One of the greatest misconceptions we hold is that our happiness is dependant on something external from ourselves.

However, true, lasting, and meaningful happiness is an internal state of awareness, a concept referred to in yoga sacred wisdom texts as 'atma suprasiditi,' or the complete satisfaction of the self.

These texts, preserved and handed down by the sages of the yoga tradition, reveal profound insights into the nature of happiness. These sages, often forest dwellers, cultivated their wisdom by observing the patterns of plants, the changing seasons, and the behavior of animals. They felt a deep personal connection with nature, finding lessons in the Sun, Moon, stars, rivers, and mountains. Their teachings were often conveyed through analogies derived from nature. 

One of these lessons that has become especially meaningful in my own life is the analogy of the musk deer. Native to the Himalayas, the musk deer is known for the enchanting scent that comes from a substance within a furry pouch near the animal's navel. During its breeding season, this aroma becomes very strong and the scent is so alluring that the deer itself becomes attracted to it and begins to search for its source.

The deer becomes so captivated by this aroma that it begins to run through the forest, running to the point of exhaustion and even collapse, failing to recognize that all along the scent was within its own self.

Just like the musk deer, happiness resides within our own selves and the journey within will bring us closer to that source of happiness.