This past Monday I woke early - early enough to see the sun rise, and early enough to hear grumbles of protest from those around me. I was giddy with anticipation - - Monday, you see, was Free Day of Yoga and I was raring to go. While so many studios in my area were offering classes throughout the day, my sights were on the kick-off event in Discovery Green, a little oasis of green in the midst of Houston's downtown. It would fill my morning with Yoga goodness and, being a sucker for practicing Yoga outside, I was hooked. Yoga outside + *3* back-to-back classes + a big group to practice with? There was no way I could pass it up.
It was a glorious morning - sunny, warm and just a hint of a breeze. When I arrived at the Park at around 8am there weren't a whole lot of people there yet. I saw a girl with a yoga mat sitting on a bench, and went up to talk with her. She didn't know where the group was meeting either, but we figured it would become obvious as the yoga mats (and their human companions) began to arrive in greater numbers. I went over and sat beside the water and watched as more and more yoga enthusiasts wandered over. A wooden platform by the water seemed to be where everyone was setting up. I unrolled my mat on the edge nearest the water and plunked myself down. I didn't stretch. I didn't assume any impressive asanas. I sat there with a big dorky grin on my face and watched everyone else. There is something wonderful about simply sharing the quiet company of others who share your passion - it's kind of like the amazing energy you ride when you meditate in a group, or how it feels to go on a photo shoot with other Photographers. I just sat there and basked in it. (and took a photo or two.... )
As we warmed up and settled in, a group of Indian musicians arrived to play for us. It was awesome. I wish I caught the name of the group, but all I managed to hear is that they are from a local Hare Krishna Temple. Sitting by the water, stretching a bit and soaking in the sounds of their music; it was fabulous.
We had three separate instructors for the three classes. The first, Nicole Haagenson, was energizing without being annoyingly bubbly. She led us through a practice where we built on each asana in Vinyasa-style, completing 5 of each pose. It was an incredible warm up, and I quickly noticed myself feeling more and more limber. There weren't any poses I was unfamiliar with, but she combined them in such an interesting way and it just felt very fluid. After Nicole, Achim Fassbender took over. WHOA. That was an intense session. He did a few poses that I hadn't done before - more like slight variations of familiar poses than brand new ones, and there was something about his style that pushed me to go further and deeper than I have before. By the time we ended in Pigeon, I was truly shocked at how open my hips were. Pigeon has always been a favourite of mine, but I felt even more connected in it than usual - - I don't know if it's the group energy, the longer practice or what, but I just felt so incredible in the poses. We ended off with the perfect wind-down and wringing out by Ann Hyde. She led us through poses that felt restorative and calming, and she just had this wonderful, peaceful manner. This is the first time I ever attended a class, I realized. I've been practicing on and off for years, and very passionately since January, but these are the first classes I've ever had the chance to attend. I loved it. LOVED it. I think I'm going to make a point of including some Yoga studio time into my practice.
Some pictures of the day ~ all of these taken before the classes began. I would have loved to have taken some shots during the class, but I wasn't getting off my mat for anything - not even my camera-happy spirit could drag me off this day.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
I'm still here
.... or perhaps, more accurately, I'm here again.
I truly gaped when I typed in the URL of this blog into my browser and noticed that, when up it sprang, mid-July was the date of my last post. Has it really been that long? Apparently so.
Life has been a bit of a whirlwind lately. Lots of change, and lots of new & exciting experiences for our family. Since this is a blog that I set up to be less about the parenting and kids side of my life, I'm not really going to mention much about it but it's all good and working out wonderfully for all.
I have many half-constructed entries that have been playing in my mind the last month, so I hope and intend to be more present here for the half dozen or so who may be reading. Now, though, Indian food awaits - - a FINE way to cap off an exciting and happy week.
I truly gaped when I typed in the URL of this blog into my browser and noticed that, when up it sprang, mid-July was the date of my last post. Has it really been that long? Apparently so.
Life has been a bit of a whirlwind lately. Lots of change, and lots of new & exciting experiences for our family. Since this is a blog that I set up to be less about the parenting and kids side of my life, I'm not really going to mention much about it but it's all good and working out wonderfully for all.
I have many half-constructed entries that have been playing in my mind the last month, so I hope and intend to be more present here for the half dozen or so who may be reading. Now, though, Indian food awaits - - a FINE way to cap off an exciting and happy week.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
hatha yoga on the beach
otherwise titled "yoga practice that ate my camera".
Ok, so it was the *sand* that, amusingly enough, you can see blowing past the camera lens that killed the camera, but let's not quibble.
Good things about this experience:
1. It was a REALLY nice practice. Very relaxing.
2. The focus was actually pretty good (unlike my previously posted headstand video).
3. I've learned that using a couple of books as a tripod on a windy beach? Not such a hot idea.
Ah, life and it's lessons..... ;-)
I like to video myself practicing every few months; it gives me a better idea of my form and how I am progressing. Next time, though, I'll choose a less sandy venue.
Ok, so it was the *sand* that, amusingly enough, you can see blowing past the camera lens that killed the camera, but let's not quibble.
Good things about this experience:
1. It was a REALLY nice practice. Very relaxing.
2. The focus was actually pretty good (unlike my previously posted headstand video).
3. I've learned that using a couple of books as a tripod on a windy beach? Not such a hot idea.
Ah, life and it's lessons..... ;-)
I like to video myself practicing every few months; it gives me a better idea of my form and how I am progressing. Next time, though, I'll choose a less sandy venue.
Monday, July 12, 2010
headstand
I've got lots that I've been meaning to write here, but computer time has been scarce lately. I want to quickly upload a video tonight, though - - I spent an hour on the beach tonight, doing yoga and meditating. I tell you, there is something about being on the beach ~ the sound of the waves, the Laughing Gulls, the feel of the sand ~ that is simply inspiring. I find myself so much more "in the zone", so to speak.
Here is a short clip of my headstand after I finished my yoga practice. I am really pleased by how strong my core is becoming; it makes it *so* much easier to get up into the pose. I'm also feeling much more confident, and able to hold the pose longer. It's coming along nicely!
My camera auto-focused about a foot in front of the camera. Let's pretend I was going for some hazy, Zen cinematographic style... ;)
Here is a short clip of my headstand after I finished my yoga practice. I am really pleased by how strong my core is becoming; it makes it *so* much easier to get up into the pose. I'm also feeling much more confident, and able to hold the pose longer. It's coming along nicely!
