Last night, my nephew graduated from the eighth grade. He attended St. Jane de Chantal Catholic School, in Bethesda, Maryland.
During the graduation liturgy, the pastor delivered a wonderful homily based on the book, Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson. I have not read this book myself, though it has been recommended to me. After this homily, I have decided it is definitely a must read for me.
The author of this book is nourished back to health in a Pakistani town high up in the Himalayas. During an encounter he has with a sage in the village, he learns about the custom of drinking three cups of tea.
He is told, that when he shares the first cup of tea, he is merely a stranger to those who offer him the cup. When he drinks the second cup, he is elevated to the status of honored guest. But by the third cup, he becomes family.
In so many cultures in the East, there is an ingrained and very ancient practice of hospitality that is evident in how others are embraced and respected.
The pastor of my nephew's school, exhorted his graduating class to embrace this custom of the three cups of tea with a different spin. He urged the students to drink their first cup for God - and thus honor the presence of the Divine in their lives and the relationship that it implies. The second cup should be consumed for friends and family members. But the third cup, should be imbibed for themselves. In other words, the importance of taking time out for themselves was stressed. Thus, the graduating class was encouraged to take time to discover who they really were - their gifts, and their talents - but mostly to take time to simply be...
As someone with a dedicated meditation practice, I was touched and inspired by the homilist's words - perhaps more than the students themselves were. I knew they did not truly realize the gift that they were given in that moment. They were actually encouraged to reject a culture that revolved around quick experiences and results. Instead, they were invited to develop a more contemplative dimension in their lives...
In a very real sense - the last cup is the most important - because it is the one that truly enables you to appreciate the first cup...
Every morning, after my meditation, I drink a cup of coffee. During the winter I drink several cups of tea. I know I will drink my first cup of the day more symbolically now, for it will remind me to ground myself more deeply into my meditation practice - as well as my asana and other spiritual practices. In being true to myself and my being - I create within myself a bigger temple for the Divine to take up residence. I only hope, that with each passing day and year, the Divine feels more and more welcomed in my life, choosing to reside in my heart forever...
As I said to a dear friend and spiritual brother today at lunch, all that endures from life-time to life-time is the essence of soul - and our relationship to the Divine. All other drama and relationships fade - never to be repeated in the same way again. As I sat there, and drank two glasses of iced tea I thought to myself - yes - here I drink these two glasses - one for my soul - and one for God - in the company of another dear soul with whom I've been connected many times on my soul's journey.
Just as the breath connects us to life - may we always slow down to share a drink - whatever it may be - not only with the dear kindred souls we know - but with those that we are sent, most especially those who challenge us to grow...
And may this practice of drinking three cups, always deepen our connections...
Friday, May 29, 2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Alphabet for Life - Redux
Five months ago, almost to the day - as we were not only ending a month - but a year - I posted this "Alphabet for Life."
I re-visited it today, almost half way into the year by re-posting it in several segments on both Twitter and Facebook. The responses it elicited made me think it worth re-posting for newer followers. One of my friends noted, that if she were ever asked to give a commencement address, she would certainly share these wonderful gems.
I have a laminated copy of this next to my computer, where I see it every day. I could easily spend the rest of this life embodying and implementing each and every one of these dictates or maxims. In fact, I could spend several lifetimes after this one working on this list - simply perfecting them!
I dedicate this re-posting to my nephew and godson, Paul Alexander, who graduates today.
And may these pearls of wisdom touch your lives once more as you gracefully embrace the second half of this year!
Accept differences
Be kind
Count your blessings
Dream
Express thanks
Forgive
Give freely
Harm no one
Imagine more
Jettison anger
Keep confidence
Love truly
Master something
Nurture hope
Open your mind
Pack lightly
Quell rumors
Reciprocate
Seek wisdom
Touch hearts
Understand
Value truth
Win graciously
Xeriscape
Yearn for peace
Zealously support a worthy cause
I re-visited it today, almost half way into the year by re-posting it in several segments on both Twitter and Facebook. The responses it elicited made me think it worth re-posting for newer followers. One of my friends noted, that if she were ever asked to give a commencement address, she would certainly share these wonderful gems.
I have a laminated copy of this next to my computer, where I see it every day. I could easily spend the rest of this life embodying and implementing each and every one of these dictates or maxims. In fact, I could spend several lifetimes after this one working on this list - simply perfecting them!
I dedicate this re-posting to my nephew and godson, Paul Alexander, who graduates today.
And may these pearls of wisdom touch your lives once more as you gracefully embrace the second half of this year!
Accept differences
Be kind
Count your blessings
Dream
Express thanks
Forgive
Give freely
Harm no one
Imagine more
Jettison anger
Keep confidence
Love truly
Master something
Nurture hope
Open your mind
Pack lightly
Quell rumors
Reciprocate
Seek wisdom
Touch hearts
Understand
Value truth
Win graciously
Xeriscape
Yearn for peace
Zealously support a worthy cause
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Be Humble and Hungry - Graduation Advice
This comes from Jon Gordon's newsletter, and provided much food for thought, especially at this time when so many commencement addresses are being given...
A young man asked me the other day if I had one piece of advice to give him, as he graduates college, what it would be. I told him to be humble and hungry.
Be humble. Don’t think you know it all. See yourself as a life-long learner who is always seeking ways to learn, grow and improve.
Be humble. See everyone as a teacher and learn from everyone you meet.
Be humble. Be open to new ideas and strategies to take your life and work to the next level.
Be humble. When people tell you that you are great don’t let it go to your head. And when they tell you that you stink, don’t let it go to your head.
Be humble. Because the minute you think you have arrived at the door of greatness it will get shut in your face.
Be hungry. Live and work with a passion to continuously improve and set new goals and milestones.
Be hungry. Seek out new ideas, new strategies and new innovations to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
Be hungry. Invest the time, energy, sweat and dedication to be your best.
Be hungry. Focus on being the best you can be and strive to get better every day.
Be hungry. Because you can’t ignite the world unless a fire is burning inside you.
Be hungry. With a commitment to pay the price that greatness requires.
As I shared this advice with the young man I hoped he wouldn’t just remember it for now but for the rest of his life because being humble and hungry is not only meant for the young but for all of us who want to be our best. Whether you are in business, education, healthcare, the ministry, the arts or sports... remember to stay humble and hungry and everything else will take care of itself.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
I Believe in You
The right messages always have a way of coming to us at precisely the right time...
These words come from a wonderful video you can see at Jon Gordon's site. Watch it, and share it, and spread its wonderful message and the light!
I Believe in You
When you face a setback, think of it as a defining moment that will lead to a future accomplishment.
When you encounter adversity, remember, the best don't just face adversity, they embrace it, knowing it's not a dead end but a detour to something greater and better.
When you face negative people, know that the key to life is to stay positive in the face of negativity, not in the absence of it. After all, everyone will have to overcome negativity to define themselves and create their success.
When you have the naysayers, remember the people who believed in you and spoke positive words to you.
When you face critics, remember to tune them out and focus only on being the best you can be.
When you wake up in the morning, take a morning walk of gratitude and prayer. It will create a fertile mind ready for success.
When you fear, trust. Let your faith be greater than your doubt.
When you fail, find the lesson in it. And then recall a time when you have succeeded.
When you head into battle, visualize success.
When you are thinking about the past, or worrying about the future, instead focus your energy on the present moment. The now is where your power is the greatest.
When you want to complain, instead identify a solution.
When your own self-doubt crowds your mind, weed it and replace it with positive thoughts and positive self-talk.
When you feel distracted, focus on your breathing, observe your surroundings, clear your mind, and get into the Zone. The Zone is not a random event. It can be created.
When you feel all is impossible, know that with God all things are possible.
When you feel alone, think of all the people who have helped you along the way and who love and support you now.
When you feel lost, pray for guidance.
When you are tired and drained, remember to never, never, never give up. Finish strong in everything you do.
When you feel like you can't do it, know that you can do all things through Him who gives you strength.
When you feel like your situation is beyond your control, pray and surrender. Focus on what can you can control and let go of what you can't.
When you're in a high-pressure situation and everything is on the line, and everyone is watching you, remember to smile, have fun, and enjoy it. Life is a start. You only live once. You have nothing to lose. Seize the moment.
I believe in you!
These words come from a wonderful video you can see at Jon Gordon's site. Watch it, and share it, and spread its wonderful message and the light!
I Believe in You
When you face a setback, think of it as a defining moment that will lead to a future accomplishment.
When you encounter adversity, remember, the best don't just face adversity, they embrace it, knowing it's not a dead end but a detour to something greater and better.
When you face negative people, know that the key to life is to stay positive in the face of negativity, not in the absence of it. After all, everyone will have to overcome negativity to define themselves and create their success.
When you have the naysayers, remember the people who believed in you and spoke positive words to you.
When you face critics, remember to tune them out and focus only on being the best you can be.
When you wake up in the morning, take a morning walk of gratitude and prayer. It will create a fertile mind ready for success.
When you fear, trust. Let your faith be greater than your doubt.
