“Where your talents and the needs of the world cross, there in lies your vocation”. Aristotle
It seems that I have been on the eternal search for my purpose in this life (Dharma in Yogi terminology). The search has been long but I think I have finally realized and accepted my mission, my purpose, in life. As a physician (cardiologist) for the past 15 years, my “job” has been to “treat” heart disease.That mission and all its challenges continues. It has been at times difficult and frustrating.However, I have learned two important lessons through my yoga life.One, I am doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing at this moment. When we find ourselves frustrated with what we do, the task is not to necessarily change what we do but perhaps how we do it. Do it with all your heart and without judgement. This has made all the difference.
My second lesson was that all my life experiences, including medical training and yoga teacher training have led me to my Dharma which is the integration of traditional medicine and yoga to facilitate health.The “treatment” of heart disease or any disease for that matter requires much more than traditional medicine alone. It requires understanding and acceptance that health is often achievable without drugs but requires active participation, accountability and desire to be healthy. It requires treating the whole person – body,mind and spirit.
I now know that my Dharma is to teach all those who I can about the natural healing powers within us and around us and where necessary and appropriate, an integrative approach to health and healing.The goal is the same – the approach is the difference.