My camera auto-focused about a foot in front of the camera. Let's pretend I was going for some hazy, Zen cinematographic style... ;)
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
three good things
As part of a self-guided retreat that I began a few days ago (which I hope to write more on soon), I spend some time at the end of each day to reflect on three of the high points from the day. It's a simple exercise, doesn't take much time or effort, and is kind of a nice way to draw the evening to a close.
Today's Good Things ~
Today's Good Things ~
- Meditation this morning was wonderful. We did a Mindfulness practice, and it stretched me a bit beyond my usual comfort zone. It was great to see everyone again; I continue to marvel at how bonded I feel to these people who - just a month ago - were strangers to me. I am *so* grateful.
- A most delicious post-meditation half-caf Americano at Starbucks and the luxury of an hour alone with my thoughts, my journal & what is becoming a very absorbing novel.
- THE best raspberries I've had in my life. Well, except for maybe those freshly-picked from my Grandma's garden when I was growing up. Kroger had a special on Organic Raspberries, and they are beyond good. I think tomorrow will see me returning to pick up another pint (or four).
There! That didn't take but 5 minutes. The best thing? I could have gone on and on. It was a great day.
~K
~K
Monday, July 5, 2010
wheel
My wheel, it be improving!
This makes me very happy.
March 28 of this year...
Yesterday (making it just over three months from the first photo):
It's fun to see progress!
This makes me very happy.
March 28 of this year...
Yesterday (making it just over three months from the first photo):
I think it looks much more "vertical", if that makes sense. I feel like I've got more expansion in my chest and shoulders.
It's fun to see progress!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Sangha
So much that I love about my Meditation group is the sharing , the sense of connectedness & intimacy that we share every Tuesday morning. Taken in relation to the Three Jewels of Buddhism, this is Sangha ~ we come together to gain wisdom, meditate and help each other. I spoke about this after our seated meditation; it was a theme that popped up in my practice a I let go of striving and accepted the moment as it unfolded.
When we were in Walking Meditation, I found myself with a raving case of Monkey-Mind. My body felt good, my pace was even and relaxed; twice I was able to release tension in my shoulders, but my mind marched on to its own drummer. It took me from one thing to the next, sticking its tongue out in contempt at the inner voice cautioning "Now, no striving...". As I placed one foot slowly and mindfully on the floor in front of me, I realized how much I felt like a tightrope walker. I was amused by this - - me, walking my imaginary tightrope. I fell twice. ;) I saw how much tightrope walking, though, *is* meditative. Your focus - your life- rests on a thin rope at your feet and maintaining your balance (insert greater life metaphor here). I then jumped mentally to the years we spent Scrambling along cliffs and high ridges in the Rocky, Adirondack and White Mountains. It hit me then how much my passion for the Mountains may rest in the mindful, meditative quality they foster in me. You don't have time to fret about life or borrow trouble from the future - - you focus ONLY on the here and now, one foot in front of the other, one finger hold at a time.
The Mountains were my first Meditation.
In my climbing, I found the 'now'. I was - had to be - present. Even when sitting down to rest on a rocky ledge, I would lose myself in the majesty, the scale of life, around me. I was nowhere else but there. I can see now that this has a lot to do with why I always felt more alive, more awake, in the Mountains. This is where I experienced euphoria. At the time, I explained it only as "I really love the Mountains. I really love climbing.". Now, I think I see another layer.
Later, in Seated Meditation, I again felt striving begin to reappear - striving to move away from contemplating the realizations of my Walking Meditation - striving and frustrated. I felt frustrated at my busy mind. Then I remembered Jack Kornfield's retelling of his own experience with "Monkey-Mind" while studying at a monastery in Thailand with Ven. Ajahn Chah. In his time with the Master, he described feeling overcome with irritation at his every busy Monkey-Mind. With a glint of humour in his eye, the Ajahn Chah frowned deeply, replying "Ahhhhh... How unfortunate; you are the only one to experience this". Heh. Good reminder. With a slight chuckle, I let go. My inner voice said "the moment is perfect just as it is". Whatever happens (or not), wherever the Meditation takes me (or doesn't), it's all good.
My mind kind of eased then. Gradually, I felt my body far below me - that slightly heady sensation that I sometimes experience. For lack of a better way of explaining it, I began to "see" ripples of movement - soft aqua merging with deep blue - like ripples of water. The voice then said "We are all water. We are water, the Earth is water. We are all the same, interconnected." I realize it probably sounds nutty to hear a voice. It's kind of a silent hearing; by this I mean, I don't really HEAR it, but it's like mentally being able to hear someone (my true self, the Witness?) speaking. It was just this really powerful sensation this hard to put into words. We are all one. With that, the ripples faded - - well, actually, it's more like I ZOOMED back "down", like landing from somewhere up high. My mind was dark and quiet. I felt my feet on the carpet again, my hands in my lap, the smooth wooden surface of my mala beads.
The Moment is Perfect Just as it Is.
We are One.
I am so grateful for this group of women who, in such a short period of measured time, have become such a big part of my life. I had cast a line out, and feel so blessed by the pure *treasure* that came to me. What good fortune.
Rereading what I journaled about a few days ago, sparked by a reading in Cheri Huber's "Making a Change for Good" (GREAT book, by the way), I realize how my nagging force of conditioned mind was trying to disrupt and demoralize me. "You've got Monkey-Mind!" it taunted; "You're striving again!!", it smugly whispered. I outlasted it. I was able to recommit.
"Life is a tidal wave. If you wait for things to calm down to start swimming with the current, you might not survive the wait."
Water. Water again. Interestingly, this make me think of what you're supposed to do if you ever find yourself caught in a riptide. Those who fight against the water succumb to it and die. Nor do you have to let it suck you out endlessly, though. Instead, swim sideways. Swim sideways to get yourself out of the riptide. Relax and just move with it. There's a greater life lesson in this.
Also fascinating, while I'm on the water thing? Nina also had water figure prominently in her Seated Meditation. She found herself remembering something that Wayne Dyer has written about God being like the Ocean, and that we all have the Ocean inside of us, the water endless and available to us in each moment.
Darla shared that she'd felt tremendous gratitude in her Meditation for the interconnectedness of all life ~ in the humans, plants and animals that share the Earth. We all breathe, we breathe together - humans, all other animals and plants; we are all connected.
It amazes me how parallel our experiences often are in these Meditation sessions. We are all connected, indeed.
~K
In case anyone is interested, here are some great dharma talks by Jack Kornfield. He's actually quite funny and entertaining to listen to, in addition to being very informed.
