From Myth to Mat: How The Odyssey Teaches yoga
When I realized our upcoming MYTHOS retreat site, Lefkada Island, Greece, is believed to have once been Ithaca, the fabled home of Odysseus in The Odyssey, I knew this retreat would be a modern Journey of Self-Discovery. Homer’s epic poem easily can be seen through a yogic perspective, because so many of its themes restate yogic philosophy and practice. Add a few mythic characters like Circe, Calypso, Penelope and Athena to our list of teachers, and away we go.
Hero's Journey
The Odyssey is a metaphor for the spiritual journey of the individual, much like the hero's journey in yoga where one seeks self-realization and inner transformation, as exemplified by Arjuna in the Bagavhad Gita. Odysseus' quest to return home can be likened to the yogi's journey toward personal understanding and connection with the true self.
Obstacles and Challenges
Throughout his story, Odysseus faces numerous challenges and obstacles on his 10-year quest for home. Similarly, the practice of yoga often involves overcoming physical, mental, and emotional obstacles to reach a state of inner peace and balance.
Dharma and Duty
In the epic, Odysseus is portrayed as a hero who upholds his dharma (duty) despite the challenges he faces. In yoga, practitioners are encouraged to live in alignment with their dharma and fulfill their responsibilities while staying connected to their inner wisdom.
Mindfulness and Presence
The concept of mindfulness and presence is central to both yoga and The Odyssey. Odysseus' ability to stay focused, present, and aware in the face of trials reflects the importance of being mindful and present in the practice of yoga.
Symbolism and Allegory
The characters, settings, and events in The Odyssey can be interpreted symbolically and allegorically, much like the rich symbolism found in yogic texts and teachings. Exploring these deeper layers can offer insights into the human experience and spiritual growth.
Union and Harmony
The ultimate goal of yoga is union – union of the individual self with the universal self, and union of mind, body, and spirit. In The Odyssey, Odysseus' reunion with his family and homeland can be seen as a metaphor for the attainment of union and harmony within oneself.
I am so excited to create an embodied retelling of this story to help participants uncover deeper meanings, insights, and parallels with their own spiritual journey and inner transformation. This is the essence of the timeless poem and the enduring practice of yoga on and off the mat.
Want to join us in Greece for our retreat to Lefkada Island? There are two double and single occupancy spaces remaining for MYTHOS Greek retreat September 8-15, 2024. Maybe one is for you?