs in San Francisco, and offers a variety of programs in many locations in the U. S., Europe and South America. Ramananda trains Yoga teachers to bring Yoga into corporate, hospital and medical settings and has taught mind/body wellness programs in many locations. He is a founding board member of the Yoga Alliance, a national registry that supports and promotes yoga teachers as professionals. His warmth, wisdom and sense of humor have endeared him to many.