I just returned from a trip to Tokyo to visit my family. It was wonderful to reconnect with loved ones, but the rhythm of travel definitely shook up my usual routine. The hotel room I stayed in was tiny—so small that unrolling a yoga mat wasn’t really an option. My only movement practice during the trip was a few gentle stretches on the bed before falling asleep.
Between the jet lag and a lapse in self-discipline, it took me a few days to find my way back to my regular practice. It was humbling to notice how quickly my passion and focus had faded—and how tricky it can be to reignite them. My inner fire wasn’t completely extinguished, but it felt like it was flickering, struggling to stay lit.
I kept imagining myself holding a lighter with barely any fuel left, clicking and clicking, hoping to spark a flame. That’s where I’ve been lately—feeling the glitch, the hesitation, the frustration of trying to restart. Maybe you’ve felt this too? That moment where you wonder: How do I get my fire back?
This is exactly where the heart of yoga reveals itself.Yoga is so much more than just physical postures. It’s a way of living—a deep, holistic approach to cultivating balance, meaning, and connection in our lives. One of the guiding principles that helps me during times like this is Tapas.
What is Tapas?
Tapas, a Sanskrit word meaning “heat” or “discipline,” refers to the inner fire that fuels transformation (“What is Tapas? – Definition from Yogapedia”). It’s not about pushing ourselves harshly or forcing ourselves into a rigid routine. Rather, Tapas is about steady, intentional effort—a devoted warmth we bring to our practice, even when the spark feels faint. It invites us to reconnect not just physically, but mentally and energetically as well.
As the Indian poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar once said, “The more you heat gold, the more it becomes better qualified.” In yogic terms, the disciplined energy we generate through practice helps burn away impurities, revealing clarity and purpose. Cultivating Tapas supports us in refining our habits and staying committed to what truly matters.
It’s not about having an iron will, but about showing up consistently—with presence, care, and a willingness to grow.
Practicing Tapas on the Mat
On the yoga mat, Tapas manifests in various ways. It’s the commitment to show up for your practice even when you don’t feel like it. Try these tips to stay engaged with your practice.
Consistent Practice
- Making time for regular yoga sessions, even if that’s five minutes.
- Staying focused during practice. Leave a cell phone out of reach!
- Spice up your practice with new poses, but respecting your body’s limits.
Breath Work
- Maintaining a steady and deep breath throughout the practice.
- Using breath as a tool to stay present and grounded.
Holding Poses
- Pushing through mild discomfort in poses, rather than immediately giving up and notice how you feel.
- Building strength and endurance gradually.
Bringing Tapas into Daily Life
Tapas isn’t limited to the yoga mat. It’s a life philosophy that can transform your daily routine and long-term goals.
Setting Intentions
- Defining clear, achievable goals. Need guidance on how to set an intention? Check this blog post: Discovering Sankalpa
- Breaking down large goals into smaller, manageable steps.
Mindful Choices
- Making conscious decisions about diet, sleep, and screen time.
- Prioritizing activities that align with your values.
Consistent Effort
- Staying committed to daily habits that support your well-being.
- Working diligently on your projects and relationships.
Overcoming Obstacles
- Using challenges as opportunities for growth.
- Learning from setbacks and continuing to move forward.
Bringing Tapas into Aspects of Life
Morning — Waking up at a consistent time, engaging in a brief meditation or journaling.
Work — Staying focused, setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks effectively.
Health — Maintaining a regular exercise routine, making nutritious food choices.
Relationships — Actively listening, showing empathy, resolving conflicts constructively.
Personal Growth — Reading daily, taking courses, practicing a hobby.
Reference
- “What is Tapas? – Definition from Yogapedia.” Yogapedia, https://www.yogapedia.com/definition/5365/tapas. Accessed 1 May 2025.