Let us begin by reading these opening words of Verse 29 of the Tao Te Ching as translated by Stephen Mitchell...

Do you want to improve the world?
I dont think it can be done.

And as you continue to allow these words to reside within you. You’ll be glad to know that on Tuesday, May 29th, 2012. Nyla Moore read us the entire 29th verse of the Tao Te Ching during the beginning of her Essential Basics yoga class at Yoga Pura.

Of course, if you’ve been following along then you already know that she read this verse on Sunday as well. The only difference being who it was translated by.

In any case, this particular translation resonates with me in regards to my yoga practice. The reason being is...

I want to improve my world and all that is around me. Yet, through this practice of yoga I realize that it can’t be done.

Indeed, when you continue to read this translation of the Tao te Ching it states...

The world is sacred. It can’t be improved.
If you tamper with it, you;ll ruin it.
If you treat it like an object, you’ll lose it.

And I want you to understand, just understand that through the practice of yoga, you will discover that your body is sacred. It can’t be improved.

That the more you try to manipulate it, the more likely you are to injure or ruin your body.

Simply stated, treat it like an object and sooner or later you’ll lose it.

Just in case you are wondering...

If the above is true then why even bother with this practice of yoga?

Interesting enough, the Tao te Ching goes on to state that there is a time for being...

Ahead
Behind
In Motion
At Rest
Vigorous
Exhausted
Safe
In Danger

Hopefully, if you practice yoga long enough you’ll realize this on the yoga mat.

Because when you do, it is at that point in your journey where you will find yourself empowered to shape and create your own life.

And if you find yourself wondering what the difference between improving your world or being empowered to shape and create your own life.

Feel free to allow yourself to meditate on these words from Verse 29 of the Tao te Ching...

The Master sees things as they are without trying to control them. She lets them go their own way and resides at the center of the circle.

In the end, I’m just thankful that I’ve been blessed with extraordinary yoga teachers like Nyla Moore at Yoga Pura. Teachers that allow me to see the truth of these words in my own way and at the time when I am ready. And they do this while residing within the center of their own Beingness.

Big Love Always,

Thaddeus