When you fail, find the lesson in it. And then recall a time when you have succeeded.
When you head into battle, visualize success.
When you are thinking about the past, or worrying about the future, instead focus your energy on the present moment. The now is where your power is the greatest.
When you want to complain, instead identify a solution.
When your own self-doubt crowds your mind, weed it and replace it with positive thoughts and positive self-talk.
When you feel distracted, focus on your breathing, observe your surroundings, clear your mind, and get into the Zone. The Zone is not a random event. It can be created.
When you feel all is impossible, know that with God all things are possible.
When you feel alone, think of all the people who have helped you along the way and who love and support you now.
When you feel lost, pray for guidance.
When you are tired and drained, remember to never, never, never give up. Finish strong in everything you do.
When you feel like you can't do it, know that you can do all things through Him who gives you strength.
When you feel like your situation is beyond your control, pray and surrender. Focus on what can you can control and let go of what you can't.
When you're in a high-pressure situation and everything is on the line, and everyone is watching you, remember to smile, have fun, and enjoy it. Life is a start. You only live once. You have nothing to lose. Seize the moment.
I believe in you!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Grace and Beauty
I slowly ease into a magnificent Sunday morning after meditation, with grace, drinking in the myriad examples of beauty in my life...
I gratefully smile, recalling a wonderful evening spent with family and friends enjoying Garrison Keillor and "A Prairie Home Companion," at Wolftrap National Park for the Performing Arts - an event that has become a yearly tradition with a dear friend and her family...
The music, company, and food were exquisite - and the evening full of joy...Every present moment gracefully unfolded into the next, and the next one, and the one after that, so that each moment in and of itself seemed eternal, and in each one the Essence of the Divine was felt and touched.
Garrison is his vintage self - and I drink in the words to an exquisite song that he has written and think it to be, one of the most beautiful love songs I have ever heard:
I marvel at gifts received in recent messages sent - and the opportunity to connect once again, just as deeply, to a soul I have not spent time with in over thirty years...
Every day I am reminded - in so many instances and opportunities - that we are really all one - and the parameters and boundaries of the world are constantly shrinking...Even the veil which separates different planes and dimensions seems to be vanishing or disappearing...
My heart is warmed by a few brief postings of such grace and beauty - that seem the perfect messages for me - at precisely this time...
I gratefully smile, recalling a wonderful evening spent with family and friends enjoying Garrison Keillor and "A Prairie Home Companion," at Wolftrap National Park for the Performing Arts - an event that has become a yearly tradition with a dear friend and her family...
The music, company, and food were exquisite - and the evening full of joy...Every present moment gracefully unfolded into the next, and the next one, and the one after that, so that each moment in and of itself seemed eternal, and in each one the Essence of the Divine was felt and touched.
Garrison is his vintage self - and I drink in the words to an exquisite song that he has written and think it to be, one of the most beautiful love songs I have ever heard:
"Beautiful girl, in this cafe...
You are not alone...
What you feel now,
I too have known--
You are not alone...
When love is lost,
so much remains...
The steady roll of waves
along the coast...
The sweetness of the rain...
Racing down the hills unafraid...
Beautiful girl, in this cafe...
Now I am crying too
for my lost love.
She was a woman -
beautiful like you.
But now she's gone too...
You are not alone -
Here take my hand.
I'll take you home -
You are not alone."
You are not alone...
What you feel now,
I too have known--
You are not alone...
When love is lost,
so much remains...
The steady roll of waves
along the coast...
The sweetness of the rain...
Racing down the hills unafraid...
Beautiful girl, in this cafe...
Now I am crying too
for my lost love.
She was a woman -
beautiful like you.
But now she's gone too...
You are not alone -
Here take my hand.
I'll take you home -
You are not alone."
I marvel at gifts received in recent messages sent - and the opportunity to connect once again, just as deeply, to a soul I have not spent time with in over thirty years...
Every day I am reminded - in so many instances and opportunities - that we are really all one - and the parameters and boundaries of the world are constantly shrinking...Even the veil which separates different planes and dimensions seems to be vanishing or disappearing...
My heart is warmed by a few brief postings of such grace and beauty - that seem the perfect messages for me - at precisely this time...
"Your grief for what you've lost
raises a mirror up
to where you're bravely working.
- Rumi
Fear contracts. Trust opens.
Fear pretends to be caution.
Trust is often seen as foolishness.
Be a fool and dissolve old fear.
O Fountain of Love!
Make me feel that my heart
is flooded by Thine omnipresent love.
-Yogananda
The way you make love
is the way God will be with you."
- Rumi
raises a mirror up
to where you're bravely working.
- Rumi
Fear contracts. Trust opens.
Fear pretends to be caution.
Trust is often seen as foolishness.
Be a fool and dissolve old fear.
O Fountain of Love!
Make me feel that my heart
is flooded by Thine omnipresent love.
-Yogananda
The way you make love
is the way God will be with you."
- Rumi
Friday, May 22, 2009
What is Advanced Yoga?
What is advanced yoga?
Some would say - that doing challenging poses that require much exertion - such as inversions and arm balances constitute advanced yoga. Certainly they are not poses to be undertaken by someone who is wandering into their first yoga class, although I have frequently heard horror stories of folks being initiated into yoga by being told to do a headstand - often with little instruction. This is a pose that can be quite dangerous to a person new to the practice. And, there are those who should never do this pose because of special conditions or considerations.
Betsey Downing, an Certified Anusara Yoga teacher and one of my first yoga teachers, often likes to remind her students that doing the advanced form of a pose is doing it with a smile on their faces - particularly if it involves a challenging pose with a long hold!
Noah Maze, another Certified Anusara Yoga teacher, in his latest newsletter, recalls one of his first yoga teachers, Richard Freeman, telling him that the most advanced series or sequence of yoga, is living the life of a householder. Of course, this implies, that there is a direct connection between one's practice on the mat - and off of it. Seane Corn, a very well known national yoga teacher whom I had the blessing to study with in 2005, has dedicated her life to inspiring a whole generation of yoga practitioners to take their practice off of the mat, and into the world.
I like to tell my students, that advanced yoga is doing the practice mindfully. Taking one's time to embody principles of alignment - beginning with how one even begins the practice - how the hands or the feet are placed on the mat - mindfully and reverently - says a lot about one's practice and how it connects one's interior life with the exterior one.
Students often get intimidated or identified with "levels" of classes - saying they are a Level 1 or Level 2 student. And yet, all levels are not created equal - and what is classified as a level 2 in one environment, might be a Level 3 or a 4 somewhere else. Labels can be so limiting and meaningless at times.
It does not really matter whether one masters all - or even one pose that is considered advanced. It is the attitude and awareness with which that pose is practiced - and how it positively and transformationally impacts on one's daily living that makes it advanced. When I get off of my mat - am I a better person? Am I more compassionate? These are are the questions that truly matter. If we change for the better - if we grow - and encourage others to grow - if we help to change one little aspect of our lives - or have a positive impact on another life - then our yoga is truly advanced.
I believe that all yoga is advanced - or it is not at all. There is no inbetween. It is practiced from a place of awareness and dedication to growth as spiritual beings in an embodied state - or it is not. It is practiced with the intent to heal or transform - oneself or the planet - or it is not...
Some would say - that doing challenging poses that require much exertion - such as inversions and arm balances constitute advanced yoga. Certainly they are not poses to be undertaken by someone who is wandering into their first yoga class, although I have frequently heard horror stories of folks being initiated into yoga by being told to do a headstand - often with little instruction. This is a pose that can be quite dangerous to a person new to the practice. And, there are those who should never do this pose because of special conditions or considerations.
Betsey Downing, an Certified Anusara Yoga teacher and one of my first yoga teachers, often likes to remind her students that doing the advanced form of a pose is doing it with a smile on their faces - particularly if it involves a challenging pose with a long hold!
Noah Maze, another Certified Anusara Yoga teacher, in his latest newsletter, recalls one of his first yoga teachers, Richard Freeman, telling him that the most advanced series or sequence of yoga, is living the life of a householder. Of course, this implies, that there is a direct connection between one's practice on the mat - and off of it. Seane Corn, a very well known national yoga teacher whom I had the blessing to study with in 2005, has dedicated her life to inspiring a whole generation of yoga practitioners to take their practice off of the mat, and into the world.
I like to tell my students, that advanced yoga is doing the practice mindfully. Taking one's time to embody principles of alignment - beginning with how one even begins the practice - how the hands or the feet are placed on the mat - mindfully and reverently - says a lot about one's practice and how it connects one's interior life with the exterior one.
Students often get intimidated or identified with "levels" of classes - saying they are a Level 1 or Level 2 student. And yet, all levels are not created equal - and what is classified as a level 2 in one environment, might be a Level 3 or a 4 somewhere else. Labels can be so limiting and meaningless at times.
It does not really matter whether one masters all - or even one pose that is considered advanced. It is the attitude and awareness with which that pose is practiced - and how it positively and transformationally impacts on one's daily living that makes it advanced. When I get off of my mat - am I a better person? Am I more compassionate? These are are the questions that truly matter. If we change for the better - if we grow - and encourage others to grow - if we help to change one little aspect of our lives - or have a positive impact on another life - then our yoga is truly advanced.
