The Story Behind Tittibhasana

In the rich tapestry of yoga philosophy, countless stories have been passed down through generations, each offering unique insights and lessons about ourselves and our world.

These tales, though varied in their versions and interpretations, share a common purpose: to inspire and guide us on our journey of self-discovery and growth.

Today, I share with you two such stories – the different tales of the Tittibha birds and the background of Tittibhasana. Let these narratives awaken your curiosity, inspire reflection, and encourage you to see your own life from a new perspective.

Story One: Habits & Perspectives

Setting the Stage:
Once upon a time, in ancient India, there lived a pair of small, flightless birds known as Tittibhas. The Tittibha birds, a husband and wife, resided near the ocean. Though they were small and delicate, they possessed a strong sense of duty and resilience.

The Nest by the Shore:
Every day, the Tittibha couple would build their nest on the sandy shore of the ocean. Despite their efforts, each high tide would sweep their nest away. Undeterred, they would rush to rebuild their home every 12 hours, only to see it destroyed again.

The Gods’ Gift:
The gods, feeling sorry for the Tittibha birds and their relentless struggle, decided to bestow upon them the gift of flight. This gift held the potential to change their lives, allowing them to escape the cycle of destruction and rebuilding.

Stuck in Habit:
However, the Tittibha birds were so entrenched in their habitual behavior that they never took a moment to fly up and see their surroundings. They continued to rebuild their nest by the shoreline, unaware that moving just a few feet back could save their home from the rising waters.

Vayu’s Intervention:
Finally, Vayu, the god of the wind, decided to intervene. He sent a strong wind to sweep the Tittibha birds up into the air. As they soared above the shoreline, they gained a new perspective and saw the error of their ways. They realized that if they only moved their nest a few feet back, it would be safe from the high tide.

Awakening:
With this newfound perspective, the Tittibha birds made the change they needed. They relocated their nest away from the shoreline, where it was safe from the ocean’s waves. This simple shift allowed them to work smarter, not harder, ensuring the safety and stability of their home.

Moral of the Story:

The tale of the Tittibha birds highlights several key lessons:

• Perspective: Gaining a higher perspective can reveal simple solutions to persistent problems.
• Change: Breaking free from habitual behavior can lead to better outcomes.
• Work Smarter: Sometimes, a small adjustment in approach can make a significant difference.

In the context of yoga and life, the story of the Tittibha birds serves as a reminder to occasionally step back, gain a broader perspective, and be open to making changes that can lead to more effective and sustainable results.

Story Two: Perseverance & Faith

Introduction:
Once upon a time, in ancient India, there lived a pair of small birds known as Tittibhas. The Tittibha birds, a husband and wife, resided near the ocean. They were small, delicate creatures, yet they possessed a strong sense of duty and resilience.

The Eggs by the Shore:
One day, the Tittibha couple decided to lay their eggs on the sandy shore of the ocean. Despite the wife’s concern about the safety of their eggs, the husband assured her that their nest was perfectly safe. He argued that the ocean, vast and mighty, would never reach their humble abode.

The Ocean’s Fury:
However, fate took a different turn. During high tide, a large wave swept in and carried away their eggs into the deep waters. The Tittibha birds were devastated. They mourned the loss of their unborn chicks and were determined to retrieve their eggs.

The Birds' Plea:
The Tittibha birds pleaded with the ocean to return their eggs, but the ocean ignored their cries. They then approached other birds and animals, seeking their help to recover the lost eggs. Although many sympathized with them, they were reluctant to challenge the mighty ocean.

The Tittibhas’ Determination:
Despite the initial refusal from other creatures, the Tittibha birds did not lose hope. They decided to empty the ocean themselves, one beakful of water at a time. The sight of the tiny birds attempting such an impossible task eventually caught the attention of Garuda, the king of birds and the vehicle of Lord Vishnu.

Garuda's Intervention:
Moved by their perseverance and dedication, Garuda approached the Tittibha birds and asked them why they were engaged in such a futile endeavor. Upon hearing their story, Garuda was deeply touched and decided to help them. He promised to confront the ocean and retrieve their eggs.

Garuda Confronts the Ocean: Garuda, with his immense power and authority, commanded the ocean to return the Tittibha birds' eggs. He threatened to dry up the entire ocean if it did not comply. Faced with Garuda’s wrath, the ocean had no choice but to return the eggs to the Tittibha birds.

Conclusion: The Tittibha birds were overjoyed to have their eggs back. Their unwavering determination and the assistance of Garuda ensured the safety of their unborn chicks. This story became a timeless lesson about the power of perseverance, the importance of seeking help, and the strength of collective effort.

Moral of the Story:
The tale of the Tittibha birds highlights several key lessons:

• Perseverance: Even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, persistence can eventually lead to success.
• Collective Effort: The combined strength of many, especially when led by a powerful and just leader, can overcome great obstacles.
• Compassion and Support: Helping others in their time of need can bring about positive change and justice.

In the context of yoga and life, the story of the Tittibha birds serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in our efforts, seek support when needed, and believe in the power of unity and determination to achieve our goals.