When we were in Walking Meditation, I found myself with a raving case of Monkey-Mind. My body felt good, my pace was even and relaxed; twice I was able to release tension in my shoulders, but my mind marched on to its own drummer. It took me from one thing to the next, sticking its tongue out in contempt at the inner voice cautioning "Now, no striving...". As I placed one foot slowly and mindfully on the floor in front of me, I realized how much I felt like a tightrope walker. I was amused by this - - me, walking my imaginary tightrope. I fell twice. ;) I saw how much tightrope walking, though, *is* meditative. Your focus - your life- rests on a thin rope at your feet and maintaining your balance (insert greater life metaphor here). I then jumped mentally to the years we spent Scrambling along cliffs and high ridges in the Rocky, Adirondack and White Mountains. It hit me then how much my passion for the Mountains may rest in the mindful, meditative quality they foster in me. You don't have time to fret about life or borrow trouble from the future - - you focus ONLY on the here and now, one foot in front of the other, one finger hold at a time.
The Mountains were my first Meditation.
In my climbing, I found the 'now'. I was - had to be - present. Even when sitting down to rest on a rocky ledge, I would lose myself in the majesty, the scale of life, around me. I was nowhere else but there. I can see now that this has a lot to do with why I always felt more alive, more awake, in the Mountains. This is where I experienced euphoria. At the time, I explained it only as "I really love the Mountains. I really love climbing.". Now, I think I see another layer.
Later, in Seated Meditation, I again felt striving begin to reappear - striving to move away from contemplating the realizations of my Walking Meditation - striving and frustrated. I felt frustrated at my busy mind. Then I remembered Jack Kornfield's retelling of his own experience with "Monkey-Mind" while studying at a monastery in Thailand with Ven. Ajahn Chah. In his time with the Master, he described feeling overcome with irritation at his every busy Monkey-Mind. With a glint of humour in his eye, the Ajahn Chah frowned deeply, replying "Ahhhhh... How unfortunate; you are the only one to experience this". Heh. Good reminder. With a slight chuckle, I let go. My inner voice said "the moment is perfect just as it is". Whatever happens (or not), wherever the Meditation takes me (or doesn't), it's all good.
My mind kind of eased then. Gradually, I felt my body far below me - that slightly heady sensation that I sometimes experience. For lack of a better way of explaining it, I began to "see" ripples of movement - soft aqua merging with deep blue - like ripples of water. The voice then said "We are all water. We are water, the Earth is water. We are all the same, interconnected." I realize it probably sounds nutty to hear a voice. It's kind of a silent hearing; by this I mean, I don't really HEAR it, but it's like mentally being able to hear someone (my true self, the Witness?) speaking. It was just this really powerful sensation this hard to put into words. We are all one. With that, the ripples faded - - well, actually, it's more like I ZOOMED back "down", like landing from somewhere up high. My mind was dark and quiet. I felt my feet on the carpet again, my hands in my lap, the smooth wooden surface of my mala beads.
The Moment is Perfect Just as it Is.
We are One.
I am so grateful for this group of women who, in such a short period of measured time, have become such a big part of my life. I had cast a line out, and feel so blessed by the pure *treasure* that came to me. What good fortune.
Rereading what I journaled about a few days ago, sparked by a reading in Cheri Huber's "Making a Change for Good" (GREAT book, by the way), I realize how my nagging force of conditioned mind was trying to disrupt and demoralize me. "You've got Monkey-Mind!" it taunted; "You're striving again!!", it smugly whispered. I outlasted it. I was able to recommit.
"Life is a tidal wave. If you wait for things to calm down to start swimming with the current, you might not survive the wait."
Water. Water again. Interestingly, this make me think of what you're supposed to do if you ever find yourself caught in a riptide. Those who fight against the water succumb to it and die. Nor do you have to let it suck you out endlessly, though. Instead, swim sideways. Swim sideways to get yourself out of the riptide. Relax and just move with it. There's a greater life lesson in this.
Also fascinating, while I'm on the water thing? Nina also had water figure prominently in her Seated Meditation. She found herself remembering something that Wayne Dyer has written about God being like the Ocean, and that we all have the Ocean inside of us, the water endless and available to us in each moment.
Darla shared that she'd felt tremendous gratitude in her Meditation for the interconnectedness of all life ~ in the humans, plants and animals that share the Earth. We all breathe, we breathe together - humans, all other animals and plants; we are all connected.
It amazes me how parallel our experiences often are in these Meditation sessions. We are all connected, indeed.
~K
In case anyone is interested, here are some great dharma talks by Jack Kornfield. He's actually quite funny and entertaining to listen to, in addition to being very informed.
Monday, June 28, 2010
things I love
just enough time for some free-associating before bed ~
I love.....
knowing at the end of the day that a warm, comfortable bed & a good book await me (even if I can only manage a chapter before falling asleep...); frogs singing in the dark; geckos on my window; a quiet, peaceful house; lazing in the pool on a hot summer day; knowing that I have an abundance of people in my life who love me & have my back; spinach salad with strawberries and blueberries; hot, strong coffee first thing in the morning; my morning ritual of going outside to rescue Junebugs from the watering containers in the garden; going outside just before bed and standing in the darkness, listening to the frogs and the occasional owl; music that breathes with me; discovering the joy of meditation; mango iced tea; going barefoot; playing soccer; walking in the woods; capturing moments in time with my camera; Hem (a new, favourite musical discovery courtesy of a friend); chili lime sunflower seeds; reading by the pool; playing cards with my eldest girl; getting my butt handed to me by my youngest girl when we play checkers; long-distance phone calls with my love; playing with clay; leftover pasta; knitting dishcloths (I've discovered I really don't have the attention span or patience for much else); painted toenails; watching The Amazing Race with my eldest; eating blackberries straight from the garden, while they're still warm from the sun; The Vinyl Cafe (spent me some time with Stuart today, I did); the smell of freshly mown grass; midnight snacks.... and, of course -
I love.....
knowing at the end of the day that a warm, comfortable bed & a good book await me (even if I can only manage a chapter before falling asleep...); frogs singing in the dark; geckos on my window; a quiet, peaceful house; lazing in the pool on a hot summer day; knowing that I have an abundance of people in my life who love me & have my back; spinach salad with strawberries and blueberries; hot, strong coffee first thing in the morning; my morning ritual of going outside to rescue Junebugs from the watering containers in the garden; going outside just before bed and standing in the darkness, listening to the frogs and the occasional owl; music that breathes with me; discovering the joy of meditation; mango iced tea; going barefoot; playing soccer; walking in the woods; capturing moments in time with my camera; Hem (a new, favourite musical discovery courtesy of a friend); chili lime sunflower seeds; reading by the pool; playing cards with my eldest girl; getting my butt handed to me by my youngest girl when we play checkers; long-distance phone calls with my love; playing with clay; leftover pasta; knitting dishcloths (I've discovered I really don't have the attention span or patience for much else); painted toenails; watching The Amazing Race with my eldest; eating blackberries straight from the garden, while they're still warm from the sun; The Vinyl Cafe (spent me some time with Stuart today, I did); the smell of freshly mown grass; midnight snacks.... and, of course -
Now, about that midnight snack..... ;)
~K
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
accepting
My Father-in-Law died on Friday. Suddenly, of heart failure. He was only 65. We loved him so much and it just doesn't feel "fair". Of course, the logical part of my brain says what role does fairness play in Death ? Death is neither fair nor unfair; Death simply comes to us all. Still.... I know that since hearing the news on Friday night that I've been caught in a circle of wishing things to be different than they are.
