The king-yogi paradox
Many of us find ourselves in a world where we're surrounded by polarising messages of hustle culture and liberation from the evil matrix of capitalism. We feel an intrinsic pull towards chasing two mysterious and seemingly contradictory rabbits, scurrying off into the bushes in different directions.
One of the rabbits compels us down a path of kingship. On that path we strive for material success, very tangible results like money and fame, and we seek relative power and influence that is represented in clear and distinct ways in our outer world.
The other rabbit compels us down a path of yoga.
I’m not talking about back-bends and tree-poses. I’m talking about yoga in the traditional sense of the word: the physical, mental, and spiritual practices or disciplines which aim at transforming body and mind to reach an ultimate goal of liberation and transcendence.
That yogic pursuit often comes with a passionate outcry of, “Screw all this material crap!”
At least initially, in the stages of judgemental self-righteousness. Trust me. I've been there. Most of my yoga teachers and mentors have been there too.
And even if you think you’ve never done yoga or aspired to be a yogi, there has probably been a part of you that has said, “Screw all this material crap - I just want to transcend this and simply be at peace.”
Until of course, that voice gets shut down with another voice that says: “I could be a badass entrepreneur / rock-star / leader / etc. and I want to rule the world, bitches!”
Therein lies the paradox.
And I've observed that most people who are stuck in this find themselves constantly and erratically jumping back and forth between the two.
And we all know what happens when you chase 2 rabbits.
No? Ok, I'll tell you. You catch none.
And you suffer.
So, a question I had meditated upon for many years was, "How do we choose between the 2 rabbits?"
Until I evolved that question to:
“How do we reconcile those 2 sides of ourselves - the desire to be not at all of the world, and a hunger to rule it and have it all?
Here's a thought.
Maybe the King and Yogi is actually a false dichotomy, and not a paradox at all.
When we embrace our potential as a reflection of the infinite universe, that we are both a part of and one with, we can begin to fathom the notion that we can be kings or queens with an empowered leadership in our own world; and we can maintain a yogic spirit that transcends our attachment to the power and rewards of that kingship.
I've experienced this integrated approach coming to life through daily decisions that pay tribute to both the king and yogi within us.
When facing business or career challenges, the critical inquiry becomes:
"Is this merely for personal gain, or does it also serve and uplift the collective?"
In the face of conflict, the yogi's wisdom prompts responses of empathy rather than hostility, exemplifying the king's dignified restraint.
My journey has certainly demanded a dynamic balance between action and reflection, and I suspect it may be the case for you too.
Certain times may call for the king's decisive leadership, bold choices, and assertive actions. Equally, there may be moments for the yogi's guidance into contemplation, where quiet and introspection bring about clarity and rejuvenation.
Weaving together the king's ambition with the yogi's insight crafts a life rich in both success and significance. It requires the audacity to chase our dreams while deeply rooted in our spiritual essence.
Leadership then transforms into an act of power and love, vision and wisdom, strength and serenity.
On this path of integrating the king and yogi, there is the ultimate revelation to be found:
True power and peace lie in mastering oneself.
The king and yogi, once seen as a paradox of divergent forces, can stand as the strongest allies in the pursuit of a life that is as meaningful and fulfilling as it is prosperous and influential.
Are you embracing both your inner king and yogi, or perhaps oppressing one or the other? I'd love to know your thoughts and reflections on this.
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