There are 3 energies affecting us all
As real and organic as nature’s call
They are at play practically all the time
Like wind, rain, moon, and sunshine

They influence our mood, action, and thought
If we analyze them it can help us a lot
Let us explore the names of these energies
And come to grips with their bold tendencies

The first one is SATTVA, its Sanskrit name
It is positive power we should welcome and aim
The special feature here is to be very mindful
Sensitive, patient, rational, thoughtful

The next energy goes by the name RAJAS
A power that seems to always embrace us
Characterized by passion, restlessness, speed
The aligned sex impulse can push us to greed

Finally we arrive at the trait called TAMAS
Known typically by the element of darkness
Lethargy, inertia, slowness contribute to being dull
Productivity and intelligence are almost void and null

Turning the world around, hidden or in our face
These 3 psychophysical energies do have a place
RAJAS is necessary to build or to produce a baby
Harness it, channel it, or we’ll go somewhat crazy

With TAMAS we sleep, RAJAS, we work hard
With SATTVA we regulate and show we are smart
It becomes a concert, a good balancing act
With this trio you can approach life with tact

These 3 get highly competitive, so keep an eye
I believe you know what to prioritize and why
Filter all decision making through the mode of SATTVA
Then RAJAS and TAMAS will fall where they ‘oughta’

About the Author

Bhaktimarga Swami, born in Chatham, Ontario, Canada, is also known as “The Walking Monk” for having trekked four times across Canada.  Keeping with the spirit of pilgrimage, he also crossed the USA, Israel, Ireland, Guyana, Trinidad, Mauritius, and the Fiji Islands.  Documentation of his Canadian walks is found in two films:  The Longest Road, by the National Film Board of Canada, and Walking: The Lessons of the Road, by Michael Oesch. Please visit his website to explore his projects, writings, and itinerary.

Images courtesy of Miguel Á. Padriñán and The Walking Monk website.