Every human being has within his or her experience certain shadow sides, dark corners of their existence, voids and places that are frightening. In Winter, these parts of ourselves are reflected by the barren trees, the dark nights, and the veil of clouds that hide the bright sun.
What most human beings don't realize is the incredible opportunity that is given by these experiences. As we get accustomed to the long nights, the cold air, and the rain, we are given the gift of time and space to look deeply and honestly at the shadows and dark corners.
The amazing gift of darkness is that darkness is not darkness. Darkness contains within it brilliant, radiant light. Some traditions have called this darkness the Void, Emptiness, or the Dazzling Darkness. And, it is only by embracing the darkness, the fear, the despair that we come to see the hidden secret inside the total dark.
For thousands of years, humans have celebrated this time of year, this winter solstice, with the exquisite embrace of darkness, and in celebration an unveiling of the Light that cannot be hidden even by the darkest night.
Nearly every spiritual and religious culture has some deeper understanding of the nature of darkness. In mystical cultures such as those found in Islam, Christianity, Hinduism and Buddhism there is deep significance to the power and sublime symbolism found in the dazzling darkness. In the Sufi tradition, Layla represents the divine feminine, embodied as darkness and with a magnetic pull of divine Love. In Hinduism, Krishna is described as the 'dark lord' whose quality is also that of the irresistible draw of divine love. In the Tibetan Book of the Dead, practitioners are instructed to enter into the darkness to discover the ultimate dimension of being. And one of the most beautiful expressions is represented by Christmas, where we acknowledge the indestructible Light that stands amidst the darkest, most barren hours. The dazzling darkness is where we find the profound opportunity to enter into the silent solitary depths of our being to discover radiant light. The gift of darkness, is ironically, the gift of Light.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Green Karma Wisdom Energy
Like all the other aspects of wisdom energy, karma energy has two ways of appearing in our lives. This energy can appear through dysfunction and ego-consciousness, or it can appear as an aspect of wisdom.
When karma energy appears as egoic dsyfunction it arises as a constant state of doing, which comes with feelings of jealousy, competition, and comparison. This dysfunction is fueled by a deep fear of failure. The drive for success and accomplishment gives rise to an anxiety, aggression, and speed that keep one from truly being.
As karma energy is transmuted into wisdom, it embodies all-accomplishing action, which is able to act with love, generosity, and ease. We see that the aggression and speed that are apart of egoic consciousness are unnecessary, and a true lightness develops as we act with spontaneity and aliveness. The simple shift from ‘doing’ to ‘being’ has a sublime way of acting in this world with intelligence and peace.
We bring our attention to transmuting karma energy from its dysfunctional focus on competition and the fear of failure, into its wisdom aspect which brings our attention to being, accomplishing all with the ease and perfection of our true nature.
When karma energy appears as egoic dsyfunction it arises as a constant state of doing, which comes with feelings of jealousy, competition, and comparison. This dysfunction is fueled by a deep fear of failure. The drive for success and accomplishment gives rise to an anxiety, aggression, and speed that keep one from truly being.
As karma energy is transmuted into wisdom, it embodies all-accomplishing action, which is able to act with love, generosity, and ease. We see that the aggression and speed that are apart of egoic consciousness are unnecessary, and a true lightness develops as we act with spontaneity and aliveness. The simple shift from ‘doing’ to ‘being’ has a sublime way of acting in this world with intelligence and peace.
We bring our attention to transmuting karma energy from its dysfunctional focus on competition and the fear of failure, into its wisdom aspect which brings our attention to being, accomplishing all with the ease and perfection of our true nature.
Vajra Wisdom Energy
We will conclude our focus on the wisdom energies that are represented by the tibetan prayer flags. This month we will be visitng vajra, which is represented by the blue flag and the element water. When vajra energy is distorted through the lens of ego, it comes across as sharp, intellectual, and bitingly critical. It is cold and aloof within the world of concepts and skepticism. When vajra is in its awakened conscious form it represents clarity and what is known as 'mirror-like wisdom'.
Vajra sees things as they are, rather than seeing things with ego, which makes us opinionated, judgmental, and sarcastic. The challenge for vajra types is to pierce through the fear of intimacy and embody tenderness through being vulnerable and open. The movement from the reasoning, intellectual doubter in the head to the clear sighted, vulnerable warrior of the heart is the transmutation of vajra from neurosis to sanity. The challenge is, as always, to stop living life from the head, and to live life fully from the heart.
Vajra sees things as they are, rather than seeing things with ego, which makes us opinionated, judgmental, and sarcastic. The challenge for vajra types is to pierce through the fear of intimacy and embody tenderness through being vulnerable and open. The movement from the reasoning, intellectual doubter in the head to the clear sighted, vulnerable warrior of the heart is the transmutation of vajra from neurosis to sanity. The challenge is, as always, to stop living life from the head, and to live life fully from the heart.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
July: White 'Buddha' Wisdom Energy
Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. The White flag is represented by the turning of the wheel of the dharma (truth). The white wisdom energy stands in the center of the wheel, and it is from there that the four directions move.
