A yoga teacher’s review of The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz. This book is perfect for anyone, especially self-improvement enthusiasts and fans of motivational literature. These four simple rules offer practical advice to achieving personal freedom and happiness.
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Introduction to the 4 Agreements
As yoga teacher, I am always looking for inspiration to theme my classes.
On my commutes to yoga gigs, I usually build my playlists or listen to audiobooks to keep my sessions fresh and exciting.
I came across this book recommended on Audible. It has come up from time to time while I was browsing Pinterest for good reads, and I finally decided to press play on it.
Let me just say…
This book packs a punch in its brief 2.5 hour run time!
If you struggle with communication and self-esteem, this book is a swift and enlightening read to help reshape the way you perceive your thoughts.
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
Paperback or Hardcover: 138 Pages
Audiobook: 2 hours, 31 minutes
Overview to the 4 Agreements
Published in 1997, this book is a staple in the Self-Help genre.
Don Miguel Ruiz is a Mexican American author who writes books that serve as spiritual guides to help people live more centered and fulfilling lives.
From his Toltec Wisdom Series of 6 mindful books, The 4 Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom helps to unbind us from miscommunications that arise from society’s expectations. By unlearning patterns of toxic thinking, we find mental clarity and nonjudgement in everyday interactions.
I’m going to briefly list the famous 4 Agreements followed by my favorite takeaway from each chapter.
#1: Be Impeccable with Your Words
Your words have weight to them. Ruiz describes human speech as “magic,” White and Black. Using words to spread negativity and gossip would fall under “Black Magic” spells that cause destruction, while uplifting and positive words are “White Magic.”
#2: Don’t Take Things Personally
If someone has an issue with you, then the issue is actually with them. By taking things personally, we are accepting the spell caused by their not so impeccable words.
For example, if someone were to call you stupid and you internalize it, then you fall under the spell of their unkind words. However, we can choose to shrug off their insult and leave their words powerless.
#3: Don’t Make Assumptions
This rule builds off of the first 2 Agreements.
Ruiz begins the book by reminding us that our brains are always dreaming, even when awake.
Making assumptions is basically internalizing small interactions, taking a small gesture into your lalaland and possibly communicating your assumptions out into the world, which will physically bring the “spell of words” into existence.
#4: Do Your Best
My favorite!
Your best can vary from moment to moment. If you’re feeling sick, then your best won’t be the same as your best on a good day.
Do your best to choose kind words wisely, don’t take anything personally, and to not make assumptions.
Should you slip on one of the other 3 agreements, then start over with your best in mind.
Summary
Overall, this book is a 5/5 for me!
After listing the 4 Agreements, Ruiz touches on Toltec wisdoms in which he describes every person as a child wearing adult masks when faced with responsibilities.
Our internal child beams through our eyes when we are happy and having fun. When we are placed in a serious setting like work or court, then our adult side takes the wheel.
The version I listened to is complete with a thoughtful and grounding Prayer/ Meditation at the end of the book. I found this very useful when incorporating the lessons from this book into my classes.
I especially love the fact that Don Miguel Ruiz is a Mexican American author, spreading the ancient teachings of the Toltec people. Being Mexican American as well, I feel a sense of pride knowing I can also share some of these Toltec Wisdoms in my yoga classes.
Thanks for Reading!
