Aparigraha is the concept of non-possessiveness, being both a Jain concept and a part of the Raja Yoga or Ashtanga Yoga traditions. The term usually means to limit possessions to what is necessary or important, which changes with the time period, though sadhus would not have any possessions. [Wikipedia]
Last week was moderation/celibacy, and this week feels much the same. Well, much the same except I have to do my holiday shopping. Trying to be non-posessive and limiting what I buy is an interesting exercise this time of year. Althought I do not shop much, and I have been much less inclined to purchase things in the past two years, this year I had intended to do some serious shopping.
So now I'm seriously shopping with thought, and thinking about what is actually important. We all are told that Christmas is not about the gifts, or what you get. Perhaps this is the year to start applying that philosophy.
What is necessary and important?
In this life I need to have some posessions. Car to get to work, clothes to wear, but do I need all that I have? More importantly do I need more of what I already have?
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