White buddha energy is expressed as the sense of sight and, physically, as the heart. Its sacred syllable is Om and it represents the element air or clouds. Most importantly, white wisdom energy represents all encompassing wisdom that overcomes delusion, or the quality of ignorance.
In the Tibetan tantric teachings we are, at our core, fundamentally sane, wise, and compassionate beings. The reason humans experience so much aggression, fear, and delusion is our ignorance of what we truly are. As we simply transmute our ignorance into sanity, all encompassing wisdom begins to reveal itself. This wisdom see things as they truly are, and seeks to relate to life in a way that is peaceful rather than aggressive, fully rather than partially, and selflessly rather than 'me'-centered.
Asana: Wheel & other heart openers
Mantra: Om
Special Techniques: drishti, focus, sight, tratak meditation, yoga for the eyes
Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. The White flag is represented by the turning of the wheel of the dharma (truth). The white wisdom energy stands in the center of the wheel, and it is from there that the four directions move.
White buddha energy is expressed as the sense of sight and, physically, as the heart. Its sacred syllable is Om and it represents the element air or clouds. Most importantly, white wisdom energy represents all encompassing wisdom that overcomes delusion, or the quality of ignorance.
In the Tibetan tantric teachings we are, at our core, fundamentally sane, wise, and compassionate beings. The reason humans experience so much aggression, fear, and delusion is our ignorance of what we truly are. As we simply transmute our ignorance into sanity, all encompassing wisdom begins to reveal itself. This wisdom see things as they truly are, and seeks to relate to life in a way that is peaceful rather than aggressive, fully rather than partially, and selflessly rather than 'me'-centered.
Asana: Wheel & other heart openers
Mantra: Om
Special Techniques: drishti, focus, sight, tratak meditation, yoga for the eyes
September: Ratna Energy
You have probably seen prayer flags hanging, but have you ever contemplated their deeper meaning? We continue our exploration of each of the five classical prayer flags - their colors and deeper meanings - as our monthly themes. Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. Each prayer flag represented a different aspect of our unique and inherent wisdom energies.
Ratna energy is the wisdom of the Earth and is represented by a jewel and the color gold. It points to the aspect of our being that is rich, full, and abundant. Many people, in an attempt to find richness and abundance in life, chase after things, experiences, people, and status to feel full. But this attempt is like continually feeding and never feeling full. The opportunity we have to transmute this energy in our lives is to see that we are already full, and that the constant attempt to add more more more to our lives depletes our system and leaves us feeling deadened. Ratna energy is one of abundance, where the fear of not having enough, being enough, or being special enough is seen clearly and fully. From this seeing comes the recognition that the attempt to 'have enough' is a constant experience of failing....but to begin to see that what is within is already enough removes the greed and pride of endless acquiring, holding, chasing. Ratna jewel energy in its confused aspect tends to overindulge in pleasure, seeking to make oneself as comfortable as possible in every circumstance. In it's deepest energetic experience, this wisdom energy becomes equanimity, contentment, and gratitude for what one has, and what one is. As this unfolds, the jewel-like nature of our being begins to emmanate a richness, a fullness, that is so profound. An ability to appreciate life simply and completely just as it is.
Tantric Wisdom Energies
From the Tantric Yoga point of view life is an expression of various energies, some pleasant, some unpleasant---yet, all experiences are seen as pure energy. From the Tantric viewpoint, life is a constant dance of shifting energies ~ the energy of emotions, thoughts, feelings, body, and even various states of consciousness. Seeing these energies as neither good nor bad, neither right nor wrong, neither enlightened nor unenlightened, frees them up to dance with the stuff of life. We can begin to relate to the energy of emotions, anger, hurt, sadness, and confusion in a way that is sane, welcoming, and compassionate. If we are at war with ourselves, we only produce more insanity, more violence. Understanding the wisdom energies can be a powerful opportunity to cultivate the brilliant qualities of wisdom and compassion, and begin to view life as sacred rather than a tumultuous mess. Relating to the energy of life, rather than ideas about life, is a powerful exchange and alchemy. It means unlearning ourselves, and seeing things in their true light.
These wisdom energies are represented in the symbols and the 5 colors of the Tibetan Prayer Flags. We explored the white energy of buddha wisdom in July. Last month, we explored fiery, passionate, red padma lotus energy. In September, we explore yellow, or ratna energy.
From the Tantric Yoga point of view life is an expression of various energies, some pleasant, some unpleasant---yet, all experiences are seen as pure energy. From the Tantric viewpoint, life is a constant dance of shifting energies ~ the energy of emotions, thoughts, feelings, body, and even various states of consciousness. Seeing these energies as neither good nor bad, neither right nor wrong, neither enlightened nor unenlightened, frees them up to dance with the stuff of life. We can begin to relate to the energy of emotions, anger, hurt, sadness, and confusion in a way that is sane, welcoming, and compassionate. If we are at war with ourselves, we only produce more insanity, more violence. Understanding the wisdom energies can be a powerful opportunity to cultivate the brilliant qualities of wisdom and compassion, and begin to view life as sacred rather than a tumultuous mess. Relating to the energy of life, rather than ideas about life, is a powerful exchange and alchemy. It means unlearning ourselves, and seeing things in their true light.