Enter yesterday's Meditation.
Walking - a bit of a mixed bag. I found my mind really hopping around. I learned that looking upward to the high, vaulted ceiling of the Sanctuary, drinking in the air and light, there's just no settling of my mind. I end up leaping from observation to observation, inwardly remarking "Oh, how pretty!", taking in the physical elements in the room, comparing them to our Sanctuary, which then saw me chasing my mental tail in more directions - - wondering how things are working out with their new Minister, hoping that Darla got a chance to light a candle for her brother on Sunday - - - run, run, spin, spin..... Then I started to beat myself up a bit judging *this* meditation as being less quality than last week's. Gah. Fortunately, I recognized this happening and let go - let go of my expectations and striving. I affirmed that I am doing the best I can, and what unfolds will unfold. I shifted my gaze down to the ground, and felt it soften. I relaxed my arms down by my side and felt a nice warmth begin to envelope them.
Ra Ma Da Sa, Sa Say So Hung
I practiced a bit of Metta, or Loving Kindness, Meditation. I held many people in my mind - - family mostly, but also the women in my meditation group. Some flowered with ease, some stuck a bit. Meant to type "flowed", but see now "flowered".. I'm leaving flowered.
Seated Meditation - it's amazing at how quickly twenty minutes can pass when you are just sitting quietly. I really felt good with this - it flowed, not perfectly, but I was not striving. My most audible message was "accept things as you are" (Ha! Another slip of the fingers there - -meant to write they are. I wonder if my mind is telling me more?)
Thinking of all the ridiculous, petty stuff that has been coming into our sphere since my Father-in-Law's death - only days ago - to accept it all as it is To accept each person and their reaction, releasing judgement. I can do that if I choose to.
Nina, in reply to my sharing after the Meditation, said something so poignant: "You know the song? 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat'? - it tells us something really important: Row *your* boat; allow others to row theirs."
I release anger and judgement and accept things as the are. I will row my boat as best I can, and allow others the freedom and space to row their boat.
In our sharing, so many things seemed to connect and build upon each other ~ my own insight of acceptance touched Darla in her struggle to deal with her brother's cancer. Louise said something about how she had reacted to a friend's child's death - how she'd "frozen up" and felt embarrassed by her "failure to handle it better". This touched me, and I shared about how ashamed I felt when my friend had been diagnosed with breast cancer, and my strongest reaction - while concern and love for her was definitely there - my *strongest* reaction was fear. Fear for myself. I realize that I haven't really ever forgiven myself , accepted my reaction. Perhaps that is something I can do; I can forgive myself.
Nina spoke, and told of how when her niece was diagnosed with lymphoma some years ago, she'd felt so much of the same fear and guilt. She cried a bit, startled by the outpouring of emotion - "I don't know where this is coming from.". It was so beautiful.
Darla said she felt the same when her brother was diagnosed - - fear for herself, and utter shame for her selfishness. "I was more worried about myself than about him!" I think we each, in that moment, began to release something we've been carrying. Releasing the shame, beginning to let go of our guilt and self-judgement, beginning to forgive.
Isn't it funny what can come of a simple period of stillness in the company of others, having them share, reflect and resound with you?
It's wondrous. I am so grateful.
~K
Enter yesterday's Meditation.
Walking - a bit of a mixed bag. I found my mind really hopping around. I learned that looking upward to the high, vaulted ceiling of the Sanctuary, drinking in the air and light, there's just no settling of my mind. I end up leaping from observation to observation, inwardly remarking "Oh, how pretty!", taking in the physical elements in the room, comparing them to our Sanctuary, which then saw me chasing my mental tail in more directions - - wondering how things are working out with their new Minister, hoping that Darla got a chance to light a candle for her brother on Sunday - - - run, run, spin, spin..... Then I started to beat myself up a bit judging *this* meditation as being less quality than last week's. Gah. Fortunately, I recognized this happening and let go - let go of my expectations and striving. I affirmed that I am doing the best I can, and what unfolds will unfold. I shifted my gaze down to the ground, and felt it soften. I relaxed my arms down by my side and felt a nice warmth begin to envelope them.
Ra Ma Da Sa, Sa Say So Hung
I practiced a bit of Metta, or Loving Kindness, Meditation. I held many people in my mind - - family mostly, but also the women in my meditation group. Some flowered with ease, some stuck a bit. Meant to type "flowed", but see now "flowered".. I'm leaving flowered.
Seated Meditation - it's amazing at how quickly twenty minutes can pass when you are just sitting quietly. I really felt good with this - it flowed, not perfectly, but I was not striving. My most audible message was "accept things as you are" (Ha! Another slip of the fingers there - -meant to write they are. I wonder if my mind is telling me more?)
Accept Things as You Are.
Thinking of all the ridiculous, petty stuff that has been coming into our sphere since my Father-in-Law's death - only days ago - to accept it all as it is To accept each person and their reaction, releasing judgement. I can do that if I choose to.
Nina, in reply to my sharing after the Meditation, said something so poignant: "You know the song? 'Row, Row, Row Your Boat'? - it tells us something really important: Row *your* boat; allow others to row theirs."
I release anger and judgement and accept things as the are. I will row my boat as best I can, and allow others the freedom and space to row their boat.
In our sharing, so many things seemed to connect and build upon each other ~ my own insight of acceptance touched Darla in her struggle to deal with her brother's cancer. Louise said something about how she had reacted to a friend's child's death - how she'd "frozen up" and felt embarrassed by her "failure to handle it better". This touched me, and I shared about how ashamed I felt when my friend had been diagnosed with breast cancer, and my strongest reaction - while concern and love for her was definitely there - my *strongest* reaction was fear. Fear for myself. I realize that I haven't really ever forgiven myself , accepted my reaction. Perhaps that is something I can do; I can forgive myself.
