There is a sweet mudra we can practice anytime to remember that we are nothing but the ever-shining light of Self. It is called Tejas mudra.
Tejas is synonymous with radiance and radiance is what emanates in the human being as that “je ne sais quoi”, which according to the English dictionary is; an intangible quality that makes something distinctive or attractive. Something indescribable.
Self is the indescribable intangible something that we cannot see but is ever present. It is the flameless light in whose presence the enormity of creation plays out. Right now, it seems as though the light is gone. So much suffering and divisiveness, it’s too much too bear and yet in different spheres we try to move forward. Actualising peace in our own lives while praying for universal peace.
The teachings of the Veda/ Upanishads start with the premise that peace is ever present as yourSELF. There is nothing you can do to be peace. You already are the peace. All the suffering, hate and division is the by-product of ignorance.
Because we don’t know ourselves as peace itself, ever present, radiant, the true gift of every human being, we assume there is a path to peace or a path away from peace.
Assuming that peace is a goal to attain sets us up for disappointment. Peace is never in an object, place or time. Objects, places and times are always transient and changing. Nothing relative is permanent.
How long does relative peace last? As long as human beings remain in the dark about their true nature and purpose the conflict continues. We take an idea we have created of ourselves to be real. Namely believing in the word “I”. I am this or that. We never stop to ask… Who is this “I”?
As long as “I” remains a mystery, we can’t stay peaceful.
But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do everything we can to foster peace in the world.
That’s why yoga practices like mudra have a purpose and power. They serve as active reminders. When I hold this mudra, and my nervous system calms down. I remember myself as peace itself.
As you move into your week, on this beautiful new moon and deep celebration of Diwali, the return of light and beauty through the goddess Lakshmi, I offer you this sweet mudra
May peace be with you
Rachel and John
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