I believe that all yoga is advanced - or it is not at all. There is no inbetween. It is practiced from a place of awareness and dedication to growth as spiritual beings in an embodied state - or it is not. It is practiced with the intent to heal or transform - oneself or the planet - or it is not...
Thursday, May 21, 2009
With Gratitude
Today, on the day of the Guru - I crossed the river to take my yoga class with a few friends. My wonderful teacher, Suzie Hurley, the owner of Willow Street Yoga Center - the largest Anusara Yoga studio with the largest number of Anusara certified teachers - taught a rocking good class, with at least four other Anusara teachers taking the class.
Suzie's theme was gratitude. She began by speaking of the chakras and particularly of the heart chakra's central point - noting that three chakras were below the heart - and three were above it. We chanted "Yum" - the mantra of the heart chakra to open our hearts as she led us through a sequence of poses that required us to melt our hearts as a direct action of "Opening to Grace" - and the active engagement of "shoulder loop."
Suzie also asked the class to share something we were grateful for - asking some of us individually. When she asked me - I said I was grateful for all the people in my life. It was wonderful to hear what other folks were grateful for.
At the end of class, my friends and I drove home - thinking of so many things for which we could give thanks.
This was a special class - because my teacher used the comments and quotes I had used in a class I had taught last summer. It was beautiful to hear how she wove the essence of my centering into the Anusara principles and yet made it uniquely her own.
On this day when the student honors the guru - the lines between teacher and student were somewhat blurred. My teacher honored me as a colleague and student - by enriching and enlarging my insights - and sharing them so gracefully with a larger and different audience from the seat of the teacher.
As I have often said - we are always teachers and students to one another - and I am grateful for that!
Suzie's theme was gratitude. She began by speaking of the chakras and particularly of the heart chakra's central point - noting that three chakras were below the heart - and three were above it. We chanted "Yum" - the mantra of the heart chakra to open our hearts as she led us through a sequence of poses that required us to melt our hearts as a direct action of "Opening to Grace" - and the active engagement of "shoulder loop."
Suzie also asked the class to share something we were grateful for - asking some of us individually. When she asked me - I said I was grateful for all the people in my life. It was wonderful to hear what other folks were grateful for.
At the end of class, my friends and I drove home - thinking of so many things for which we could give thanks.
This was a special class - because my teacher used the comments and quotes I had used in a class I had taught last summer. It was beautiful to hear how she wove the essence of my centering into the Anusara principles and yet made it uniquely her own.
On this day when the student honors the guru - the lines between teacher and student were somewhat blurred. My teacher honored me as a colleague and student - by enriching and enlarging my insights - and sharing them so gracefully with a larger and different audience from the seat of the teacher.
As I have often said - we are always teachers and students to one another - and I am grateful for that!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Gems From Kindred Souls
Every morning now, after my meditation, I quickly scan the newest "tweets" I've received, and I am amazed at the beauty of so many of them. They are such an inspiration. I have always loved collecting quotes - and now I can either wake up or go to bed to a fragrant bouquet - sent by a host of kindred souls!
I have to say, as a result of becoming engaged with online social networks, I am finding that this vast world is becoming smaller and smaller - and yet the bright light that is shining from people's hearts is simultaneously becoming brighter and brighter. I am filled with a lot of joy and hope as I have not been in a long time! For the first time, I am seeing and registering tangible examples that consciousness has shifted tremendously on this planet...
Truly, in the words of Julian of Norwich, "all shall be well!"
Here is a list of some of the gems that that I have scribbled down in the last couple of days, coming from so many different sources, which I did not always note unfortunately. May they inspire your heart and brighten your world, as they have mine!
And know, that for each and every one of these quotes - there were dozens and hundreds of others - that touched and kissed my soul - making my heart smile and my spirit soar!
What an a wonderful way to use technology!
I have to say, as a result of becoming engaged with online social networks, I am finding that this vast world is becoming smaller and smaller - and yet the bright light that is shining from people's hearts is simultaneously becoming brighter and brighter. I am filled with a lot of joy and hope as I have not been in a long time! For the first time, I am seeing and registering tangible examples that consciousness has shifted tremendously on this planet...
Truly, in the words of Julian of Norwich, "all shall be well!"
Here is a list of some of the gems that that I have scribbled down in the last couple of days, coming from so many different sources, which I did not always note unfortunately. May they inspire your heart and brighten your world, as they have mine!
"When someone loves you
the way they say your name is different.
You know your name is safe
in their mouth...
Grace happens,
as long as you have a heartfelt,
consistent spiritual practice...
How can the heart in love
every stop opening?
- Rumi
Consider yourself
sensed and loved!
When may I give you my heart?
When it is no longer
yours or mine.
- Tykal
Without memory, there is no healing.
Without forgiveness, there is no future.
- Desmond Tutu
Don't cry because its over.
Smile because it happened.
The minutes are more important
than the years.
- Yogananda
Failure is the best time
for sowing the seeds of success.
- Yogananda
The most beautiful discovery
true friends make
is that they can grow separately
without growing apart.
- Elizabeth Foley
If you see the Grace of God
with your whole heart,
then be assured the Grace of God
is also seeking you.
- Ramana Maharshi
O supremely Beloved of my heart,
may my life be an unwavering,
unconditional expression
of love for you!
I am always ready
for a kiss from the Beloved!"
the way they say your name is different.
You know your name is safe
in their mouth...
Grace happens,
as long as you have a heartfelt,
consistent spiritual practice...
How can the heart in love
every stop opening?
- Rumi
Consider yourself
sensed and loved!
When may I give you my heart?
When it is no longer
yours or mine.
- Tykal
Without memory, there is no healing.
Without forgiveness, there is no future.
- Desmond Tutu
Don't cry because its over.
Smile because it happened.
The minutes are more important
than the years.
- Yogananda
Failure is the best time
for sowing the seeds of success.
- Yogananda
The most beautiful discovery
true friends make
is that they can grow separately
without growing apart.
- Elizabeth Foley
If you see the Grace of God
with your whole heart,
then be assured the Grace of God
is also seeking you.
- Ramana Maharshi
O supremely Beloved of my heart,
may my life be an unwavering,
unconditional expression
of love for you!
I am always ready
for a kiss from the Beloved!"
And know, that for each and every one of these quotes - there were dozens and hundreds of others - that touched and kissed my soul - making my heart smile and my spirit soar!
What an a wonderful way to use technology!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Strength and Foundations
This morning, as I worked with "Muscular Energy" - the second of the Anusara Yoga Universal Principles of Alignment, I reminded my students that when they engage muscle energy - they begin their practice by setting a strong foundation so that they can then draw on their inner strength. This source of inner strength is unlimited as evidenced in my favorite quote by Rumi:
By hugging the muscles to the bones - and drawing in towards the midline, and from the periphery to the core - we not only set a strong foundation - but we tap into our inner source of strength - and then we make beauty and art with our bodies as our practice is expressed from the inside out as poetry in motion.
Sometimes, our foundations crumble and must be rebuilt. I shared with my students - that in many ways that has been the theme of my life the last couple of years - rebuilding my foundations to make myself stronger...
We are supported in many ways - some seen, and others unseen. The whole practice supports our growth and development. Setting a strong foundation provides the nourishment for our development and feeds our strength...
I shared with my students how my foundations are being strengthened and enriched by connections I am making online through Facebook and Twitter. The first of these social networks has enabled me to connect with people from all walks of my past and life. The second is allowing me to make new connections I would never have been able to make.
This morning, as I reviewed many of the beautiful postings made by other like minded souls sharing inspiration from many different sources, the awareness came to me - that we were a community of people out there edifying each others' souls - and indeed, shrinking the very parameters and boundaries of the planet. We were embodying the reality of our oneness and connection...
I am in awe of connections I've made recently - most especially with one wonderful soul who chose to endorse my writings to his own community of followers, urging them to support me - telling them that I was "quietly weaving my own poetic spirituality." Who could have foreseen this possibility even a few short years ago? Truly, we are not alone!
Sometimes, we must let go of the foundations that no longer serve us - and find others that will more adequately sustain us. As I guided my students through the radiant expressions of their poses, I noted how when they rooted and drew in - they tapped into their inner sources of strength - which then enabled them to further unveil their magnificent hearts - as they organically extended - like unfurling leaves and blossoms in search of the sun.
We have within us - everything that we need - and when we share that - we strengthen the Universal web of connections - and heal ourselves and others - one person - and one beautiful and unique expression of the Divine - at a time!
"The whole universe is inside of you.
Ask all from yourself."
Ask all from yourself."
By hugging the muscles to the bones - and drawing in towards the midline, and from the periphery to the core - we not only set a strong foundation - but we tap into our inner source of strength - and then we make beauty and art with our bodies as our practice is expressed from the inside out as poetry in motion.
Sometimes, our foundations crumble and must be rebuilt. I shared with my students - that in many ways that has been the theme of my life the last couple of years - rebuilding my foundations to make myself stronger...
