09/06/2026
So I've been pondering something. 😂 (again)
I've been looking at the gunas from yogic philosophy and how they parallel with our nervous system states.
Were they describing the same thing in just a different language?
I don't know.
Maybe.
Maybe not.
I'm not here to make bold claims, but I can't help noticing some fascinating parallels.
The yogic teachings speak about the three Gunas: Rajas, Tamas, and Sattva.
🌪️ Rajas is often described as movement, activity, restlessness, striving, and energy.
🌙 Tamas as heaviness, inertia, withdrawal, stillness, and rest.
🌱 Sattva as clarity, harmony, balance, and presence.
And every time I read those descriptions, I find myself thinking:
"That sounds familiar."
Maybe the maps are different.
But they seem to be describing similar parts of the human experience.
And perhaps that's where the practice begins.
Not with trying to get rid of the Rajas.
Not with judging the Tamas.
But simply noticing.
This is your awareness.
This is your Svadhyaya (self-study, Self Awareness)
The practice of becoming curious enough to notice what's here.
Because none of these states are inherently bad.
We need Tamas to help us rest, sleep, and restore.
We need Rajas to get out of bed, move through our day, create, work, and take action.
The practice isn't about eliminating them.
It's about noticing when one has become dominant in a way that is no longer serving us.
Maybe the Rajas has become so strong that it feels like anxiety, restlessness, or an inability to switch off.
Maybe the Tamas has become so heavy that it feels like being stuck, withdrawn, or unable to get moving.
And from there, knowing where to take it.
If you're feeling particularly rajasic in a moment that calls for rest, perhaps your practice is slowing down.
✨A few deep breaths.
✨A restorative yoga pose.
✨A mindful walk.
✨A meditation.
✨A moment of stillness.
If you're feeling particularly tamasic in a moment that calls for energy, perhaps your practice is gently inviting some activation back in.
✨A walk around the block.
✨Your favourite song.
✨A little movement.
✨Some sunshine.
✨A conversation with a friend.
Not forcing.
Not fixing.
Just responding to what you notice.
🌪️ Rajas.
🌙 Tamas.
🌱 Sattva.
Which energy feels most familiar today?
And what might support you right now?
More activation?
More rest?
Or a little more space to simply be? 💚
💚 Little note:
This was originally a reflection I shared inside The Rest Club.
If you enjoy conversations about yoga philosophy, nervous system regulation, rest, self-awareness, and gentle practices, you're very welcome to join us.
There's a free membership option if you'd like to come and explore.
https://www.skool.com/the-rest-club-2960/about
