Summary
In the final chapter of “Light on Life,” titled “Living in Freedom,” B.K.S. Iyengar explores the profound relationship between freedom and ethics. He explains that while political and economic freedoms are essential, spiritual freedom demands an even greater level of self-control and proper direction in life. This spiritual freedom, he argues, represents the ultimate freedom – the fusion of individual soul with the Universal Soul, achieved by releasing personal desires for a higher purpose.
The chapter delves deeply into two fundamental ethical frameworks: Yama (Universal Ethics) and Niyama (Personal Ethics). Through Yama, Iyengar discusses principles like non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, self-control, and non-covetousness. He emphasizes that these aren’t merely restrictive rules but positive practices that should emerge naturally from one’s core being. With Niyama, he explores personal observances including cleanliness, contentment, sustained practice, self-study, and surrender to God. These principles, he explains, work together to purify both body and mind.
Iyengar uses the metaphor of a river flowing between two banks to illustrate how life should be lived. One bank represents dharma (duty), while the other represents moksa (freedom). Between these banks flow the currents of love, pleasure, and prosperity. He explains how this relates to the Four Aims of Life (dharma, artha, kama, and moksa) and the Four Stages of Life (student, householder, elder, and renunciate), showing how ethical living naturally aligns with human development.
The chapter also explores the integration of ethical principles with physical yoga practice, particularly through asanas. Iyengar explains that ethical behavior isn’t achieved through forced adherence to moral codes but develops naturally through dedicated practice. He describes how each asana can teach ethical lessons – for instance, how balanced practice teaches non-violence, and how truthful alignment reflects inner truth.
In his conclusion, Iyengar reflects on his personal journey, sharing how yoga transformed his life from “parasitic to purposeful.” While his demonstrations of complex asanas may have appeared artistic, his ultimate goal was always to show how physical practice can lead to spiritual integration of body, mind, and soul. He emphasizes that nothing is accomplished forever – even after decades of practice, one must maintain the yogic fire that exists within everyone. The chapter ends with his hope that he has helped overcome the prejudice that Hatha Yoga is merely physical, showing instead how it can lead practitioners to the integration of body, mind, and soul.
Questions for reflection during the reading
1. Freedom from what, or freedom to what, does yoga allow us?
2. How does yoga help us overcome erroneous and illusory perceptions?
3. What is the connection between love, truth, compassion and ego restraint?
Insight from our session
In this final session, we explore Chapter 7, entitled “Living in Freedom,” as Dr. Agi Wittich guides us through Iyengar’s insights on integrating yogic philosophy into our daily lives. Key points discussed in this session include:
- The concept of living in freedom according to yogic principles
- The four aims of life (Purushartha) in Hindu philosophy
- The importance of Shavasana and its relation to time and identity
- The Yamas and Niyamas as ethical guidelines for yogic living
- Iyengar’s parting words and his vision for a life of continuous learning