We are supported in many ways - some seen, and others unseen. The whole practice supports our growth and development. Setting a strong foundation provides the nourishment for our development and feeds our strength...
I shared with my students how my foundations are being strengthened and enriched by connections I am making online through Facebook and Twitter. The first of these social networks has enabled me to connect with people from all walks of my past and life. The second is allowing me to make new connections I would never have been able to make.
This morning, as I reviewed many of the beautiful postings made by other like minded souls sharing inspiration from many different sources, the awareness came to me - that we were a community of people out there edifying each others' souls - and indeed, shrinking the very parameters and boundaries of the planet. We were embodying the reality of our oneness and connection...
I am in awe of connections I've made recently - most especially with one wonderful soul who chose to endorse my writings to his own community of followers, urging them to support me - telling them that I was "quietly weaving my own poetic spirituality." Who could have foreseen this possibility even a few short years ago? Truly, we are not alone!
Sometimes, we must let go of the foundations that no longer serve us - and find others that will more adequately sustain us. As I guided my students through the radiant expressions of their poses, I noted how when they rooted and drew in - they tapped into their inner sources of strength - which then enabled them to further unveil their magnificent hearts - as they organically extended - like unfurling leaves and blossoms in search of the sun.
We have within us - everything that we need - and when we share that - we strengthen the Universal web of connections - and heal ourselves and others - one person - and one beautiful and unique expression of the Divine - at a time!
Saturday, May 16, 2009
River Ablutions
Early on this Saturday morning, I head down to the river before the rain - and even before my usual morning meditation, to commune with the river...
I step in, and paddle away from the launch area - reciting one line of the Ho'oponopono Hawaiian healing and meditation practice - for each stroke of my paddle - over and over again - like a sacred mantra - as I perform my river ablutions...
This mantra is not recited for a person or a situation in particular - but is instead offered freely, from the heart - to the Divine who is the source of all healing...
I swim in the realization that there are layers upon layers that must still be uncovered in every significant lesson and healing experience of our lives. When we think we are done with an issue, it surfaces again, peeling back another layer like an onion, revealing another level of work we must engage in...
The work is never done - and the lessons are never finished...It is a constant labor of love and of heartache as well...
I paddle straight across to the Maryland side and am drawn to a little grove of wild flowers...
It is overcast, and looking ominous - but I paddle and float for a while - not intending to go very far. I feel supported and safe here on this river - as if I am held in the very embrace of the Divine...
I review lessons I have been given in the last couple of days that remind me that I still have so much inner work to be done - so much to release and let go of...I float, and rest my paddle across Grace - my vessel on this river and my constant companion - this kayak has journeyed with me through so much in this last year...
I watch a couple of droplets of water exquisitely release from my paddle back into the river - like individual tears - so emblematic of my soul - seeking to merge with the Great Ocean of Consciousness...
I am still and I hear the voice of the Divine - reminded once again, as I was earlier this week - that the words "silent" and "listen" are both comprised of the same letters. We cannot truly listen - if we are not first silent...
The messages I receive are deep, and personal - and comforting - and so "spot on." In the breezy silence of the river I receive and accept what is given...
I paddle back, and as I begin to pull Grace out of the water, the rain begins to come, with soft, gentle, cleansing drops. The heavens participate in my river ablutions, baptizing me once again, at the mouth of this river...
And I head home with this beautiful thought from Yogananda in my heart as well:
We are never alone - on land or on water - through our myriad lessons and tasks. We carry the Divine and beloved souls within the confines of our hearts. And that is enough...
I step in, and paddle away from the launch area - reciting one line of the Ho'oponopono Hawaiian healing and meditation practice - for each stroke of my paddle - over and over again - like a sacred mantra - as I perform my river ablutions...
This mantra is not recited for a person or a situation in particular - but is instead offered freely, from the heart - to the Divine who is the source of all healing...
"I'm sorry.
Forgive me.
I love you.
Thank you."
Forgive me.
I love you.
Thank you."
Over and over again I repeat each line - perfectly in sync with every stroke of my paddle as it dips into the water...
I swim in the realization that there are layers upon layers that must still be uncovered in every significant lesson and healing experience of our lives. When we think we are done with an issue, it surfaces again, peeling back another layer like an onion, revealing another level of work we must engage in...
The work is never done - and the lessons are never finished...It is a constant labor of love and of heartache as well...
I paddle straight across to the Maryland side and am drawn to a little grove of wild flowers...
It is overcast, and looking ominous - but I paddle and float for a while - not intending to go very far. I feel supported and safe here on this river - as if I am held in the very embrace of the Divine...
I review lessons I have been given in the last couple of days that remind me that I still have so much inner work to be done - so much to release and let go of...I float, and rest my paddle across Grace - my vessel on this river and my constant companion - this kayak has journeyed with me through so much in this last year...
I watch a couple of droplets of water exquisitely release from my paddle back into the river - like individual tears - so emblematic of my soul - seeking to merge with the Great Ocean of Consciousness...
I am still and I hear the voice of the Divine - reminded once again, as I was earlier this week - that the words "silent" and "listen" are both comprised of the same letters. We cannot truly listen - if we are not first silent...
The messages I receive are deep, and personal - and comforting - and so "spot on." In the breezy silence of the river I receive and accept what is given...
I paddle back, and as I begin to pull Grace out of the water, the rain begins to come, with soft, gentle, cleansing drops. The heavens participate in my river ablutions, baptizing me once again, at the mouth of this river...
And I head home with this beautiful thought from Yogananda in my heart as well:
"There is no space between minds and souls.
Though far away,
in thought our loved ones
and all things
are really ever near."
Though far away,
in thought our loved ones
and all things
are really ever near."
We are never alone - on land or on water - through our myriad lessons and tasks. We carry the Divine and beloved souls within the confines of our hearts. And that is enough...
Friday, May 15, 2009
My River of Grace
This morning, I finally had an opportunity to launch my kayak - Grace - and myself - into the river. It was a quiet morning, with not a single soul in sight in the river. It was just me, a magnificent blue heron like I had never seen - (or was it perhaps - "the one?") - and very vocal geese, a couple of mallard ducks, and quite a few exuberant bass fish making a splash as they danced for joy here and there.
It was the first truly warm - almost bordering on hot day in a very long time...
I was mesmerized taking in the striking profile of the blue heron who calmly surveyed the expanse of the river, now exploding in every variety of rich and verdant greens. The whole river was teeming vibrantly with life! And love!
The paddling was effortless at times - and it seemed to me that there is an art, almost a poetry to paddling. I was in the flow, without a care in the world, simply enjoying every moment that spilled into the next, and the next one after that...
Like the meditating Jake on one of my bumper stickers in the back of my car, I thought to myself, "Life is good!"
This morning, as I looked at my email briefly before heading out to the river, I noticed that a few more people were following me on Twitter. I like to click on their profiles and learn a little more about them.
I was quite startled to receive this message in my in box:
For a moment, my lungs emptied of their breath - as I paused in "kumbhaka" for an eternity - and I thought to myself - could it really be true? Is this a tangible message from the other side? (Of course, when I told my husband this story, he merely rolled his eyes).
I clicked on "Yogananda's" profile and discovered that he likes to post quotes from the Master himself, and so I thought he would definitely be a good one to follow on Twitter. I tend to be very selective, and stick to inspirational people...
As I emerged from the river, I could not help but think of how different my life has become in this last year or so. Interestingly, in the last few days and weeks I have connected with some people I've not seen in a year and half, and it was wonderful to catch up...
Once more I think of Julian of Norwich's uplifting words, that have served as my life long mantra, in times of joy, of sadness, and in this moment:
Enjoy your day!
It was the first truly warm - almost bordering on hot day in a very long time...
I was mesmerized taking in the striking profile of the blue heron who calmly surveyed the expanse of the river, now exploding in every variety of rich and verdant greens. The whole river was teeming vibrantly with life! And love!
The paddling was effortless at times - and it seemed to me that there is an art, almost a poetry to paddling. I was in the flow, without a care in the world, simply enjoying every moment that spilled into the next, and the next one after that...
Like the meditating Jake on one of my bumper stickers in the back of my car, I thought to myself, "Life is good!"
This morning, as I looked at my email briefly before heading out to the river, I noticed that a few more people were following me on Twitter. I like to click on their profiles and learn a little more about them.
I was quite startled to receive this message in my in box:
"Paramahansa Yogananda is now following you on Twitter!"
For a moment, my lungs emptied of their breath - as I paused in "kumbhaka" for an eternity - and I thought to myself - could it really be true? Is this a tangible message from the other side? (Of course, when I told my husband this story, he merely rolled his eyes).
I clicked on "Yogananda's" profile and discovered that he likes to post quotes from the Master himself, and so I thought he would definitely be a good one to follow on Twitter. I tend to be very selective, and stick to inspirational people...
As I emerged from the river, I could not help but think of how different my life has become in this last year or so. Interestingly, in the last few days and weeks I have connected with some people I've not seen in a year and half, and it was wonderful to catch up...