These wisdom energies are represented in the symbols and the 5 colors of the Tibetan Prayer Flags. We explored the white energy of buddha wisdom in July. Last month, we explored fiery, passionate, red padma lotus energy. In September, we explore yellow, or ratna energy.
August: The Red Wisdom
Energy
You have probably seen prayer flags hanging, but have you ever contemplated their deeper meaning? Over the next several months, we will be exploring each of the five classical prayer flags - their colors and deeper meanings - as our monthly themes. Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. Each prayer flag represented a different aspect of our unique and inherent wisdom energies.
Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. The Red flag is represented by the lotus flower (padma) and sits at the western side of the mandala of being. The element associated with the red flag is fire.
This month we explore Red and Lotus (padma) energy. The Red flag is symbolic of the lotus flower and sits at the western side of the mandala of being. The element associated with the red flag is fire.
Red padma energy is connected with passion, magnetizing, and the fire of living fully. For most of us, we were not taught they we are inherently good enough exactly as we are. We were taught to somehow be good enough we need to achieve something.
For this reason, we are mostly driven by a deeper insecurity that we may not even be aware of. In some cases, this becomes manifested as an addiction to intensity or sensuality. The addiction to intensity can show up as overindulging, thrill seeking, seduction, and fascination with something in the future or trying to recreate a past experience. Passion with something other than what is here and now.
As we connect to a wiser energy of passion, we exude a fire and brilliance that is attracting, powerful, and unconditional. This leads to a natural experience of the fullness of life, and eliminates the unconscious drive to try to 'fix' the feelings of insecurity through seeking pleasures, temporary thrills, and instant gratifications. A self-existing wisdom of discriminating awareness deepens and we begin to see ourselves, our passion, and others from the standpoint of selflessness. We see life and the fire of this human existence as an alive fiery presence that sees the real from the unreal, darkness from light, and bliss from suffering.
You have probably seen prayer flags hanging, but have you ever contemplated their deeper meaning? Over the next several months, we will be exploring each of the five classical prayer flags - their colors and deeper meanings - as our monthly themes. Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. Each prayer flag represented a different aspect of our unique and inherent wisdom energies.
Prayer Flags not only offer prayers that travel the wind, they each have very deep and rich meaning that points to different aspects of one's true nature. The Red flag is represented by the lotus flower (padma) and sits at the western side of the mandala of being. The element associated with the red flag is fire.
This month we explore Red and Lotus (padma) energy. The Red flag is symbolic of the lotus flower and sits at the western side of the mandala of being. The element associated with the red flag is fire.
Red padma energy is connected with passion, magnetizing, and the fire of living fully. For most of us, we were not taught they we are inherently good enough exactly as we are. We were taught to somehow be good enough we need to achieve something.
For this reason, we are mostly driven by a deeper insecurity that we may not even be aware of. In some cases, this becomes manifested as an addiction to intensity or sensuality. The addiction to intensity can show up as overindulging, thrill seeking, seduction, and fascination with something in the future or trying to recreate a past experience. Passion with something other than what is here and now.
As we connect to a wiser energy of passion, we exude a fire and brilliance that is attracting, powerful, and unconditional. This leads to a natural experience of the fullness of life, and eliminates the unconscious drive to try to 'fix' the feelings of insecurity through seeking pleasures, temporary thrills, and instant gratifications. A self-existing wisdom of discriminating awareness deepens and we begin to see ourselves, our passion, and others from the standpoint of selflessness. We see life and the fire of this human existence as an alive fiery presence that sees the real from the unreal, darkness from light, and bliss from suffering.
| The History of Prayer
Flags
You have probably seen prayer flags hanging, but have you ever contemplated their deeper meaning? Over the next several months, we will be exploring each of the five classical prayer flags - their colors and deeper meanings - as our monthly themes. The tradition of hanging flags began more than 2000 years ago. At that time Tibet was ruled by war lords who carried their banners into battles. The native people, however, made their own flags to honor the nature gods. They used colors of the five elements: blue for sky or space; white for air or clouds; red for fire; green for water and yellow for earth. They hung the flags over mountain passes and rivers to benefit all who would pass underneath. Every time you look at the flags, let them remind you to continue to send out your own prayers for world peace, kindness and generosity. As you do so, you will also benefit from their blessings. Thousands of Tibetans, including the 14th Dalai Lama, have had to flee from their country and live in exile around the world. Their Prayer Flags continue to represent the tradition of sending out prayers, but they also remind us of a nation of gentle people who have been robbed of their home. Prayer flags are still stamped with prayers and hung to let the wind carry their messages in Tibetan refugee villages. Most of the Tibetan Prayer Flags we see today are made in those communities. And so, people around the world have adopted the custom of hanging Prayer Flags to commemorate special events and to transmit their blessings. It has been suggested by contemporary Tibetans that we create our own prayer flags by imprinting them with poems, prayers and symbols from the great faiths of the world in hopes of uniting them in a spirit of peace and harmony. We are now selling prayer flags at Flow made by Tibetans living in Nepal. We offer a few different types: Blank~ to create your own Windhorse~ representing unshakable trust in your self and life Guru Rinpoche~ the 'second buddha', the great master Padmasambhava who brought buddhism to Tibet Medicine Buddha~the embodiment of the medicine that ends suffering and awakens wisdom and compassion |
Summer Solstice
SUMMER: THE SEASON OF THE VISIONARY
As we sit on the verge of one of the most powerful times of the year, the summer solstice, we rest in the Eastern glow of the rising Sun. The rising Sun represents the birth of Spirit in the flesh, the birth of intuition, and it is symbolized by the Visionary. The Visionary seeks to live an authentic, fearless, wise existence marked with authenticity, truth, and deep compassion. The Visionary faces east, toward the light of Being, and extends her hands out to embrace others, and give of his endless abundance. The element of Summer is fire, which represents the immense inner fire of courage, discipline, and love that the Visionary is informed by and seeks to embody. We celebrate the Solstice, and the rising of the Eastern Sun, by embracing challenges and inner fire with openness and tenderness. Giving birth to the Visionary within ourselves, we turn to the East, bow at dawn, and smile...knowing that all the power of the Sun is within.
