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Yoga is more than the practice of the asanas or poses. It is a complete philosophy from ancient India. Just as when we fail to practice the asanas, our body begins to feel at dis-ease, so will our mental health, when we fail to remember the other aspects of yoga.
We often go through our busy lives unaware of others around us and the effects that we may have on them. I was made aware of the effect of my words on others several Christmases past. With aching feet, I was frustrated at my failure to find the "perfect" gift for my family members. I stopped at a local grocery store for items for my supper. When the young cashier asked me how I was, I honestly told her I was cranky from my shopping. She froze not knowing how to respond to me. The man behind me looked at me then down at the floor, not knowing what to do. I had made two strangers uncomfortable with my words.
I was determined to never do that again. When people tell me to have a good day, I tell them I am having a great day, and that, in fact, I have a great life. I see first surprise, then, delight in their faces. And their day has improved. I am not a pollyanna. And I do have my worries and frustrations. But, you know what? I do have a great life, filled with many great days. Many of the people, tellers and cashiers, friends and strangers, now smile when they see me because they know that I will be positive and friendly toward them.
The first pada or chapter in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras brings us sutra I:33:
The mind becomes clear and serene when
the qualities of the heart are cultivated:
friendliness toward the joyful
compassion toward the suffering
happiness toward the pure
and impartiality toward the impure.
(translation from Alistair Shearer)
Try this experiment: Each day for a week, when you get up, resolve to feel friendliness toward others, compassion to those who are not happy, happiness for those who are successful, and non-judging towards those who have chosen poorly in their lives. Observe how this makes you feel.