Tapas: Austerity

Tapas in Sanskrit refers to “burn,” or “fiery discipline.” Yoga requires mastery over the hindrances that inhibit our spiritual growth. By devotion to our studies, we will develop the techniques necessary to lead to an enlightened state of being. Following the practices outlined in Patañjali’s Yoga Sutras will encourage, at the very least, a healthy body and mind, open and willing to accept and apply new information in a non-discriminatory way. By observing tapas, we will allow creatively to flourish when austerity is added to our study and practice.

Although fierce discipline is required to master any trading strategy, time is also needed to fulfill other obligations. Family, friends, pets, and the garden all need attending to, and including them in a holistic model of health and wellness will contribute to our full potential. Committing to the realization of Self will be met with many challenges. The struggle ensues out of attachment to a predetermined path to our goal. Having intention and directing our attention is imperative to success; however, pushing our ideas on to process does not allow creativity, intuition, or synchronicity to carry us into inconceivable states of bliss.

Tapas and Trading

In order to study and master techniques that will allow us to flow with the dynamic, living, and chaotic nature of the markets, we must be confident with the unique characteristics of whatever investment product is in question—stocks, bonds, futures, or other financial instrument—and how our strategies will interact with them.  Market behaviour has been interpreted by numerous individuals and we should find which analysis techniques suit us best. Simulation trading is an excellent way to test our strategies, build our confidence and act with conviction. Our true trader has been found when we feel we are ready to enter real-time trading and express ourselves in the marketplace.