Nina spoke, and told of how when her niece was diagnosed with lymphoma some years ago, she'd felt so much of the same fear and guilt. She cried a bit, startled by the outpouring of emotion - "I don't know where this is coming from.". It was so beautiful.
Darla said she felt the same when her brother was diagnosed - - fear for herself, and utter shame for her selfishness. "I was more worried about myself than about him!" I think we each, in that moment, began to release something we've been carrying. Releasing the shame, beginning to let go of our guilt and self-judgement, beginning to forgive.
Isn't it funny what can come of a simple period of stillness in the company of others, having them share, reflect and resound with you?
It's wondrous. I am so grateful.
~K
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
meditation
I'm writing this in a Starbucks, sipping my grande half-caf Americano, my copy of "The Wisdom of Yoga" beside me. I just attended my first ever meditation group.... and following it up with a coffee break. I tell you, its all about embracing the different, wonderful facets of ourselves. :)
I liked it - the meditation group. It's small; I have the impression that there's probably a core group of 4 or 5 that meet every Tuesday morning. All women, it seems, and most in their 50's. I realize often that I seem to find myself surrounded by these older females in my life. I wonder, at times, if it's the Universe giving me the "mother" connection while my own Mom lives so many thousand kilometres away.
When everyone has arrived, we connect for a bit - there's the opportunity to share anything you'd like about your week, how your meditation has been going, or just general life stuff. The chalice is then lit and the bell sounds. We do a 10-15 minute walking meditation, through the sanctuary and then around back to the Library where we meet. After a few moments of silence, we reconnect - - how was that meditation for you, did anything arise for you, etc. There is then a bit of discussion based on teachings or books - - today the woman leading the meditation, Darla, read a short passage about honouring ourselves, and then each person was welcome to share her own experiences, thoughts that are evoked by the reading. Basically, you can share where you are in your journey. We follow this with a 10-15 minute seated meditation, followed by a final contemplative meditation ~ where each person can speak freely and be heard and the group considers what is shared is silence for a moment afterward, after which the next person, if she chooses, may share her experience.
It was great. I loved it. It was remarkably less intimidating than I thought it might be. 10-15 minute sessions are very manageable for me where I'm at right now. I really like the time that is given in sharing our thoughts and experiences through the meditation. I love to hear what the other women had to offer; it's such an opportunity for learning and growth. I love being welcome to share from my own heart, and have this be heard and taken in my others. It is interesting and so valuable, also, to hear feedback.
Walking Meditation: This was my first experience with walking meditation. Initially, I'll admit that a silly part of me was kind of giggling at what we must look like - - a group of women following each other at a turtle's crawl around the Sanctuary, but you know what? I really fell into it. A few minutes into the meditation I noticed that I'd been holding my shoulders up - what a tremendous feeling to just let go - release. My arms felt wonderfully heavy and warm. I found that, while the stained glass window and skylights are pretty, it felt more natural for me to focus my soft gaze a few feet ahead of me on the ground. My breath coming in gently, leaving gently; the rhythmic ticking of the clock... the warmth of silence, the texture of the ground underfoot... so much there, and it began to envelope me.
Seated Meditation: This passed very quickly for me. If anything, I would have enjoyed it continuing a bit longer. I used my mala beads and my mantra - remembering my breath, how it flowed once I connected my mantra and my breath.
(inhale) Ong (exhale) Namo (long, inhale) Guru Dev (long, soft exhale) Namo
My mind wandered off a few times - - to the future, to uncertainties.. but I was able to bring it back. My inner voice said to me that all I need will be provided to me in the perfect time and space. I realized that my abdomen was not being fully released, and so I softened it. Let go. The room was warm; to me, this helped me feel wrapped in the energy of meditation that we were creating together. It felt pretty incredible.
After the bell sounded, we sat in silence for a time. I was in this really warm, head-y state. I let myself come back slowly.
We shared a bit of our own experience. Darla asked me about my mala. I explained how touching the beads as I meditate, either with a mantra or not, helps me to ground inwardly and that, with time, the mala come to be a tactile representation to your mind to ease you entering into meditation. I also shared how my string of birth beads, given to be by friends around the World in anticipation of our second child's birth, had helped me to focus and centre myself so much during my labour. They seemed very interested to hear about this, and said how wonderful it is when we all come together, and how each person brings something new to the group and we learn and grow from each other.
I felt so very welcome and honoured to be among them. I will make this part of my life. I loved it. LOVED it.
~K
I liked it - the meditation group. It's small; I have the impression that there's probably a core group of 4 or 5 that meet every Tuesday morning. All women, it seems, and most in their 50's. I realize often that I seem to find myself surrounded by these older females in my life. I wonder, at times, if it's the Universe giving me the "mother" connection while my own Mom lives so many thousand kilometres away.
When everyone has arrived, we connect for a bit - there's the opportunity to share anything you'd like about your week, how your meditation has been going, or just general life stuff. The chalice is then lit and the bell sounds. We do a 10-15 minute walking meditation, through the sanctuary and then around back to the Library where we meet. After a few moments of silence, we reconnect - - how was that meditation for you, did anything arise for you, etc. There is then a bit of discussion based on teachings or books - - today the woman leading the meditation, Darla, read a short passage about honouring ourselves, and then each person was welcome to share her own experiences, thoughts that are evoked by the reading. Basically, you can share where you are in your journey. We follow this with a 10-15 minute seated meditation, followed by a final contemplative meditation ~ where each person can speak freely and be heard and the group considers what is shared is silence for a moment afterward, after which the next person, if she chooses, may share her experience.
It was great. I loved it. It was remarkably less intimidating than I thought it might be. 10-15 minute sessions are very manageable for me where I'm at right now. I really like the time that is given in sharing our thoughts and experiences through the meditation. I love to hear what the other women had to offer; it's such an opportunity for learning and growth. I love being welcome to share from my own heart, and have this be heard and taken in my others. It is interesting and so valuable, also, to hear feedback.
Walking Meditation: This was my first experience with walking meditation. Initially, I'll admit that a silly part of me was kind of giggling at what we must look like - - a group of women following each other at a turtle's crawl around the Sanctuary, but you know what? I really fell into it. A few minutes into the meditation I noticed that I'd been holding my shoulders up - what a tremendous feeling to just let go - release. My arms felt wonderfully heavy and warm. I found that, while the stained glass window and skylights are pretty, it felt more natural for me to focus my soft gaze a few feet ahead of me on the ground. My breath coming in gently, leaving gently; the rhythmic ticking of the clock... the warmth of silence, the texture of the ground underfoot... so much there, and it began to envelope me.
