Often we think of yoga as being the practice of asanas or physical postures, in which case one may think that progress only pertains to our physical sphere.

However, this aspect of yoga is a stepping stone that facilitates our growth and development – in all realms of life, not just by becoming more bendy and flexible.

The totality of  yoga is concerned with the overall flourishing of one’s human personality. As much as anything else, our progress on the path of yoga is measured by how far we represent these following qualities.

Here below are the yogi’s list of the ten qualities of a dharmika (a follower of human dharma or expression of one’s true or highest nature.)

1. Dhriti (patience)

2. Ks’ama (forgiveness)

3. Dhamah (self-control)

4. Asteya (non-stealing)

5. Shaoca (purity & cleanliness)

6. Indriyanigraha

(control over motor and sensory organs)

7. Dhii (benevolent intellect)

8. Vidya’ (spiritual knowledge)

9.  Satyam’ (love of truth)

10. Akrodha (non-anger)

With continued effort and practice, all the above manifest with greater clarity within each and every practitioner. Our asanas, our meditation, our relaxation and more help bring us forward on the path.

Note: As I mentioned on another list-serve, just because my name is #9 does not mean that I am that. I think that name was given to me because I was so terribly deficient in that attribute

Wishing everyone well on the path to becoming a great dharmika!