Once more I think of Julian of Norwich's uplifting words, that have served as my life long mantra, in times of joy, of sadness, and in this moment:
"All shall be well,
and and all shall be well,
and all manner of things shall be well."
and and all shall be well,
and all manner of things shall be well."
Enjoy your day!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Get 10% Off on ALL My Books in May!
I am passing on a discount from LULU.COM where I self publish my books.
Visit my storefront on LULU.COM - accessible on my home page:
www.aligningwithgrace.com
or at my storefront (also on my homepage):
http://stores.lulu.com/aligningwithgrace
Purchase any and every book for 10% off! Consider getting some to give away as gifts!
Click on "BUY" and then just enter the following code when you check out:
MAYCONTEST10
Enjoy and happy reading!
With love, grace, and blessings,
Olga
Visit my storefront on LULU.COM - accessible on my home page:
www.aligningwithgrace.com
or at my storefront (also on my homepage):
http://stores.lulu.com/aligningwithgrace
Purchase any and every book for 10% off! Consider getting some to give away as gifts!
Click on "BUY" and then just enter the following code when you check out:
MAYCONTEST10
Enjoy and happy reading!
With love, grace, and blessings,
Olga
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Twittering and Puttering
Another nice day...
I went to the river briefly after an acupuncture treatment for a visit. It is still flooded, and I struck up a conversation with a guy who had just come out of the water. He works for the State Department and likes to hit it several times a week. It seems I keep meeting kayakers who work there all the time!
When I got home a friend called me and invited me out for coffee. We traveled over to Reston and had our iced coffees in a beautiful park in the middle of the Town Center and had a few good laughs...
As I prepare to go into my evening meditation, I thought I would share a few of my recent postings from Facebook, that either referred to the writings of Paramahansa Yogananda, or were excerpts from my Denver notes. For those of you on Facebook, the last quote is a sneak preview of what I will post as my the inspirational quote for my status tomorrow - so shhhh!
I went to the river briefly after an acupuncture treatment for a visit. It is still flooded, and I struck up a conversation with a guy who had just come out of the water. He works for the State Department and likes to hit it several times a week. It seems I keep meeting kayakers who work there all the time!
When I got home a friend called me and invited me out for coffee. We traveled over to Reston and had our iced coffees in a beautiful park in the middle of the Town Center and had a few good laughs...
As I prepare to go into my evening meditation, I thought I would share a few of my recent postings from Facebook, that either referred to the writings of Paramahansa Yogananda, or were excerpts from my Denver notes. For those of you on Facebook, the last quote is a sneak preview of what I will post as my the inspirational quote for my status tomorrow - so shhhh!
"When we begin to awaken,
there arises within us
an instinct of remembrance
that there must be more to life.
Then we are launched into
the second great act of our existence -
and we match what happens inside of us
with what is happening externally."
- Paul Muller Ortega
there arises within us
an instinct of remembrance
that there must be more to life.
Then we are launched into
the second great act of our existence -
and we match what happens inside of us
with what is happening externally."
- Paul Muller Ortega
"The highest form of earthly love is friendship.
Until the pure Divine Love of true friendship
has been expressed by the soul
in a human incarnation,
there will be no liberation."
- Yogananda
Until the pure Divine Love of true friendship
has been expressed by the soul
in a human incarnation,
there will be no liberation."
- Yogananda
"We are immersed
in the Great Ocean of Consciousness.
We are the expression of Siva
who dances inside of us - as us -
even in our suffering."
- Paul Muller Ortega on the Siva Sutas
in the Great Ocean of Consciousness.
We are the expression of Siva
who dances inside of us - as us -
even in our suffering."
- Paul Muller Ortega on the Siva Sutas
"To be merged in worldly consciousness
causes misery and increased desires,
but to be in the world but not of the world -
or better still, to enjoy the world with the pure joy of God -
brings lasting happiness."
- Yogananda
causes misery and increased desires,
but to be in the world but not of the world -
or better still, to enjoy the world with the pure joy of God -
brings lasting happiness."
- Yogananda
" With God in your heart,
and a smile on your face,
let your hands ungrudgingly work for truth alone.
Then you will find real happiness
wherever you may be."
- Yogananda
and a smile on your face,
let your hands ungrudgingly work for truth alone.
Then you will find real happiness
wherever you may be."
- Yogananda
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Resting and Twittering
I am experiencing a gentle re-entry after the incredible week in Denver...
Right now, I am listening to an interview with John Friend that was conducted by The Elephant Journal in Boulder, CO the week of the gathering as I review some "tweets" (updates) on Twitter. I have chosen to follow a few folks that post some short inspirational quotes.
Many people I know say they see no purpose to Twitter and posting "tweets" - and are generally quite disparaging of this phenomena - but I say - its all in how you use it. I feel the same about all the social networking sites out there.
Here are some postings from today:
For the John Friend interview, visit:
www.elephantjournal.com
Right now, I am listening to an interview with John Friend that was conducted by The Elephant Journal in Boulder, CO the week of the gathering as I review some "tweets" (updates) on Twitter. I have chosen to follow a few folks that post some short inspirational quotes.
Many people I know say they see no purpose to Twitter and posting "tweets" - and are generally quite disparaging of this phenomena - but I say - its all in how you use it. I feel the same about all the social networking sites out there.
Here are some postings from today:
"Forgiveness is the final form of love."
- Reinhold Niebuhr
"Non one can make you feel inferior
without your consent."
- Eleanor Roosevelt
"You were born with wings.
Why prefer to crawl through life?"
- Rumi
"The heart is God's living room."
- Ramakrishna
"Love gives courage a home."
"Be a hollow bamboo i.e.
let it come through you
not from you."
"{I am Passionate} ~ Love is a given, hatred is acquired."
- D. Horton
"Silent and listen
are spelled with the same letters."
(I LOVE this one! I think I hear a class theme in it!)
- Reinhold Niebuhr
"Non one can make you feel inferior
without your consent."
- Eleanor Roosevelt
"You were born with wings.
Why prefer to crawl through life?"
- Rumi
"The heart is God's living room."
- Ramakrishna
"Love gives courage a home."
"Be a hollow bamboo i.e.
let it come through you
not from you."
"{I am Passionate} ~ Love is a given, hatred is acquired."
- D. Horton
"Silent and listen
are spelled with the same letters."
(I LOVE this one! I think I hear a class theme in it!)
For the John Friend interview, visit:
www.elephantjournal.com
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mother's Day
It was a wonderful lazy day. I slept in - then went to Starbucks to have coffee and read the paper.
In the late afternoon it was off to Clyde's, one of my favorite restaurants, for an early dinner with my guys. About ten years ago or so - we went there for brunch and I received a geranium which I still have, and which still blooms for me.
The Spiritual Diary of Paramahansa Yogananda, records this wonderful excerpt from his writings for Mother's Day:
"In India we like to speak of God as Mother Divine, because a true mother is more tender and forgiving than a father. The mother is an expression of the unconditional love of God. Mothers were created by God to show us that He loves us with or without cause. Every woman is to me a representative of the Mother. I see the Cosmic Mother in all. That which I find most admirable in woman is her mother love."
To all you mothers out there - hope you had a good one!
In the late afternoon it was off to Clyde's, one of my favorite restaurants, for an early dinner with my guys. About ten years ago or so - we went there for brunch and I received a geranium which I still have, and which still blooms for me.
The Spiritual Diary of Paramahansa Yogananda, records this wonderful excerpt from his writings for Mother's Day:
"In India we like to speak of God as Mother Divine, because a true mother is more tender and forgiving than a father. The mother is an expression of the unconditional love of God. Mothers were created by God to show us that He loves us with or without cause. Every woman is to me a representative of the Mother. I see the Cosmic Mother in all. That which I find most admirable in woman is her mother love."
To all you mothers out there - hope you had a good one!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Awakening
I am at home, enjoying a wonderful bordeaux, cheese and pate, and transcribing my notes...
The week in Denver was magnificent. It many ways, it was a turning point for me...
The last day did not disappoint, and I am currently transcribing 75 pages of handwritten notes. I have typed three days worth, and still have a couple more to go...
On the last day, Paul Muller Ortega addressed the process of awakening into Great Consciousness. The Tantric text that we studied all week, the Siva Sutras, is in essence, a manual for consciousness...
Here are some of my notes from the last day. I realize it may not make sense to many - still - I wish to share them:
"We are that Great Consciousness and we always have been – we have simply chosen freely to dance in the waves of transformation. In that process – in one or another moment of being embodied – in a particular life as a mysterious and grace saturated moment – that which has caused bondage in many life times – begins to release itself.
“Anava mala” – (which is not a negative thing) allows Great Consciousness to show the mystical reflections of infinite possibilities of Lord Siva. It creates great beauty and extraordinary challenges – yet we are never abandoned by that Great Consciousness.
There is victorious victory over those challenges – so we overcome, surpass, and even bless the challenges that we receive. Thus – we are revealed the great secret of life.
