Into the Fire: Tapas and the Art of Transformation

In this episode of On the Mat, we step into the fire of Tapas, the third Niyama of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Far from Spanish appetizers, Tapas translates as “to burn” - not like the destructive blaze of a wildfire. Instead, it’s the controlled heat that purifies, strengthens, and transforms us.We’ll explore how Tapas shows up in chosen practices like building new habits, as well as in life’s unexpected challenges that force us into growth. Along the way, we’ll unpack the difference between healthy self-discipline and harmful self-punishment, and how to approach discomfort as a teacher rather than an enemy.From saying no to what doesn’t serve you, to sitting with the heat of change, Tapas is the discipline that helps us shed what we’ve outgrown and step closer to our Highest Selves. On and off the mat, it’s about intention, love, and transformation through the fire.https://substack.com/@onthematwithleahDownload this week's freebie! https://on-the-mat.kit.com/7784d1075b