Guest guest Posted July 29, 2003 Report Share Posted July 29, 2003 Aum All: I've been thinking about the issue of East and West in terms of Shiva and Shakti. Which is greater? Which came first? Which knows more? Recently a post-er made a comment that just learning about yoga is only one part of Indian spirituality. How necessary is it for those in the West to completely and fully understand every little bit and nuance of Eastern thought/teachings, and vice versa, in order to know the Self? I propose that when one feels compelled to see the "two" in conflict as East vs. West, consider the "two" as Shakti and Shiva, which are actually only One. They symbolize the energies within each human being that require harmonization for the Self and the self to commune successfully, as "inseparable companions, individual self and the immortal Self perched on the branches of the self-same tree." -Mundaka Upanishad It is also correct to point out any misalignments (power abuses, failures of recognition, animosity) between the "two" as a way of furthering the process of harmonization, if such pointing out can offer effective alignment instructions as in the Iyengar method of hatha yoga. Based on my direct experience in yoga, basic alignment principles of the body/mind/emotions/spirit bring self and Self together, even without scripture. While certainly scripture and traditions of many kinds can help, some can also hinder. Just wanted to share these thoughts I had today. Namaskar All. Love, Mary Ann Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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