Unveiling Tranquility: Taoism and the Yoga Sutras on the Path to Inner Stillness

Freedom from distraction can seem like such a tall order to be able to find a place of inner calm has been the pursuit of many. To remain quiet in oneself, without the internal clogs churning, to remain calm even when we are surrounded by external things vying for our attention, can seem impossible, but there is guidance out there to help us on our path. The path is really the path of freedom, freedom to choose for ourselves where we put our efforts, freedom to choose what we let distract us, and freedom to choose whether our minds run us or we run the mind.

Taoism and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali offer us a path through, both texts are of different origins and have

Many of us have long embraced the pursuit of inner calm and freedom from external distractions. Taoism and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali are two examples of ancient ideologies that provide insightful advice and useful instructions to help us succeed in our quest. Despite having different origins and points of view, these ideologies share ideas that offer a guide to achieving inner peace. Let us delve into the main ideas that can help light the way in our quest for serenity and self-realisation.

Learning about the Tao and Yoga: Taoism, a Chinese philosophy, places a strong focus on living in harmony with the natural order. The Tao, also known as The Way, emphasises the oneness and interdependence that underlie all of reality. Similar to this, the Patanjali Yoga Sutras serve as the cornerstone of traditional yoga and lay out a methodical route to enlightenment and inner peace.

Recognising External Distractions:

Taoism advocates focused observation and acceptance of the natural world while avoiding attachments to external needs and cultural expectations. Taoists seek peace of mind and reduce their reliance on external influences by aligning their lives with the cycles seen in nature. Similar to this, the Yoga Sutras explain how vrittis, or thought fluctuations, are obstacles to inner stillness and self-realisation. Recognising these distractions is essential to releasing oneself from their grip.

Detachment and Non-Attachment:

The importance of detachment and non-attachment is emphasised in both Taoism and the Yoga Sutras. The Tao Te Ching teaches the concept of wu-wei, which stands for effortless activity or non-action. Taoists find peace and harmony by giving up control and allowing events to happen naturally. In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali promotes vairagya, or non-attachment, as a means of transcending our ties with material things and experiences. Through practising non-attachment, we can cultivate inner peace and liberation from our cravings.

Taoism and the Yoga Sutras both emphasise the importance of meditation as a potent method for developing inner quiet. Taoist practises like qigong and meditation seek to align oneself with the natural rhythm of the Tao, which results in a profound sense of calm. Patanjali describes dhyana (meditation) in the Yoga Sutras as a way to calm the mind, achieve mental clarity, and achieve the state of samadhi—deep stillness. Regular meditation enables us to find a calm centre despite life's complexity.

Self-Realisation and Unity:

At their core, both philosophies aim for self-realisation and harmony. Taoism places a strong focus on realising one's true nature, which is entwined with the Tao, the fundamental principle of the cosmos. Taoists encounter unity with the cosmos by aligning with the Tao. Similar to this, the Yoga Sutras direct practitioners towards self-realisation (kaivalya), which enables them to transcend mental fluctuations and recognise their true nature. This realisation promotes a feeling of harmony and oneness with all of life.

The pursuit of inner quiet and gaining a sense of freedom from distractions from the outside world transcend time and circumstance. Taoism and the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali offer us insights and practises to help us on our journey through this life. By integrating meditation, mindfulness, detachment, and a deep connection with nature, we can navigate our own path towards inner peace and self-realisation. We must just keep in mind that this path is personal and calls for personal inquiry, perseverance, and an open heart.

Gem xox