Dharma—The Universal Principle
(Pictured: Paige practicing by the Ganges River, Rishikesh)
What is Dharma?
At its core, Dharma is a pillar—a support system that upholds life and the universe. Much like the pillars of a house support the roof, Dharma represents the cosmic laws and natural order that allow life to exist harmoniously. Without these supports, the structure collapses. In the same way, without Dharma, life becomes chaotic and misaligned.
Dharma encompasses universal principles, such as the cycles of day and night, the seasons, and natural phenomena like gravity. These natural laws remind us of the order and flow inherent in the universe. From a yogic perspective, living in alignment with these principles fosters harmony, while straying from them can lead to disease, disappointment, and imbalance.
Dharma in Practice: Aligning With Nature
One of the key teachings in yoga is that a yogic lifestyle aligns us with the rhythms of nature. Practices like Surya Namaskar (sun salutations) are perfect examples. Traditionally performed at sunrise, facing the east, these sequences honour the natural rhythm of the sun’s journey and help synchronise our internal biology with the external world.
Similarly, cleansing practices like nasal irrigation (neti) or abdominal churning (nauli) in Hatha yoga are designed to support the body’s natural processes. These techniques help remove obstacles, allowing the body and mind to function as intended.
By living in alignment with nature and our true essence, we cultivate health, vitality, and happiness.
The Universal and Personal Aspects of Dharma
Universal Dharma
On a macrocosmic level, Dharma is the universal force that defines the natural flow of the universe. It creates duality—day and night, yin and yang—allowing us to understand our purpose within this grand system.
Svadharma: Your Personal Dharma
Zooming in, Svadharma refers to the unique purpose or role each individual is born to fulfil. From the moment of birth, our constitution, skills, and tendencies shape our path. Our environment, experiences, and innate qualities guide us toward a meaningful life. Listening to this inner calling helps us align with our unique purpose and flow effortlessly through life.
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How to Discover Your Dharma
1. Follow Your Joy
One of the simplest ways to uncover your Dharma is to notice what lights you up. It doesn’t have to be grand or career-focused. Joy can be found in the small moments—cooking, walking in nature, or practicing yoga. These sparks of happiness often point us toward our purpose.
2. Embrace Change
Dharma isn’t static. What brings you joy at 20 may not be the same at 40. Be open to evolving and exploring new interests as life unfolds.
3. Listen to Your Inner Voice
Through yoga and meditation, we can quiet external noise and tune into our inner guidance. This process of self-inquiry helps us reconnect with our bliss body (Anandamaya Kosha) and uncover the joy that resides within.
4. Start Small
If life feels heavy or uninspired, begin with small steps. Find one activity that brings you joy—whether it’s reading, gardening, or spending time with a pet—and let that be the seed of your Dharma journey.
5. Find Meaning in the Everyday
Dharma doesn’t always have to be life-altering. It’s about bringing purpose and intention to everything you do. Even seemingly mundane tasks can be meaningful when performed with mindfulness and devotion.
Want to Learn More?
Listen to the full episode, Dharma - The Universal Principle, on the Om Som Yoga & Ayurveda podcast for a deeper understanding of dharma’s role within yoga practice.
Ready to align your movement and purpose? Join our upcoming 100 Hr Asana Sadhana Dharma — a focused journey blending traditional asana, meditation, and Ayurvedic wisdom designed to help you embody your highest dharma with strength, clarity, and presence.