Seated Meditation: This passed very quickly for me. If anything, I would have enjoyed it continuing a bit longer. I used my mala beads and my mantra - remembering my breath, how it flowed once I connected my mantra and my breath.
(inhale) Ong (exhale) Namo (long, inhale) Guru Dev (long, soft exhale) Namo
My mind wandered off a few times - - to the future, to uncertainties.. but I was able to bring it back. My inner voice said to me that all I need will be provided to me in the perfect time and space. I realized that my abdomen was not being fully released, and so I softened it. Let go. The room was warm; to me, this helped me feel wrapped in the energy of meditation that we were creating together. It felt pretty incredible.
After the bell sounded, we sat in silence for a time. I was in this really warm, head-y state. I let myself come back slowly.
We shared a bit of our own experience. Darla asked me about my mala. I explained how touching the beads as I meditate, either with a mantra or not, helps me to ground inwardly and that, with time, the mala come to be a tactile representation to your mind to ease you entering into meditation. I also shared how my string of birth beads, given to be by friends around the World in anticipation of our second child's birth, had helped me to focus and centre myself so much during my labour. They seemed very interested to hear about this, and said how wonderful it is when we all come together, and how each person brings something new to the group and we learn and grow from each other.
I felt so very welcome and honoured to be among them. I will make this part of my life. I loved it. LOVED it.
~K
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
The Universe provides... and decluttering
Last week I went to do some poking around at a favourite resale shop. My intention was to find a bathing suit (or two) for my eldest daughter - - summer sees us spending a lot of time at the Beach and at the Pool, so having an extra suit is a good thing. While I'm *so* not a shopper, I do love the treasure-finding nature of consignment shopping. I love to see if there's anything on my Cosmic wish list that jumps out at me.
I wasn't going to browse through the books at first - if the gently sagging bookshelves in our living room are any testament, this family isn't really in need of more books. I'm more of a library booster myself, but that day I felt drawn to take a quick look. Literally 1 minute after mentally musing "I'd love a good feng shui book", I spotted the spine of "Clear your Clutter with Feng Shui" on one of the top shelves. (I know, I chuckle a bit at the irony of finding a book titled "clear your clutter" in a second-hand store - - obviously, this book spoke to it's previous owner! ;) ) I flipped through it quickly, found it to look highly readable and concise, and popped it into my cart. Totally not feng shui related, but another HUGE cosmic score from the day? A pair of J-41 Vegan shoes in excellent condition, for only $10!! Ok, so I digress, but these are *very* squee-worthy. I'd been restraining myself from buying a pair only a month ago, cringing a bit at the $80 price tag. The Universe takes care of me. :)
Back to the book.
I'm now nearly finished, with only another 20 pages to go. I felt completely inspired as I went through even the earliest chapters, and my first efforts were directed to the vanity in the main bathroom of our house. Good GRACIOUS, did that ever have come kind of clutter-attracting magical powers! In less than an hour, though, I had a bag of trash ready to take out - - with old cosmetics, 1/8 full bottles of shampoo - - you know, the ones we keep "just in case" (in case of what??) - - dull razors, scads of band-aid wrappers (are my children the only ones who seem to forget where wrappers go?), old toothbrushes, etc, etc, etc. In less than an hour I had a neat, organized bathroom vanity AND, behold, the bottom drawer now closes! Ahhhhhhh....
Over the course of the next few days, I worked my way through the kitchen cupboards and drawers. I tossed more than a dozen empty jars (WHY did I accumulate these, and how is it that you end up with 40 zillion lids that have no matching jar?) , random tofutti/yogurt/margarine containers, mugs with broken handles - - all of them, GONE. Seriously? It's like you can actually breathe easier - like there is more air available to your lungs - when you get rid of crap you don't love, need or use. I then turned my focus to the living room. Here, I enlisted the help (bribed/threatened/cajoled) of my daughters to sort through their craft corner and prune it down to things they actually love and use. I'm not sure they started out enjoying it, but there is a certain lightness that undeniably grows on you as you shed excess. I dare say they were rather pleased with their efforts by the end of it! My own desk got thoroughly decluttered and wiped down. It's amazing how much dust accumulates around a computer monitor! There is still some work to be done in the shelves that line our wall, but it's come a long, long way.
I am seriously riding a high from all of this decluttering. Admittedly, I'm a person that gets downright itchy when a space is cluttery, but still I think this is the first time I've set a very focused intention on getting rid of ALL that we don't love, need or use. It feels absolutely fantastic. It is liberating; it is like wiping clear a dirty window (yes, I did that too)... it's soul-enriching.
Amazing how much stuff can find it's way into our homes. Amazing how often, when we're *really* honest with ourselves, we're keeping things out of a sense of guilt or obligation. Letting go - - I think there is a huge link between letting go on a physical level and letting go on a mental level. It is healthful to let go, to make room for new, wonderful experiences and lay full trust in the Universe to provide for our highest good.
To quote Karen Kingston, Happy Clutter Clearing!
~K
I wasn't going to browse through the books at first - if the gently sagging bookshelves in our living room are any testament, this family isn't really in need of more books. I'm more of a library booster myself, but that day I felt drawn to take a quick look. Literally 1 minute after mentally musing "I'd love a good feng shui book", I spotted the spine of "Clear your Clutter with Feng Shui" on one of the top shelves. (I know, I chuckle a bit at the irony of finding a book titled "clear your clutter" in a second-hand store - - obviously, this book spoke to it's previous owner! ;) ) I flipped through it quickly, found it to look highly readable and concise, and popped it into my cart. Totally not feng shui related, but another HUGE cosmic score from the day? A pair of J-41 Vegan shoes in excellent condition, for only $10!! Ok, so I digress, but these are *very* squee-worthy. I'd been restraining myself from buying a pair only a month ago, cringing a bit at the $80 price tag. The Universe takes care of me. :)
Back to the book.
I'm now nearly finished, with only another 20 pages to go. I felt completely inspired as I went through even the earliest chapters, and my first efforts were directed to the vanity in the main bathroom of our house. Good GRACIOUS, did that ever have come kind of clutter-attracting magical powers! In less than an hour, though, I had a bag of trash ready to take out - - with old cosmetics, 1/8 full bottles of shampoo - - you know, the ones we keep "just in case" (in case of what??) - - dull razors, scads of band-aid wrappers (are my children the only ones who seem to forget where wrappers go?), old toothbrushes, etc, etc, etc. In less than an hour I had a neat, organized bathroom vanity AND, behold, the bottom drawer now closes! Ahhhhhhh....