Somehow – in some moment – we begin to awaken because there arises within us an instinct of remembrance – there must be more to life. Then we are launched into the second great act of our existence.
This impulse is real – and it deals with profound human reality. Our eyes open in this process of awakening. We match what is happening in the inside of us with what is happening externally in the outside world.
Sometimes this process is not easy and it affects our lives, our relationships, etc., but even in the midst of this – grace does not leave us bereft – it does not abandon us.
You have to be already stirring and cracking through the shell of your “anava mala” to be awakened by a guru – so that you are already looking to the sky and saying – when can I fly? (In other words – the awakening cannot happen unless we have begun to do the preparatory work for it to happen).
Thus, the hatchings that come to us – and look towards us – are looking for guidance.
In this process of our own awakening – even in the early stages of it – we still are able to serve others. Students come to you – and you serve them – sometimes by a single sentence that you utter, a look you give them, or by a loving touch or adjustment. We share our support with others.
We are in an era of planetary awakening – it is really an extraordinary time..."
Yes...It is!
The week in Denver was magnificent. It many ways, it was a turning point for me...
The last day did not disappoint, and I am currently transcribing 75 pages of handwritten notes. I have typed three days worth, and still have a couple more to go...
On the last day, Paul Muller Ortega addressed the process of awakening into Great Consciousness. The Tantric text that we studied all week, the Siva Sutras, is in essence, a manual for consciousness...
Here are some of my notes from the last day. I realize it may not make sense to many - still - I wish to share them:
"We are that Great Consciousness and we always have been – we have simply chosen freely to dance in the waves of transformation. In that process – in one or another moment of being embodied – in a particular life as a mysterious and grace saturated moment – that which has caused bondage in many life times – begins to release itself.
“Anava mala” – (which is not a negative thing) allows Great Consciousness to show the mystical reflections of infinite possibilities of Lord Siva. It creates great beauty and extraordinary challenges – yet we are never abandoned by that Great Consciousness.
There is victorious victory over those challenges – so we overcome, surpass, and even bless the challenges that we receive. Thus – we are revealed the great secret of life.
Somehow – in some moment – we begin to awaken because there arises within us an instinct of remembrance – there must be more to life. Then we are launched into the second great act of our existence.
This impulse is real – and it deals with profound human reality. Our eyes open in this process of awakening. We match what is happening in the inside of us with what is happening externally in the outside world.
Sometimes this process is not easy and it affects our lives, our relationships, etc., but even in the midst of this – grace does not leave us bereft – it does not abandon us.
You have to be already stirring and cracking through the shell of your “anava mala” to be awakened by a guru – so that you are already looking to the sky and saying – when can I fly? (In other words – the awakening cannot happen unless we have begun to do the preparatory work for it to happen).
Thus, the hatchings that come to us – and look towards us – are looking for guidance.
In this process of our own awakening – even in the early stages of it – we still are able to serve others. Students come to you – and you serve them – sometimes by a single sentence that you utter, a look you give them, or by a loving touch or adjustment. We share our support with others.
We are in an era of planetary awakening – it is really an extraordinary time..."
Yes...It is!
Friday, May 8, 2009
Evening Came and Morning Followed - The Fifth Day
I am entering the last day of the week long gathering of Anusara Yoga teachers...
Yesterday was an incredible day on so many levels...
One of my first two yoga teachers, Betsey Downing, who co-chairs the Anusara Yoga certification committee, shared with the group that teaching Anusara Yoga is about experiencing an on-going process of personal growth - this coming from a woman who continues to exhibit great studentship.
I thought these were very appropriate comments on Thursday, which is traditionally recognized in Indian tradition as the day of the Guru - or teacher...
One of the things that John Friend always does, is quiz his teachers and students to make sure they know the method of Anusara Yoga thoroughly. The other thing he does is ask teachers to demo a pose and then he often deepens their experience of it. But the pose and person he chooses to do it, are never accidental...
Yesterday, he assisted a woman who has a beautiful practice through Viparita Chakravakrasana - which involves going from a handstand - to a full backbend - back to a handstand and down. You are literally flipping in the sequence of poses. At the end of the morning session, when we were sharing, she noted that though she felt she did not have the energy to do the pose, she trusted John implicitly and knew that somehow she would do it. As she reflected afterwards, she noted that she no longer needed to doubt.
I had also was asked to demo a pose yesterday morning during an incredibly active practice - and it was handstand - or Adho Mukha Vrksasana - in the middle of the room. Many of you who follow this blog know that for many months I could not go upside down. Yet here I was, doing this pose surrounded by many of the best teachers in the world. I came down after holding the pose for quite some time, feeling exhilarated and empowered, and I knew in my heart of hearts it was no accident that he had asked me do this pose since he knew many details of what had transpired in my life the last couple of years and the strides I had made.
Later, I received a number of compliments from my colleagues on the pose - but perhaps the one that moved me the most came from Betsey - who high fived me - and was not only one of my first two teachers and the woman I first did teacher training with - but she was also the person who first gave me a job teaching yoga - when I never thought I would do this...
Everything comes full circle...A true teacher cannot take the seat of the teacher if he - or she is not always a student first!
Yesterday was an incredible day on so many levels...
One of my first two yoga teachers, Betsey Downing, who co-chairs the Anusara Yoga certification committee, shared with the group that teaching Anusara Yoga is about experiencing an on-going process of personal growth - this coming from a woman who continues to exhibit great studentship.
I thought these were very appropriate comments on Thursday, which is traditionally recognized in Indian tradition as the day of the Guru - or teacher...
One of the things that John Friend always does, is quiz his teachers and students to make sure they know the method of Anusara Yoga thoroughly. The other thing he does is ask teachers to demo a pose and then he often deepens their experience of it. But the pose and person he chooses to do it, are never accidental...
Yesterday, he assisted a woman who has a beautiful practice through Viparita Chakravakrasana - which involves going from a handstand - to a full backbend - back to a handstand and down. You are literally flipping in the sequence of poses. At the end of the morning session, when we were sharing, she noted that though she felt she did not have the energy to do the pose, she trusted John implicitly and knew that somehow she would do it. As she reflected afterwards, she noted that she no longer needed to doubt.
I had also was asked to demo a pose yesterday morning during an incredibly active practice - and it was handstand - or Adho Mukha Vrksasana - in the middle of the room. Many of you who follow this blog know that for many months I could not go upside down. Yet here I was, doing this pose surrounded by many of the best teachers in the world. I came down after holding the pose for quite some time, feeling exhilarated and empowered, and I knew in my heart of hearts it was no accident that he had asked me do this pose since he knew many details of what had transpired in my life the last couple of years and the strides I had made.
Later, I received a number of compliments from my colleagues on the pose - but perhaps the one that moved me the most came from Betsey - who high fived me - and was not only one of my first two teachers and the woman I first did teacher training with - but she was also the person who first gave me a job teaching yoga - when I never thought I would do this...
Everything comes full circle...A true teacher cannot take the seat of the teacher if he - or she is not always a student first!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Evening Came and Morning Followed - The Fourth Day
Yesterday was an exquisite day here at the Anusara Yoga gathering in Denver.
Paul Muller Ortega's insights were simply delicious, and as I reviewed my notes last night, I realized that they really focused on the experiences and nuances of a meditation and yoga practice.
Last night I typed up the notes of the day to more deeply imbibe their hidden fruit.
Just a few highlights:
"There is a pulsation of energy that occurs with both rest and relaxation in meditation and yoga practice...
The inbreath and the outbreath are both ceaselessly and constantly engaged in the process of going in and going out. The inbreath and outbreath are our constant companions in life from the moment of our birth until our end. Within this flow we experience the pulsation of consciousness. Shakti is present in the Absolute as the Absolute. (This is one of the fundamental differences between Tantra and Vedanta).
Consciousness is shakti – its fundamental nature is power.
The physical body is the surface membrane of the soul. It’s not that it contains consciousness – it IS consciousness!
As you inhale and you exhale – you are actually floating in the pulsational waves of consciousness itself. We know this – but in the Bhairava Tantra we have a textual anchoring of this knowledge and awareness. In other words, the classical location of this practice and teaching is found here.
Visarga – the sound “HA” – is a sound that is produced during exhalation – but this sound can’t happen without the inhalation – like in “SO HAM.”
This mantra describes simultaneously – a practice and state. In meditation – you come to a point where your inhalation and exhalations rest. Then you have that experience that something is calling you there – to that place of deliciousness – you are absorbed and drawn there.
“SO HAM” is also like “HAM SA.”
In Tantra – the “HA” or “HAM” sound is made on the inhalation – because it is said the inhalation makes this sound. In Vedanta – this is reversed – the “SO” sound comes first.
The pivot point is your individual awareness of this flow of energy.
You are constantly making this mantra sound as you breathe – and then it becomes a practice. You don’t strain to hear this sound – but you allow this subtle sensation to occur and your awareness to ride on it.
The saying of this mantra is linked to the breath – and it is a dharana practice.
Here, we are dealing with skillful entry into an already naturally occurring structure of consciousness – as an efficacious optimization of the flow of consciousness.