SUMMER: THE SEASON OF THE VISIONARY
As we sit on the verge of one of the most powerful times of the year, the summer solstice, we rest in the Eastern glow of the rising Sun. The rising Sun represents the birth of Spirit in the flesh, the birth of intuition, and it is symbolized by the Visionary. The Visionary seeks to live an authentic, fearless, wise existence marked with authenticity, truth, and deep compassion. The Visionary faces east, toward the light of Being, and extends her hands out to embrace others, and give of his endless abundance. The element of Summer is fire, which represents the immense inner fire of courage, discipline, and love that the Visionary is informed by and seeks to embody. We celebrate the Solstice, and the rising of the Eastern Sun, by embracing challenges and inner fire with openness and tenderness. Giving birth to the Visionary within ourselves, we turn to the East, bow at dawn, and smile...knowing that all the power of the Sun is within.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Friendliness toward the joyful
The Four Qualities of the Heart
The practice of the four brahmavihara are essential to truly breaking down the perceived barriers between self and other:
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Celebrating the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
As householder yogis, these four attitudes can be most useful. If you go off and live in a cave, there is less opportunity for testing your spiritual fitness in the presence of others. Most of us live real lives with all sorts of people and relationships that test us. Taking our Yoga off the mat and into the real world, can be a very powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. When we practice these four brahmavihara we can cease what I like to call the “spiraling” of emotions and mental unrest that comes from unresolved or unsettled relationships.
August Monthly Theme: Friendliness toward the joyful – it is easier to start with this one to gain the confidence we need to live more compassionately toward all.
"The first brahmavihara is perhaps the easiest, and that is simply to extend our friendship toward people who are already pleasantly disposed toward us. We can do this in very real terms--by extending assistance and support to friends when they need us and by availing ourselves of the same support. Without being indiscriminate, we can assume friendliness toward others in our daily interactions and by doing so wear away at the thickness of our skin. Clearly, it is easier to be friendly with someone who likes us or someone we admire, so by starting with an easy practice we gain confidence in our ability to live compassionately." ~ Donna Fahri
We'd love to hear from you about your experience, practice or wisdom regarding the first of these four qualities. Today, practice kindness and friendship toward someone you like or admire. This first step toward living a life of true compassion is an important one to practice. It helps us with the more difficult ones.
The practice of the four brahmavihara are essential to truly breaking down the perceived barriers between self and other:
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Celebrating the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
As householder yogis, these four attitudes can be most useful. If you go off and live in a cave, there is less opportunity for testing your spiritual fitness in the presence of others. Most of us live real lives with all sorts of people and relationships that test us. Taking our Yoga off the mat and into the real world, can be a very powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. When we practice these four brahmavihara we can cease what I like to call the “spiraling” of emotions and mental unrest that comes from unresolved or unsettled relationships.
August Monthly Theme: Friendliness toward the joyful – it is easier to start with this one to gain the confidence we need to live more compassionately toward all.
"The first brahmavihara is perhaps the easiest, and that is simply to extend our friendship toward people who are already pleasantly disposed toward us. We can do this in very real terms--by extending assistance and support to friends when they need us and by availing ourselves of the same support. Without being indiscriminate, we can assume friendliness toward others in our daily interactions and by doing so wear away at the thickness of our skin. Clearly, it is easier to be friendly with someone who likes us or someone we admire, so by starting with an easy practice we gain confidence in our ability to live compassionately." ~ Donna Fahri
We'd love to hear from you about your experience, practice or wisdom regarding the first of these four qualities. Today, practice kindness and friendship toward someone you like or admire. This first step toward living a life of true compassion is an important one to practice. It helps us with the more difficult ones.
The Four Qualities of the Heart
The practice of the four brahmavihara are essential to truly breaking down the perceived barriers between self and other:
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Celebrating the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
September Theme: Compassion for those who are suffering – At first glance, this may seem easy, but compassion and empathy are different than pity. Many of us are distanced from real suffering, so may pity those who are suffering and believe this pity to be compassion or understanding. We may even further distance ourselves and see these people as invisible.
