In India, the birthplace of yoga, travelers on narrow, forested roads often find themselves face-to-face with elephants, particularly under the cover of night. In such moments, drivers—whether navigating cars, auto rickshaws, or buses—know to stop and maintain a respectful distance. This mindful pause prevents startling the majestic creature, which could provoke a charge. Patience becomes a virtue for both drivers and passengers, who, in the dim light, watch the gentle movement of the elephant's rear as it moves slowly and deliberately back into the embrace of the forest. Himalayan yoga teacher and retreat leader Silvia Baratta recounted waiting behind one such elephant while living in India. Observing its rear end blocking the road, she envisioned what this mighty creature might be doing with its trunk. She imagined the sweeping motions and the rhythmic sway of the elephant's trunk, considering whether it could be removing debris. In that moment, a pr...