Although ignorance is the ultimate obstacle to our liberation, the other two that go hand-in-hand are aggression (or hatred) and greed (or desire).
When we are wrapped up in our own selves at the expense of others, we want more and more and we cling to what we have. This causes energetic knots to develop in our heart center and we become less and less sensitive and open to love. This causes suffering. When we are aggressive we are operating from the same mindset, but there is an added element of fear. By acting out on this fear, we perpetuate this falsity and close ourselves off once again to love.
A powerful antidote to break through those energetic knots are backbends. Even more powerful is vinyasa karma. Ultimately, this sacred asana practice is meant to teach us to detach from our likes and dislikes. By treating each pose equally and with a steady and calm mind (aided by our breath) we work towards conquering hatred and desire.
However, as yogis we are called to examine deeply the root of the issue. If we do so, we realize that both aggression and greed are caused by fundamentally misunderstanding the basic principle that all of creation is interconnected and interdependent. Both lead to an attitude of exploitation. To heal this foundational ignorance, one must radically change how one views life - and one's actions. This is why David and Sharon, and many others, believe that leading a vegan lifestyle - or working towards one - is a solution. This lifestyle paradigm is rooted in an inclusive understanding that all sentient beings, and our Earth, deserve our mercy and kindness. It also sees that being compassionate with other humans isn't enough - we must go to the root impulse of exploitation in order to heal. And that extends to all of life.
PRACTICES
1. Vinyasa Krama
2. Ethical Vegetarianism
3. Backbends