How can we develop true compassion without being overwhelmed by it? We can start with what feels most real to us. Your greatest suffering can be turned into your greatest gift for developing empathy toward others. Where have you suffered in your life? The greatest gift Yoga has given to me is to learn that everyone has a story, and that most of us have been doing our best to survive or thrive based on our stories or assumed identities in the best way we know how.
Judgment is a way to distance ourselves from someone else's suffering by essentially blaming them for it. In doing this, we create the illusion that this perceived distance somehow protects US from the possibility of suffering. We create this illusory protective bubble of false happiness. Really, we are all connected, we can not truly separate ourselves. This false protective bubble is a tightly controlled field of "happiness" that is not true joy.
We all have suffering and joy in our lives. There is universal suffering and universal joy, and if we can see ourselves as part of something bigger, and begin to see everyone as some small part of ourselves, we can begin to develop more compassion and understanding and less pity, guilt, and judgment.
We'd love to hear from you about your experience, practice or wisdom related to how you experience true compassion without pity or guilt. Go to the Flow Yoga Facebook page, become a "Friend", and share your experience about practicing this month's brahmavihara: www.facebook.com/home.php
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Celebrating the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
September Theme: Compassion for those who are suffering – At first glance, this may seem easy, but compassion and empathy are different than pity. Many of us are distanced from real suffering, so may pity those who are suffering and believe this pity to be compassion or understanding. We may even further distance ourselves and see these people as invisible.
How can we develop true compassion without being overwhelmed by it? We can start with what feels most real to us. Your greatest suffering can be turned into your greatest gift for developing empathy toward others. Where have you suffered in your life? The greatest gift Yoga has given to me is to learn that everyone has a story, and that most of us have been doing our best to survive or thrive based on our stories or assumed identities in the best way we know how.
Judgment is a way to distance ourselves from someone else's suffering by essentially blaming them for it. In doing this, we create the illusion that this perceived distance somehow protects US from the possibility of suffering. We create this illusory protective bubble of false happiness. Really, we are all connected, we can not truly separate ourselves. This false protective bubble is a tightly controlled field of "happiness" that is not true joy.
We all have suffering and joy in our lives. There is universal suffering and universal joy, and if we can see ourselves as part of something bigger, and begin to see everyone as some small part of ourselves, we can begin to develop more compassion and understanding and less pity, guilt, and judgment.
We'd love to hear from you about your experience, practice or wisdom related to how you experience true compassion without pity or guilt. Go to the Flow Yoga Facebook page, become a "Friend", and share your experience about practicing this month's brahmavihara: www.facebook.com/home.php
Honoring the Good
The practice of the four brahmavihara are essential to truly breaking down the perceived barriers between self and other:
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Honoring the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
Mudita Punya ~ Honoring the Good in Others
Mudita=delight punya=virtuous The third quality, or brahmavihara, is "delight in the virtuous".
Of the four supreme attitudes (or, ways in which we live as our truest nature) the honoring of the basic goodness of others is essential to freedom and happiness. In some relationships or interactions, we may make the mistake of believing that our fears and insecurities are actually true, and in so doing, miss Reality. We can believe that another is somehow better than ourselves, and feel envious of them or intimdated by them. In turn, we miss that we are actually One, and by any judgment or evaluation of other, we only come to the illusion of suffering and separation.
By acknowledging the basic goodness of ourselves and others, we come to interactions and relationships from a place that is grounded in Reality. This is not to say that every interaction is going to be pleasant or nourishing to us, it is just to say that seeing life in terms of basic goodness puts us in a proper relationship with things as they are.
There is an enormous love and freedom that arises when we cease to view ourselves and others in terms of 'what's wrong' and begin to view things as being rooted in essential Good.
It isn't even necessary to believe in this goodness, simply by allowing the possibility to see it we will begin to see inherent goodness everywhere...we will cease comparing ourselves to others and celebrate our diverse goodness.
May we see each other for the Basic Goodness that we ARE~
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Honoring the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
Mudita Punya ~ Honoring the Good in Others
Mudita=delight punya=virtuous The third quality, or brahmavihara, is "delight in the virtuous".
Of the four supreme attitudes (or, ways in which we live as our truest nature) the honoring of the basic goodness of others is essential to freedom and happiness. In some relationships or interactions, we may make the mistake of believing that our fears and insecurities are actually true, and in so doing, miss Reality. We can believe that another is somehow better than ourselves, and feel envious of them or intimdated by them. In turn, we miss that we are actually One, and by any judgment or evaluation of other, we only come to the illusion of suffering and separation.
By acknowledging the basic goodness of ourselves and others, we come to interactions and relationships from a place that is grounded in Reality. This is not to say that every interaction is going to be pleasant or nourishing to us, it is just to say that seeing life in terms of basic goodness puts us in a proper relationship with things as they are.
There is an enormous love and freedom that arises when we cease to view ourselves and others in terms of 'what's wrong' and begin to view things as being rooted in essential Good.
It isn't even necessary to believe in this goodness, simply by allowing the possibility to see it we will begin to see inherent goodness everywhere...we will cease comparing ourselves to others and celebrate our diverse goodness.
