This month we explore a niyama from the Hatha Yoga Pradipika: MATI or self-reflection. Mati invites us into the practice of deep self-inquiry: a commitment to exploring our values, questioning our unconscious patterns, and aligning our actions with our aspirations.

It challenges us to pause and reflect: Are my actions in harmony with what I claim to value? Or am I caught in contradictions that keep me stuck?

By practicing mati, we observe the gaps between what we value and how we behave. We illuminate the triggers that cause reactivity, the beliefs that breed resistance, and the habits that hold us back. This self-awareness isn’t about self-criticism—it’s about recalibrating and creating a clear path toward well-being and authenticity. This month, let’s embrace mati as an opportunity to dig deep, align our actions with our values, and clear the way for growth.

Audio-only version: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tzBpBNq8VayV0nNYGIkxSZEzvebz-nOk/view?usp=sharing

Ways to cultivate mati (your homework!)

1. Daily Reflection: At the end of each day, ask yourself: What value did I honor today? What challenge stretched me? What stirred feelings of defensiveness or discomfort? This can also be paired with Daily Intention setting in the morning.
2. Meditate: Even five minutes of undistracted "you time" can help you know yourself and inquire within. Just sit with yourself and observe with tender awareness.
3. Practice Yoga: Use your practice as a mirror to notice what you’re holding onto and what you need to release.
4. Journal: Capture your highs and lows each evening. Let your writing be a space to explore patterns, celebrate progress, and identify where you need support.
5. Seek Insight: Choose books, podcasts, or talks that speak to the qualities or challenges you’re working on. Reflect as you absorb new perspectives. Be sure to apply your insights instead of just accumulate insights!

In addition to exercises and worksheets I created and have previously shared with you here, here are a few additional worksheets I like for determining and working with your values:
https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/Core-Values-Worksheet.pdf
https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/Setting-Valued-Goals.pdf
https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Finding-My-Values.pdf
https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Personal-Values-Worksheet.pdf
https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Values-and-Problems.pdf