Over the course of the next few days, I worked my way through the kitchen cupboards and drawers. I tossed more than a dozen empty jars (WHY did I accumulate these, and how is it that you end up with 40 zillion lids that have no matching jar?) , random tofutti/yogurt/margarine containers, mugs with broken handles - - all of them, GONE. Seriously? It's like you can actually breathe easier - like there is more air available to your lungs - when you get rid of crap you don't love, need or use. I then turned my focus to the living room. Here, I enlisted the help (bribed/threatened/cajoled) of my daughters to sort through their craft corner and prune it down to things they actually love and use. I'm not sure they started out enjoying it, but there is a certain lightness that undeniably grows on you as you shed excess. I dare say they were rather pleased with their efforts by the end of it! My own desk got thoroughly decluttered and wiped down. It's amazing how much dust accumulates around a computer monitor! There is still some work to be done in the shelves that line our wall, but it's come a long, long way.
I am seriously riding a high from all of this decluttering. Admittedly, I'm a person that gets downright itchy when a space is cluttery, but still I think this is the first time I've set a very focused intention on getting rid of ALL that we don't love, need or use. It feels absolutely fantastic. It is liberating; it is like wiping clear a dirty window (yes, I did that too)... it's soul-enriching.
Amazing how much stuff can find it's way into our homes. Amazing how often, when we're *really* honest with ourselves, we're keeping things out of a sense of guilt or obligation. Letting go - - I think there is a huge link between letting go on a physical level and letting go on a mental level. It is healthful to let go, to make room for new, wonderful experiences and lay full trust in the Universe to provide for our highest good.
To quote Karen Kingston, Happy Clutter Clearing!
~K
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
intention
I'm reading (inhaling) a book right now that feels like it came into my life at exactly the right time and without me even seeking it out. It all but jumped from the library shelf into my arms some weeks ago (I'm on my second renewal period...) It's called "The Wisdom of Yoga", written by Stephen Cope - a Yoga teacher from the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in MA. It's beautifully written, an artful combination of inspired real-life stories and information based firmly in the Yoga Sutra tradition. I'm pouring over it carefully, journaling as I go and, yes, sipping coffee. Hey, it works for me! ;)
Last week I read a chapter that detailed one woman's journey of change. In beginning, she formed a clear statement of intention that she wrote in her journal and also placed in visible corners of her home. An important stepping stone, it provided the focus and clarity to ease her transition. At the time, I remember pausing in my reading - trying to envision what my intention is. Insert sound effect of crickets chirping here. Nothing. Nada. I couldn't form even the vaguest idea, even though I know what's "wrong" with me, what's peeving me, how would I frame this in the form of an intention statement? I began to grumble inwardly, then turned my frustration at the book. "Stupid intention statement....". I didn't give any more thought to it.
Until today.
Last week I read a chapter that detailed one woman's journey of change. In beginning, she formed a clear statement of intention that she wrote in her journal and also placed in visible corners of her home. An important stepping stone, it provided the focus and clarity to ease her transition. At the time, I remember pausing in my reading - trying to envision what my intention is. Insert sound effect of crickets chirping here. Nothing. Nada. I couldn't form even the vaguest idea, even though I know what's "wrong" with me, what's peeving me, how would I frame this in the form of an intention statement? I began to grumble inwardly, then turned my frustration at the book. "Stupid intention statement....". I didn't give any more thought to it.
Until today.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
yoga on the beach
My husband shot this video of his cousin and I doing yoga on the beach back in early May. I didn't notice him doing it right away, and kind of laughed it off as a joke, but it's actually quite nice to be able to see myself practice. I was able to see, for instance, that my triangle is looking really good but that I need to extend a bit further into my Warrior poses. Cool to know.
- music by Singh Kaur
- music by Singh Kaur
Thursday, May 13, 2010
chakra meditation
Coming off a horrid but blessedly short-lived stomach virus this week, I began easing back into yoga with a short, easy podcast on the beach yesterday afternoon. It felt wonderful. There is nothing quite like the roar of the waves and the soft sand underfoot to enhance your sense of being connected to the Earth.
I want to share a very brief chakra-balancing meditation that I came across recently - it's led by Alanna Kaivalya (the JivaDiva) and is only about 10 minutes in length but leaves me feeling grounded and refreshed every time I practice. I also love it because, and let's be honest, we don't always have time for a 45 minute - 1 hour meditation session. Kids, life, dinner, phones, errands, etc etc.
Balance ye chakras while ye may.
I want to share a very brief chakra-balancing meditation that I came across recently - it's led by Alanna Kaivalya (the JivaDiva) and is only about 10 minutes in length but leaves me feeling grounded and refreshed every time I practice. I also love it because, and let's be honest, we don't always have time for a 45 minute - 1 hour meditation session. Kids, life, dinner, phones, errands, etc etc.
Balance ye chakras while ye may.
Monday, May 10, 2010
more on the beach
Oh, and just to keep it real? I headplanted myself BUT good while attempting Crow on the beach on Friday night. Up into it, thinking "Yesssss! I've got it! Oh...um..... *boof* Ouch."
Yoga, she be a practice of up's and down's. Literally.
Yoga, she be a practice of up's and down's. Literally.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
partner yoga
My husband's cousin came into town this weekend, and we were able to enjoy a lovely few days with him. He has newly begun to practice yoga and we both loved the idea of a sunset session on the beach. Afterward, he showed me some of the poses he'd learned when he and his girlfriend went to a Partner Yoga class this Spring. I've never really tried Partner Yoga, and it was a lot of fun. The one time that my husband and I tried a Partner Yoga DVD, it was more of a "yeah, I'm doing Yoga beside my partner, but we're not really doing it *together*" kind of thing. This was totally different; we leaned into each other to better reach our depths in each pose. My husband took all of these (while offering wry, amusing commentary....). Anyway, it was a perfect night for Yoga on the beach & all the more fun to enjoy it with someone else.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
mala
my new string of rosewood mala beads arrived this week. ♥
I haven't had a chance yet to add them to my meditation practice, but love the feel of them in my hand and I think they'll be a big help in directing my focus. (plus, they're just really pretty. heh.)
I haven't had a chance yet to add them to my meditation practice, but love the feel of them in my hand and I think they'll be a big help in directing my focus. (plus, they're just really pretty. heh.)
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Multiple "Me's"
I'm deep into Stephen Cope's "The Wisdom of Yoga" right now. I happened upon this book at the Library when, seeking another book which turned out not to be on the shelf as catalogued, this one seemed to jump right out at me. Kismet. I'm learning so much.