May we see each other for the Basic Goodness that we ARE~
Detachment & Indifference
Indifference Toward the Imperfections of Others
The practice of the four brahmavihara are essential to truly breaking down the perceived barriers between self and other:
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Honoring the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
Practicing detachment or indifference toward those who have harmed us or others in word or deed is the most difficult of all the brahmavihara. However, it is important practice for true peace. The time and energy that goes into creating enemy energy is completely not worthwhile. The negative energy we put into any feeling of hate will never serve us.
If we get still and very quiet for enough time, listening deeply, we will get a signal to turn our attention away from it. The ego tries to get us into creating enemy relationships so we can analyze and judge someone else so that we can feel “right” and better about who we are. At a much deeper level, if we really listen without internal chatter, we know this never works. It never feels quite right. We even try to get others involved in our “fight” and feel more justified in our behavior by the involvement of others. Or, instead, some of us become attached to the idea of becoming a victim to someone else’s bad behavior. Of course, this is disempowering, and not useful.
This takes Tapas, or fire. It can feel like burning to soften, and find the humility and strength to forgive. To let go of the ego's need to be right or justified in battle, initially, burns like fire. It means taking responsibility for our own peace without involving anyone else. It means realizing that truly, deeply, that which bothers us the most about someone else, may be a pattern of our own ego being reflected back to us.
If truly necessary for our overall health, we can remove our selves from a relationship and/or set discriminate and healthy boundaries while letting go of all the emotions and energy of attachment to that person.
I see this as a two-part realization. First, putting down the sword, or the shield, whichever fictitious weapon one has created in this illusory battle of the ego. Second, forgiving ourselves and the other to truly get past the anger, resentment, hurt, or any other feeling that arose. For the battle was never real anyway, even though our ego got so involved in the drama, the battle, the story...the Truth is that we can not harm anyone else without harming ourselves. There is no separation, only the projection of separation the ego creates.
Here are some great quotes by Mahatma Gandhi, a great teacher and example on this matter:
In fire and Love,
Stephanie
The practice of the four brahmavihara are essential to truly breaking down the perceived barriers between self and other:
1) Friendliness toward the joyful - August
2) Compassion for those who are suffering - Sept
3) Honoring the good in others - Oct
4) Remaining impartial to the faults & imperfections of others - Nov
(yoga sutra 1.33)
Practicing detachment or indifference toward those who have harmed us or others in word or deed is the most difficult of all the brahmavihara. However, it is important practice for true peace. The time and energy that goes into creating enemy energy is completely not worthwhile. The negative energy we put into any feeling of hate will never serve us.
If we get still and very quiet for enough time, listening deeply, we will get a signal to turn our attention away from it. The ego tries to get us into creating enemy relationships so we can analyze and judge someone else so that we can feel “right” and better about who we are. At a much deeper level, if we really listen without internal chatter, we know this never works. It never feels quite right. We even try to get others involved in our “fight” and feel more justified in our behavior by the involvement of others. Or, instead, some of us become attached to the idea of becoming a victim to someone else’s bad behavior. Of course, this is disempowering, and not useful.
This takes Tapas, or fire. It can feel like burning to soften, and find the humility and strength to forgive. To let go of the ego's need to be right or justified in battle, initially, burns like fire. It means taking responsibility for our own peace without involving anyone else. It means realizing that truly, deeply, that which bothers us the most about someone else, may be a pattern of our own ego being reflected back to us.
If truly necessary for our overall health, we can remove our selves from a relationship and/or set discriminate and healthy boundaries while letting go of all the emotions and energy of attachment to that person.
I see this as a two-part realization. First, putting down the sword, or the shield, whichever fictitious weapon one has created in this illusory battle of the ego. Second, forgiving ourselves and the other to truly get past the anger, resentment, hurt, or any other feeling that arose. For the battle was never real anyway, even though our ego got so involved in the drama, the battle, the story...the Truth is that we can not harm anyone else without harming ourselves. There is no separation, only the projection of separation the ego creates.
Here are some great quotes by Mahatma Gandhi, a great teacher and example on this matter:
- Hate the sin, love the sinner.
- I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.
- In the attitude of silence the soul finds the path in a clearer light, and what is elusive and deceptive resolves itself into crystal clearness. Our life is a long and arduous quest after Truth.
- The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.
- When I despair, I remember that all through history the ways of truth and love have always won. There have been tyrants, and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end they always fall. Think of it--always.
- You must be the change you want to see in the world.
- You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.
In fire and Love,
Stephanie
Stillness, Darkness & Illumination
Today is the darkest day of the year. Since the beginning of times, we have celebrated this darkest time of the year. In the natural darkness, it is time for stillness and illumination. To come "indoors" for quiet times and reflective moments, balanced with inner light, illumination, and celebration. Winter is the time for hibernation, incubation, reflection, rejuvenation, contemplation, and completion in preparation for the new. Here is a poem Sybil wrote in celebration for this time of year: My body still and wise I trust The design so well thought , the love poured in and the life well lived My body still and wise I trust My age and my movement brings me deeper into questions and seeking My body still and wise I trust What I can imagine and see of the perfection has never dwindled in me My body still and wise I trust It is all possible for me and therefore true for you My body still and wise I trust Higher self and limitless love I exude My body still and wise I trust Guide me through this discomfort and still my doing so I can hear exactly what to be I align myself with truth I trust in the stillness and now I know where and how I am meant to be Happy Holidays and Winter Solstice. | |  |
Pushti ~ Grace
Its January, if setting goals this year, perhaps, consider a different approach. Allow space for deep awareness. Do you set a similar goal each year, deeply fearful that you dont really know how to change, or not really wanting the change that you think you should want?