That’s why yoga is universal – because the science of the nature of the breath is universal and corresponds to the way nature is already expressing itself.
There is a transmissional way in how these dharana practices are taught and learned.
Swami Muktananda said that meditation itself – taught meditation..."
Paul Muller Ortega's insights were simply delicious, and as I reviewed my notes last night, I realized that they really focused on the experiences and nuances of a meditation and yoga practice.
Last night I typed up the notes of the day to more deeply imbibe their hidden fruit.
Just a few highlights:
"There is a pulsation of energy that occurs with both rest and relaxation in meditation and yoga practice...
The inbreath and the outbreath are both ceaselessly and constantly engaged in the process of going in and going out. The inbreath and outbreath are our constant companions in life from the moment of our birth until our end. Within this flow we experience the pulsation of consciousness. Shakti is present in the Absolute as the Absolute. (This is one of the fundamental differences between Tantra and Vedanta).
Consciousness is shakti – its fundamental nature is power.
The physical body is the surface membrane of the soul. It’s not that it contains consciousness – it IS consciousness!
As you inhale and you exhale – you are actually floating in the pulsational waves of consciousness itself. We know this – but in the Bhairava Tantra we have a textual anchoring of this knowledge and awareness. In other words, the classical location of this practice and teaching is found here.
Visarga – the sound “HA” – is a sound that is produced during exhalation – but this sound can’t happen without the inhalation – like in “SO HAM.”
This mantra describes simultaneously – a practice and state. In meditation – you come to a point where your inhalation and exhalations rest. Then you have that experience that something is calling you there – to that place of deliciousness – you are absorbed and drawn there.
“SO HAM” is also like “HAM SA.”
In Tantra – the “HA” or “HAM” sound is made on the inhalation – because it is said the inhalation makes this sound. In Vedanta – this is reversed – the “SO” sound comes first.
The pivot point is your individual awareness of this flow of energy.
You are constantly making this mantra sound as you breathe – and then it becomes a practice. You don’t strain to hear this sound – but you allow this subtle sensation to occur and your awareness to ride on it.
The saying of this mantra is linked to the breath – and it is a dharana practice.
Here, we are dealing with skillful entry into an already naturally occurring structure of consciousness – as an efficacious optimization of the flow of consciousness.
That’s why yoga is universal – because the science of the nature of the breath is universal and corresponds to the way nature is already expressing itself.
There is a transmissional way in how these dharana practices are taught and learned.
Swami Muktananda said that meditation itself – taught meditation..."
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Evening Came and Morning Followed - The Third Day
I write this rather bleary eyed, since I got to bed at 1 AM last night! The Anusara Yoga community celebrated John Friend's 50th birthday in a beautiful home. Everyone showed up in gorgeous attire. It was fun to see people outside of yoga clothes and to celebrate this incredible event as a community.
The teachings with Paul Muller Ortega continue to be very deep and nuanced. I especially loved the discussion on the meaning of "OM Namah Shivaya" in the Anusara Yoga Invocation yesterday morning, and a discussion on the nature and role of desire from a renunciatory perspective as is described in the Bhagavad Gita, in contrast to the Tantric perspective.
The Gita teaches that our goal is to let go of desire and this is really a renunciatory process. Tantra is the spiritual path of the householder, and renunciatory practices are not really appropriate for someone in this stage of life. Thus, in the Tantric tradition - you refine and purify desire - so that you may be able to let go of the desire that does not serve, and embrace instead, forms of desire that are life enhancing.
Ultimately, desire that is life enhancing and glorifying is a manifestation of Divine energy working through you in all facets of your life...More later if I can!
* * * * *
The morning session just concluded and it consisted of the most exquisite teachings on meditation which brought me a greater sense of clarity as to my path and practice, and much comfort as well. I even had an opportunity to speak directly to Paul Muller Ortega and share some of my practice with him.
I have been struggling for a while with his distinctions between a renunciatory path and that of the householder, and whether I was inappropriately straddling both. But he enabled me to see that I am sort of in between both of these and am more of a forest dweller which is the third of four possible options. In this stage, one has raised one's children and is no longer bound to the same level of responsibilities previously held. Thus, one is able to pursue one's spirituality much more deeply than one had the opportunity to do during the more intense early years of marriage and raising children.
Of course, there was much more to this discussion - but the insights I received crystallized a number of insights for me.
I will share in tomorrow's entry more of today's gems.
The teachings with Paul Muller Ortega continue to be very deep and nuanced. I especially loved the discussion on the meaning of "OM Namah Shivaya" in the Anusara Yoga Invocation yesterday morning, and a discussion on the nature and role of desire from a renunciatory perspective as is described in the Bhagavad Gita, in contrast to the Tantric perspective.
The Gita teaches that our goal is to let go of desire and this is really a renunciatory process. Tantra is the spiritual path of the householder, and renunciatory practices are not really appropriate for someone in this stage of life. Thus, in the Tantric tradition - you refine and purify desire - so that you may be able to let go of the desire that does not serve, and embrace instead, forms of desire that are life enhancing.
Ultimately, desire that is life enhancing and glorifying is a manifestation of Divine energy working through you in all facets of your life...More later if I can!
* * * * *
The morning session just concluded and it consisted of the most exquisite teachings on meditation which brought me a greater sense of clarity as to my path and practice, and much comfort as well. I even had an opportunity to speak directly to Paul Muller Ortega and share some of my practice with him.
I have been struggling for a while with his distinctions between a renunciatory path and that of the householder, and whether I was inappropriately straddling both. But he enabled me to see that I am sort of in between both of these and am more of a forest dweller which is the third of four possible options. In this stage, one has raised one's children and is no longer bound to the same level of responsibilities previously held. Thus, one is able to pursue one's spirituality much more deeply than one had the opportunity to do during the more intense early years of marriage and raising children.
Of course, there was much more to this discussion - but the insights I received crystallized a number of insights for me.
I will share in tomorrow's entry more of today's gems.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Evening Came and Morning Followed - The Second Day
Yesterday was a packed day, ending with a meeting of the Anusara Yoga Curriculum Committee. Consequently, I did not do any updating last night.
The day was filled with exquisite but very sophisticated and nuanced teachings on Tantra - beginning with a historical overview, then an examination of the schools of Tantra that have influenced the philosophical foundations of Anusara Yoga, and finally, ending yesterday with a bird's eye view of the Siva Sutras, a very beautiful Tantric text, which we began studying at our gathering last year.
Paul Muller Ortega is one of the premier Sanskrit scholars and experts on Siva, and he has just finished his own translation and commentary of this text.
The first sutra, or verse of this scripture, in many ways summarizes the text and begins simply, by stating - "Consciousness is the self." In other words, consciousness is always conscious of itself.
One of the atributes of the Divine is that it is supremely aware and conscious of itself and it expresses itself as a power, which is called Shakti. It is this energy that we feel when we move in our practice.
The attributes of the Absolute that yogis and yoginis are most familiar with are those of: Being, Consciousness and Bliss. I could write a whole dissertation on this, but it will have to wait for another time!
I arose early to meditate and ground, and am off to a very full day...
The day was filled with exquisite but very sophisticated and nuanced teachings on Tantra - beginning with a historical overview, then an examination of the schools of Tantra that have influenced the philosophical foundations of Anusara Yoga, and finally, ending yesterday with a bird's eye view of the Siva Sutras, a very beautiful Tantric text, which we began studying at our gathering last year.
Paul Muller Ortega is one of the premier Sanskrit scholars and experts on Siva, and he has just finished his own translation and commentary of this text.
The first sutra, or verse of this scripture, in many ways summarizes the text and begins simply, by stating - "Consciousness is the self." In other words, consciousness is always conscious of itself.
One of the atributes of the Divine is that it is supremely aware and conscious of itself and it expresses itself as a power, which is called Shakti. It is this energy that we feel when we move in our practice.
The attributes of the Absolute that yogis and yoginis are most familiar with are those of: Being, Consciousness and Bliss. I could write a whole dissertation on this, but it will have to wait for another time!
I arose early to meditate and ground, and am off to a very full day...
Monday, May 4, 2009
Evening Came and Morning Followed - The First Day
I feel as though I am going to embark on a week of creation! Hence, the reference to the verse from Genesis in the title of this posting...
I arrived safe and sound to Denver, and slept very well, though I woke up with a pounding headache - which is for me - an effect of the altitude...But, I woke up refreshed and ready for the day, and meditated quietly and deeply, as I dedicated the day to God.
Yesterday I arrived with two wonderful yoginis and we settled in. In the early evening I ran into some yoginis from North Carolina who shared with me that they used some of my poetry to generate reflections during their Anusara Yoga immersion - which is a precursor to the teacher training program. I was both thrilled and touched!
Today will be a very long day - with meetings, updates, and the opportunity to drink in the the poetic sensuality of Paul Muller Ortega. I will try to make updates to this posting, adding some more later, as a moment here or there permits, thus, reporting LIVE! From Denver!
