Every month at Evolution Yoga studio, the teachers designate a theme to contemplate and share with each other and our students. The theme of the month at evolution yoga studio is “tapas.” I know I know–your thinking fancy Spanish appetizers right? Well it is also sanskrit for “a burning desire for bliss.” Bliss, what kind of bliss? Well, this is up for discussion and interpretation. My own persistent desire lately has been to get myself organized for the new year. I have been diligently writing in my day planner, buying my books for class, writing this new website, and dusting the corners of my apartment. Busying myself with the details, I had a little revelation the other day. What fuels the tapas? What am I striving for, and what is the purpose behind this fire? Is my time spent reflective of my own truth? Satya, last months’ theme, is a sanskrit word which means truth. When I paused and made time for the activities I value, I started to see the integral connection between tapas and satya. When we cultivate satya, we can use this inspiration to fuel our tapas, inviting a deeper integrity into our lives. This month, make time to think about what you truly value and authentically stoke the fire.