In Yoga, in general, you are invited to nurture yourself through your thoughts and body movements to make the practice pure bliss. In some instances, you may find that committing to something which is outside your comfort zone (ie: meditating for longer or pushing through runners lunge) is actually what you needed and you find you get more out of the practice. This is where Tapas comes in.

The word TAPAS is formed from the root “TAP” which means “to burn”, “to radiate”, “to be consumed by fire”. Fire is the symbol for the ardent desire or for the invincible will to achieve something.

However, this desire or will must be exerted in a totally detached and patient manner, renouncing the fruits (the results) of your actions (consecrating your effort to the Supreme Cosmic Consciousness).

Therefore TAPAS implies an ardent effort directed toward a defined purpose. TAPAS is realised through discipline and austerity, i.e. through a conscious and sustained effort to resist all temptations and to overcome all obstacles that stand between you and your goal.

Tapas inclines persistance and perseverance. So wether it is a choice to practice Yoga daily, fast once a week or even choosing to stay silent for a certain amount of time, through dedication and discipline you may reap great rewards.

See original article here.