* * * *
The morning session concluded just a short time ago. We delved deep into the nuances of Tantra and much deeper into the teachings under the guidance and exquisite languaging of Paul Muller Ortega. All I can say is, my head has been spinning and I can't wait to transcribe my notes.
It is a privilege and and an honor to be here and to be exposed to all these teachings! Ah!
I arrived safe and sound to Denver, and slept very well, though I woke up with a pounding headache - which is for me - an effect of the altitude...But, I woke up refreshed and ready for the day, and meditated quietly and deeply, as I dedicated the day to God.
Yesterday I arrived with two wonderful yoginis and we settled in. In the early evening I ran into some yoginis from North Carolina who shared with me that they used some of my poetry to generate reflections during their Anusara Yoga immersion - which is a precursor to the teacher training program. I was both thrilled and touched!
Today will be a very long day - with meetings, updates, and the opportunity to drink in the the poetic sensuality of Paul Muller Ortega. I will try to make updates to this posting, adding some more later, as a moment here or there permits, thus, reporting LIVE! From Denver!
* * * *
The morning session concluded just a short time ago. We delved deep into the nuances of Tantra and much deeper into the teachings under the guidance and exquisite languaging of Paul Muller Ortega. All I can say is, my head has been spinning and I can't wait to transcribe my notes.
It is a privilege and and an honor to be here and to be exposed to all these teachings! Ah!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
In the Early Morning
Yes, it seems trite but -
Tomorrow, in the early morning, I shall depart for Denver, for the annual gathering of certified Anusara Yoga teachers. This year, I am mindful of the many meetings I will be attending and am reminding myself to stop, breathe, and remember - as I reminded a dear friend yesterday, to rest in God...Yes, even in the midst of so much busyness and presence...
While I am looking forward to all that this week will bring, I am also a little unsettled, for I do not travel well. It is the process of getting from point A to to point B that can be unnerving, and I find it fascinating that some people travel for a living and actually love it!
Recently, two intuitives that are in my life noted that there will be more travel for me in the future. I received this news with a certain amount of trepidation. Then I thought, whatever will be, will be. God will somehow provide and give me the strength I need to do the work He has envisioned. Somehow, through all of it, all shall be well...
I turned to Mohandas Gandhi's favored collections of prayers, and found these...
In the early morning, I will take flight, and in the clouds, be reminded that I am connected to all, as I commune with Source and express gratitude for all that is, for all that has been, and all that is to come...
"All my bags are packed,
and I'm ready to go..."
and I'm ready to go..."
Tomorrow, in the early morning, I shall depart for Denver, for the annual gathering of certified Anusara Yoga teachers. This year, I am mindful of the many meetings I will be attending and am reminding myself to stop, breathe, and remember - as I reminded a dear friend yesterday, to rest in God...Yes, even in the midst of so much busyness and presence...
While I am looking forward to all that this week will bring, I am also a little unsettled, for I do not travel well. It is the process of getting from point A to to point B that can be unnerving, and I find it fascinating that some people travel for a living and actually love it!
Recently, two intuitives that are in my life noted that there will be more travel for me in the future. I received this news with a certain amount of trepidation. Then I thought, whatever will be, will be. God will somehow provide and give me the strength I need to do the work He has envisioned. Somehow, through all of it, all shall be well...
I turned to Mohandas Gandhi's favored collections of prayers, and found these...
"Early in the morning I call to mind
that being which is felt in the heart
which is sat, chit, and sukham,
the eternal, knowledge, and bliss,
which is the state reached by perfect ones,
and which is the super-state...
In the early morning I worship Him
who is beyond the reach
of thought and speech,
and yet by whose grace all speech is possible.
I worship Him whom the scriptures describe
as neti, neti - not this, not this.
Him, the sages have called
God of gods, the unborn,
the unfallen, the source of all.
In the early morning I bow to Him
who is beyond darkness,
who is like the sun,
who is perfect, ancient...
and in whom, through the veil of darkness,
we fancy the whole universe as appearing..."
that being which is felt in the heart
which is sat, chit, and sukham,
the eternal, knowledge, and bliss,
which is the state reached by perfect ones,
and which is the super-state...
In the early morning I worship Him
who is beyond the reach
of thought and speech,
and yet by whose grace all speech is possible.
I worship Him whom the scriptures describe
as neti, neti - not this, not this.
Him, the sages have called
God of gods, the unborn,
the unfallen, the source of all.
In the early morning I bow to Him
who is beyond darkness,
who is like the sun,
who is perfect, ancient...
and in whom, through the veil of darkness,
we fancy the whole universe as appearing..."
In the early morning, I will take flight, and in the clouds, be reminded that I am connected to all, as I commune with Source and express gratitude for all that is, for all that has been, and all that is to come...
Friday, May 1, 2009
The River in Bloom
It is rainy today. I had hoped to put in some time at the river, but alas, Grace will not enjoy the water possibly, for at least 10 days...
The river is in full bloom - and all is truly verdant. Thus, the river is not so wide as it was during the winter season. It is no longer bare - but instead, teeming with life...
I am packing and cleaning today - getting ready for my trip to Denver and the many gifts and wonderful moments it will surely bring! I am looking forward to seeing people that I will perhaps only see at this time this year - as I will not be able to travel to other Anusara venues...
I chant the Reiki Precepts as I survey the river, taking in all the changes now evident and the explosion of leaves which now block my ability to see far and wide along the riverbanks.
I take a moment to reflect on an article I read yesterday about making commitments by Sally Kempton in the latest issue of Yoga Journal. She observes that "without commitment, life is a free-for-all, relationships a series of hook ups, and practice mere dabbling." But in order to make commitments, we must know what our core values are. By doing so, we discover the meta-commitments which govern our lives. These are vows we make with our own souls...
As I read a list of meta-commitments in the article, I found I resonated with all of them. Can you have so many?
And I would add - to be loyal. It is a quality I have exhibited all my life. Interestingly enough, the current set of readings in Yogananda's Spiritual Diary deals with loyalty.
Loyalty is truly a core virtue for me - and it has informed many of my decisions and actions. When I open and give my heart - it is forever - regardless of what happens. Like Martin Luther, I cannot do otherwise. I know no other way to be. When it comes to relationships in particular, I never give up on them. Even throughout seeming separation, deep hurts, misunderstandings, mis-communication, and the passage of time, my loyalty endures. In my heart of hearts, I believe as the Anonymous Author of The Cloud of Unknowing observed in the 14th century - that:
It is so comforting to know that God does not see my failings first - but sees who I really wanted to be in life and in relationship...
I think, it is because of this, that when I have re-connected with people, even decades later, I am able to pick up where I left off. I know this is a gift and a blessing...
I look forward to all that is unfolding and the many miracles that are constantly offered! And to making more connections in Denver!
The river is in full bloom - and all is truly verdant. Thus, the river is not so wide as it was during the winter season. It is no longer bare - but instead, teeming with life...
I am packing and cleaning today - getting ready for my trip to Denver and the many gifts and wonderful moments it will surely bring! I am looking forward to seeing people that I will perhaps only see at this time this year - as I will not be able to travel to other Anusara venues...
I chant the Reiki Precepts as I survey the river, taking in all the changes now evident and the explosion of leaves which now block my ability to see far and wide along the riverbanks.
I take a moment to reflect on an article I read yesterday about making commitments by Sally Kempton in the latest issue of Yoga Journal. She observes that "without commitment, life is a free-for-all, relationships a series of hook ups, and practice mere dabbling." But in order to make commitments, we must know what our core values are. By doing so, we discover the meta-commitments which govern our lives. These are vows we make with our own souls...
As I read a list of meta-commitments in the article, I found I resonated with all of them. Can you have so many?
To love in all circumstances
To be of service
To make your first priority your ongoing transformation and growth
To find out what is ultimately real
To make community
To make beauty
To be compassionate
To help make the world better
To live as your highest Self
To ensure justice
To be of service
To make your first priority your ongoing transformation and growth
To find out what is ultimately real
To make community
To make beauty
To be compassionate
To help make the world better
To live as your highest Self
To ensure justice
And I would add - to be loyal. It is a quality I have exhibited all my life. Interestingly enough, the current set of readings in Yogananda's Spiritual Diary deals with loyalty.
Loyalty is truly a core virtue for me - and it has informed many of my decisions and actions. When I open and give my heart - it is forever - regardless of what happens. Like Martin Luther, I cannot do otherwise. I know no other way to be. When it comes to relationships in particular, I never give up on them. Even throughout seeming separation, deep hurts, misunderstandings, mis-communication, and the passage of time, my loyalty endures. In my heart of hearts, I believe as the Anonymous Author of The Cloud of Unknowing observed in the 14th century - that:
"God sees with His all powerful eyes -
not who we are,
but who we strive to be."
not who we are,
but who we strive to be."
It is so comforting to know that God does not see my failings first - but sees who I really wanted to be in life and in relationship...
I think, it is because of this, that when I have re-connected with people, even decades later, I am able to pick up where I left off. I know this is a gift and a blessing...
I look forward to all that is unfolding and the many miracles that are constantly offered! And to making more connections in Denver!
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