True transformation, in itself, does not come from effort, but from Grace. Pushti, or grace, is the path of doing the work, without regard to the fruits of our actions. This is a karmic practice. It is creating space for whatever practice brings you deeper awareness of all that you are, and all that you are not. Allowing, accepting, admitting, and deeply loving yourself and others while trusting in the deeper wisdom of the universe. In this way, we experience, santosha, contentment within the entire experience of life. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Being grateful for the joys and the sorrows, realizing that they both enrich our experience and teach us so much. From this deep awareness, eventually we find loving acceptance, and the grace of contentment.
So, as we move from the inspiration of a new year, moving from dark to light, from old to new, this year, we do so with just a little more awareness. Perhaps, take your proposed "goal" and sit with it in silence and notice what comes up for you. Is there a feeling of lightness and fulfillment, or is there a sense of dread, fear, shame, or resistance?
If a sense of lightness, than it is probably in line with your true nature and a realistic empowered intention...you have done the work and are naturally ready for the grace of transformation. In this case, there will be little you have to "do", will require little effort, and will feel natural and light.
If there is fear, there is more awareness and loving acceptance to be learned and processed, from a psychological and/or spiritual place. Where is the fear coming from, if it is present? This practice is not a quick fix, but with the continued openness that comes from really paying attention in a loving way, eventually, it will come. Continuing your yoga practice, meditation, satsang privately with a teacher, or within your sangha/community, communing with nature, or any other practice that brings you still moments, deep reflections, or realizations that create space for awareness, will pave your way.
The difference between a goal and an intention is that an intention carries a different energy with it. It is more present. It is in line with our true nature and is realistic for us, in this moment. There is not a fear of failure or a sense that we are not already whole, but, instead, an empowered sense of strength and inspiration. It is not far out in the future, but Here Now.
True transformation, in itself, does not come from effort, but from Grace. Pushti, or grace, is the path of doing the work, without regard to the fruits of our actions. This is a karmic practice. It is creating space for whatever practice brings you deeper awareness of all that you are, and all that you are not. Allowing, accepting, admitting, and deeply loving yourself and others while trusting in the deeper wisdom of the universe. In this way, we experience, santosha, contentment within the entire experience of life. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Being grateful for the joys and the sorrows, realizing that they both enrich our experience and teach us so much. From this deep awareness, eventually we find loving acceptance, and the grace of contentment.
So, as we move from the inspiration of a new year, moving from dark to light, from old to new, this year, we do so with just a little more awareness. Perhaps, take your proposed "goal" and sit with it in silence and notice what comes up for you. Is there a feeling of lightness and fulfillment, or is there a sense of dread, fear, shame, or resistance?
If a sense of lightness, than it is probably in line with your true nature and a realistic empowered intention...you have done the work and are naturally ready for the grace of transformation. In this case, there will be little you have to "do", will require little effort, and will feel natural and light.
If there is fear, there is more awareness and loving acceptance to be learned and processed, from a psychological and/or spiritual place. Where is the fear coming from, if it is present? This practice is not a quick fix, but with the continued openness that comes from really paying attention in a loving way, eventually, it will come. Continuing your yoga practice, meditation, satsang privately with a teacher, or within your sangha/community, communing with nature, or any other practice that brings you still moments, deep reflections, or realizations that create space for awareness, will pave your way.
The difference between a goal and an intention is that an intention carries a different energy with it. It is more present. It is in line with our true nature and is realistic for us, in this moment. There is not a fear of failure or a sense that we are not already whole, but, instead, an empowered sense of strength and inspiration. It is not far out in the future, but Here Now.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Koshas & Purifying
In the yogic teachings, our human experience consists of five koshas. Kosha is a Sanskrit word meaning sheath or layer. From this particular teaching, we are able to examine our experience in five different ways, to get to know ourselves, our bodies, our minds, and our experience in a deeper way. This month we'll be focusing on purifying the five layers of our being, and developing deeper insight into the forces that contribute to our overall health, clarity, and well-being. The Koshas are:
*Annamaya Kosha~(anna means food) this kosha refers to the gross physical body composed of the five elements
*Pranamaya Kosha~(prana means vital energy) and refers to our psycho-physical being on an energetic or electrical level
*Manomaya Kosha~(manas means mind) and refers to the level of our being that is conscious thought, involving reason and logic
*Jnanamaya Kosha~(jnana means intelligence) and refers to our ability to discern truth from untruth, and comprehend the subtle knowledge of experience
*Anandamaya Kosha~(ananda means bliss) and refers to the part of our being that experience divine love and ecstatic joy
This month, as we explore the various layers of our experience we can focus on purifying on all levels to cultivate a human experience that is based on true love, wisdom, and peace. As Sybil puts it, "It is the softening and inter-webbing of all 5 koshas that allows us to know the truth, the intuition of each of us, the heart of each of us (the mana, prana and the anna of each of us) to know what is conditioned in ego and what is unconditioned and pure. It is the way of the heart, belly and root softening, and communicating so that truth rises up so strong and clear, without doubt or second guessing."
