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Aparigraha - The Art of Non-Attachment
Dear Glow Community,
As September arrives, the air begins to shift, colors soften, and the first hints of autumn whisper at the edges of our days. Traditionally, this was a season of gathering what we’ve grown and then releasing what no longer serves, just as the trees prepare to let their leaves fall. In the Chinese Five Element tradition, autumn is connected to Metal, the element of clarity, breath, and letting go. It’s a time when the lungs (taking in what is new) and the large intestine (releasing what is old) guide us toward balance.
The yamas and Niyamas are the yogic take on human values and ethical practices that help us reach our full potential for personal, spiritual, and professional growth, and to liberate us from the repetitive cycle of suffering. When we live in contradiction to the highest values, when we avoid taking the higher road, we get stuck in a rat.
In yoga and Buddhism, we practice Aparigraha, the principle of non-grasping. Aparigraha teaches us to loosen our grip on what we cling to out of fear, habit, or nostalgia, and instead to trust the cycle of life. Just as the earth exhales in autumn, we too are invited to exhale and to let go.
This September, Aparigraha meets the equinox. It’s a season to notice what you’ve been holding onto too tightly, an identity, an expectation, a relationship, or even a version of yourself that no longer feels aligned. The gift of Aparigraha is spaciousness: when we release what we don’t need, we make room for what truly nourishes.
As the yogic wisdom reminds us:
“Non-attachment is not when we own nothing, but when nothing owns our peace.”
As you practice this month, may your time on the mat become an offering of surrender. Imagine your breath as the wind through autumn trees, carrying away the old, clearing space for clarity, courage, and inspiration.
Take a breath. Then ask yourself these 5 Aparigraha-Inspired Reflections for September:
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What am I ready to release in order to breathe more freely?
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Where am I clinging to old stories, habits, or roles that no longer serve me?
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How might letting go create more space for peace and creativity?
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What do I truly need to carry forward into this next season of life?
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Can I trust the cycle - that endings are also beginnings?
We’re here with you this month to practice in presence, gently, steadily, courageously.
I look forward to seeing you in classes this month as we breathe together, release together, and step into the balance of autumn. 🍂
Sending so much love. Let's stay curious about self-care that serves our well-being, connection, and growth in every area of our precious life ❤️❤️❤️
Natasha & Glowing Team
The material on my blog cannot be shared or quoted without my reference. Thank you for reading!
SPIRITUAL RESOURCES WE LOVE:
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Adyashanti recordings - he has many recorded sanghas I like listening to on my walks >
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The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer (constantly, on repeat - it's a lifelong reminder) >
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Weekly recordings from the Spirit Rock The Heart Wisdom Podcast of Jack Kornfield >
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The Spiritual Psychology teacher Michelle Chalfant's Adult Chair Podcast >
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