Freedom Quote by Judith Hanson Lasater
““Don't believe your thoughts; they are just neurotransmitters locking into receptor sites, not reality. ... As I studied and practiced more, I began to see that this emerging freedom from the tyranny of my thoughts was the only real freedom. ... This is a key to living yoga. Watching thoughts of anger, greed, boredom, impatience, I was no longer at the mercy of them. I had some space to choose what I would say and do in a way I never had before. I began to recognize patterns; I began to take it all more lightly. By learning to relax, I experienced less physical tension, which allowed me to see my monkey mind, which allowed me to let go of it a bit, which allowed be to feel more connected to the present moment, which is another word for the Infinite.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Art of Living Yoga, Judith Hanson Lasater, 1995
Thoughts are mental events, not facts; recognizing this creates freedom to respond rather than react, fostering presence and inner peace.
In simple terms: Thoughts aren't reality; noticing this gives freedom.
Observe thoughts, then choose actions mindfully.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- stress reduction
- meditation practice
- conflict resolution
- daily decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice observing thoughts without judgment?
- What habits help maintain this space in stressful moments?
The quote may oversimplify complex mental health issues; not all thoughts can be easily detached.