The latest section that I've been pouring over has to do with the multiplicity of selves -- the question of "Who am I?", or how do all of the different "Me's" come together? I gave this some thought yesterday as I stole away for a delicious hour of quiet (and Americano sipping)... who are the multiple selves in me - at times cooperating with one another, and at times seemingly so at odds?
Here goes ...
The latest section that I've been pouring over has to do with the multiplicity of selves -- the question of "Who am I?", or how do all of the different "Me's" come together? I gave this some thought yesterday as I stole away for a delicious hour of quiet (and Americano sipping)... who are the multiple selves in me - at times cooperating with one another, and at times seemingly so at odds?
Here goes ...
Thursday, April 29, 2010
finding the present moment
You don't need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Don't even listen, simply wait. Don't even wait. Be quite still and solitary. The world will feely offer itself to you. It has no choice. It will roll in ecstasy at your feet - Kafka
It's remarkable how - even when you have in mind to be mindful (ha!) - true, clear presence can elude you. The moment you realize "hey, I'm present!" you're really not present anymore, you know what I mean? Simple as it sounds, being present to the moment that is, without wishing for it to be any different, without thinking ahead or remembering behind - it's so rare. Think of times when you've been driving somewhere - say, the grocery store - and it's only as you are reaching your destination that you realize you can't really remember the journey there. Your mind has been on what you're going to buy for dinner, which might jog the memory of the last time you had that for dinner and the friends that you shared it with... which then makes you think of the time you all went camping together and how fantastic that was... etc, etc. Yep.
So now, sitting here in this softly lit room, I listen. I hear frogs singing through the open windows to the back garden. I wait. John Gorka's "The Water is Wide" begins to fill the room. Now, I will be still. I will allow the nighttime World to offer itself to me, and I accept it with gratitude.
It's remarkable how - even when you have in mind to be mindful (ha!) - true, clear presence can elude you. The moment you realize "hey, I'm present!" you're really not present anymore, you know what I mean? Simple as it sounds, being present to the moment that is, without wishing for it to be any different, without thinking ahead or remembering behind - it's so rare. Think of times when you've been driving somewhere - say, the grocery store - and it's only as you are reaching your destination that you realize you can't really remember the journey there. Your mind has been on what you're going to buy for dinner, which might jog the memory of the last time you had that for dinner and the friends that you shared it with... which then makes you think of the time you all went camping together and how fantastic that was... etc, etc. Yep.
So now, sitting here in this softly lit room, I listen. I hear frogs singing through the open windows to the back garden. I wait. John Gorka's "The Water is Wide" begins to fill the room. Now, I will be still. I will allow the nighttime World to offer itself to me, and I accept it with gratitude.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
downward dog split
Tess snapped this while we were at the park this afternoon. I *love* podcasts, y'all. How amazing it is to be able to take yoga with me wherever I go!
This is one of my favourite poses. My right leg extends higher than my left right now, but that's pretty much fitting with my left hamstring being a bit more flexible (still) than my right. This just feels *good*.
larger
This is one of my favourite poses. My right leg extends higher than my left right now, but that's pretty much fitting with my left hamstring being a bit more flexible (still) than my right. This just feels *good*.
larger
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo
Starting out, a blank page, it's daunting... I'm opening this up because so often in the last month I've found myself thinking "I want to write about this" or "I'm so eager to talk to someone about what I'm reading/thinking/experiencing" without really having the right place to do so. I'm hoping that this will be that place. I'm hoping that I can reach deeper into myself, learn more and share more about the way that my life is opening up. Yoga, meditation, healthful eating, healthful thinking, friendships, books and journeys - literal and figurative.
Please, please feel welcome to comment, link me to your own blog and share this in any way you wish. I would love for there to be dialogue and a coming together of birds of a feather.
Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo
I bow before my highest consciousness. This mantra I turn to most often in meditation; it fits like a glove in my breathing, and brings my mind a place to rest. To describe myself as a novice meditator is being, well, generous. I've got a good, healthy case of monkey-mind going on but, obviously, this puts me in pretty good company with 95% of the Earth's population. ;) My mind flits from one thought to another with incredible speed, taking turns in completely random directions. I will leap from some obscure (yet very vivid) memory of a morning walk in Alabama to next week's plans to plant something new in the garden. This makes me normal, I know, but still.... it can be frustrating. I'm coming to see that this is a really ok part of the process - - to simply witness the monkey-mind is being present. If only for a few seconds, someone is watching. Over time, maybe that someone will hang out a bit longer. Also, Stephen Cope in "The Wisdom of Yoga" makes an interesting point: the affliction is not the monkey-mind (or puppy-mind, as he calls it), but rather our reactivity to it.
Anyway, here it is - that first entry that can be so dang hard to tap out. I feel excited about this beginning, and look forward to seeing where it may lead. Now, my book and my iced tea call to me from my chair beneath a tree in our warm, windy backyard.
Please, please feel welcome to comment, link me to your own blog and share this in any way you wish. I would love for there to be dialogue and a coming together of birds of a feather.
Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo
I bow before my highest consciousness. This mantra I turn to most often in meditation; it fits like a glove in my breathing, and brings my mind a place to rest. To describe myself as a novice meditator is being, well, generous. I've got a good, healthy case of monkey-mind going on but, obviously, this puts me in pretty good company with 95% of the Earth's population. ;) My mind flits from one thought to another with incredible speed, taking turns in completely random directions. I will leap from some obscure (yet very vivid) memory of a morning walk in Alabama to next week's plans to plant something new in the garden. This makes me normal, I know, but still.... it can be frustrating. I'm coming to see that this is a really ok part of the process - - to simply witness the monkey-mind is being present. If only for a few seconds, someone is watching. Over time, maybe that someone will hang out a bit longer. Also, Stephen Cope in "The Wisdom of Yoga" makes an interesting point: the affliction is not the monkey-mind (or puppy-mind, as he calls it), but rather our reactivity to it.
Anyway, here it is - that first entry that can be so dang hard to tap out. I feel excited about this beginning, and look forward to seeing where it may lead. Now, my book and my iced tea call to me from my chair beneath a tree in our warm, windy backyard.
Stand still. The trees ahead and the bushes beside you
Are not lost. Wherever you are is called Here,
And you must treat it as a powerful stranger,
Must ask permission to know it and be known.
The forest breathes. Listen. It answers,
I have made this place around you.
If you leave it you may come back again, saying Here.
No two trees are the same to Raven.No two branches are the same to Wren.
If what a tree or a bush does is lost on you,
ou are surely lost. Stand still. The forest knows
Where you are. You must let it find you.
-David Wagner
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