The word Sangha is used in both yoga and Buddhism and refers to a community. In the context of this writing, I am referring to the yoga sangha, meaning a group of yoga practitioners, whether in person or connected online.
While it’s normal and beneficial for humans to have time alone, I believe we are meant to live in connection with others. I don’t mean that you can’t live alone, but rather, we’re meant to be part of a community. It could be a work community, faith community, neighbourhood community, friend group or family. This group can look different for each of us, but some form of feeling the connection to and support of a group can improve our lives.
I woke up very early this morning (it was still dark). I had some pain in my shoulder and soreness in my neck which prevented me finding a comfortable position and then my mind got busy thinking about work, a podcast I had listened to in the evening about authenticity, and so on. I spent a few restless hours, shifting positions and mulling over life in general. I never did get back to sleep.
Finally, about half an hour before the alarm was due to ring, I gave up and did some reading. Then I rolled over and snuggled up to my husband. Right away, I felt my body relax and my mind followed suit. I could feel myself softening into sleep but I couldn’t allow it because the alarm went. I realized that this was an example of sangha. That feeling the connection to another human, especially one that I felt close to and safe with, helped to dissipate the NS alert and allowed me to relax.
Suddenly all the solitary questioning, and dissecting of the last couple of hours seemed so much less important. I was reminded that I wasn’t alone, that I didn’t have to “go it alone” and that my life was a gift to be shared and his life was a gift to be received.
That got me thinking about the value of Sangha. It is certainly possible, and sometimes valuable, to practice yoga alone. But there is a beauty to the group practice, even online. We share energy, ideas, and feedback. Often someone will make a comment that informs not only the introductory conversation but also the entire class flow, mentally and physically. There is a deep sense that we are all sharing a journey of self-discovery that is broader and deeper because we are in it together. We lift each other, and we support each other in applying yogic and somatic philosophies to our personal values and actions in daily life.
I have to admit that one of the reasons I look forward to our classes is that I’m interested to hear what the sangha will say next. It always provides food for thought. It takes each of us beyond our own experience and allows us to entertain other perspectives. And being part of a group brings a sense of support and strength.
That said, I have no plans to give up my personal practice, but even that is peppered with taking classes from other teachers. I don’t have all the answers. I am not perfect. But somehow, being part of a sangha helps me to find perfection within all of us.
Perhaps that is the true power of sangha. Singly we are each a haphazard puzzle piece that sits lost and alone on the sidelines. Together we click into place and create a gorgeous tapestry–a piece of art.
We’re better together.
What do you think?