Parinama

The principle of transformation is found both in Science and in Yoga.  “Everything is in a constant state of transformation, digestion, assimilation, and change.  There is a rhythm, pattern and frequency to the transformation… But the moment itself of transformation from one state to another, from one quality to another, from one form or level of consciousness to another is always a leap, a jump of an incomprehensible velocity outside of time… like when one cell divides into two.” *  

It is difficult for this transformative moment to be measured as it is happening.  It happens in a leap that often cannot be captured by time.  It can only be observed after it has happened.

I was taking class the other day, where everyone was chanting with the teacher except this one gentleman.  By his demeanor, it appeared as though this gentleman was not chanting because we was absolutely not going to chant.  And we have all been That gentleman.  But then one day out of nowhere you find yourself chanting.  It just happens.  In a leap, a transformation takes place and you notice only after.  Like one day after so many years of trying, you are finally up balancing on your forearms in forearm stand.  In a leap, there you are.  What changed – when and how – you can’t pin point it.  And yet that transformation had a rhythm, pattern and frequency.  It had an evolution.

The practices of Yoga try to provide a rhythm, pattern and frequency for change/transformation (parinama). For many years I was always angry.  Then suddenly I was less angry.  Meditating daily, reflecting daily on the teachings of Yoga, daily asana practice, inverting daily – provided a rhythm, pattern, and frequency to give change a certain direction.  

It is inevitable that things are changing all the time.  But it is not inevitable that things have to change for the worse.  

*Sacred Geometry by Robert Lawlor

After Thought:

Master Patanjali's Yoga Sutra Chapter 3, Sutra 9 - Sutra 10

The body and mind operate on certain existing patterns, in how they perceive and respond to the world. These patterns gradually change through the practice of Yoga, rendering moments of clarity alongside moments of cloudiness.  Through the repetition of the practices of Yoga, over time there will be less cloudiness and more clarity.  Recognizing this shift is a way to measure our progress.
(The Heart of Yoga, T.K.V. Desikachar)

Through the practices of Yoga, as we observe & work with all that is in a constant state of transformation, we also come to know (have greater clarity) of that in us that is not subject to change, that which is eternal.