So, we'll practice purifying Annamaya Kosha with healthy food and drink, purifying Pranamaya Kosha with breathing and focusing our energy on what is wholesome, purifying Manomaya Kosha by examining our mind and its destructive habits and patterns, purifying Jnanamaya Kosha by seeking to know what is true and pure, and purify Anandamaya Kosha by celebrating life through devotion, joy, and service to others.
When all Koshas have aligned and exist in pure harmony Self-Realization results. Then, we are liberated from torment, and the doors of love, clarity, and truth are opened.
*Annamaya Kosha~(anna means food) this kosha refers to the gross physical body composed of the five elements
*Pranamaya Kosha~(prana means vital energy) and refers to our psycho-physical being on an energetic or electrical level
*Manomaya Kosha~(manas means mind) and refers to the level of our being that is conscious thought, involving reason and logic
*Jnanamaya Kosha~(jnana means intelligence) and refers to our ability to discern truth from untruth, and comprehend the subtle knowledge of experience
*Anandamaya Kosha~(ananda means bliss) and refers to the part of our being that experience divine love and ecstatic joy
This month, as we explore the various layers of our experience we can focus on purifying on all levels to cultivate a human experience that is based on true love, wisdom, and peace. As Sybil puts it, "It is the softening and inter-webbing of all 5 koshas that allows us to know the truth, the intuition of each of us, the heart of each of us (the mana, prana and the anna of each of us) to know what is conditioned in ego and what is unconditioned and pure. It is the way of the heart, belly and root softening, and communicating so that truth rises up so strong and clear, without doubt or second guessing."
So, we'll practice purifying Annamaya Kosha with healthy food and drink, purifying Pranamaya Kosha with breathing and focusing our energy on what is wholesome, purifying Manomaya Kosha by examining our mind and its destructive habits and patterns, purifying Jnanamaya Kosha by seeking to know what is true and pure, and purify Anandamaya Kosha by celebrating life through devotion, joy, and service to others.
When all Koshas have aligned and exist in pure harmony Self-Realization results. Then, we are liberated from torment, and the doors of love, clarity, and truth are opened.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
An Inspiring Story
One of our recent Flow90X contest winners shared her story with us - this is a summary of her words:
"I really was dead set against ever doing or enjoying yoga. It just didnt seem like it was for me. In April of last year I suffered a major and debilitating spinal injury during a skiing accident. I was left severely incapacitated and faced months or even years of recovery. During my initial long months of recovery, I suffered from a syndrome which damaged my nerves and left me virtually paralyzed. Working with a physical therapist, I gradually regained some of my mobility, but was told my recovery was now at a plateau.
Due to the repeated encouragement of my therapist, I reluctantly tried yoga. At first, I was frustrated by my yoga experience. I felt like my body was not moving the way it should, and I had to modify the poses a ton to accomodate my injury. Due to sheer desperation, I persisted. Inspired by the Flow 90X Contest in January, I decided to just come as often as I could and see what would unfold. Amazingly, slowly, but surely, within a few months time, I have regained so much more mobility and function in my physical body.
But this was not all... I experienced something else. I experienced myself completely, without judgment. I realized presence, the true depth of breath, and discovered the mindbody connection people talk about. By following my intuition and listening to the wisdom of my heart, I became Yoga. The yoga practice I could have never seen myself doing or being, became an integral part of my life. I now practice yoga frequently at Flow and attribute the recovery of my body and the blossoming of my heart to yoga."
"I really was dead set against ever doing or enjoying yoga. It just didnt seem like it was for me. In April of last year I suffered a major and debilitating spinal injury during a skiing accident. I was left severely incapacitated and faced months or even years of recovery. During my initial long months of recovery, I suffered from a syndrome which damaged my nerves and left me virtually paralyzed. Working with a physical therapist, I gradually regained some of my mobility, but was told my recovery was now at a plateau.
Due to the repeated encouragement of my therapist, I reluctantly tried yoga. At first, I was frustrated by my yoga experience. I felt like my body was not moving the way it should, and I had to modify the poses a ton to accomodate my injury. Due to sheer desperation, I persisted. Inspired by the Flow 90X Contest in January, I decided to just come as often as I could and see what would unfold. Amazingly, slowly, but surely, within a few months time, I have regained so much more mobility and function in my physical body.
But this was not all... I experienced something else. I experienced myself completely, without judgment. I realized presence, the true depth of breath, and discovered the mindbody connection people talk about. By following my intuition and listening to the wisdom of my heart, I became Yoga. The yoga practice I could have never seen myself doing or being, became an integral part of my life. I now practice yoga frequently at Flow and attribute the recovery of my body and the blossoming of my heart to yoga."
Spring - Healing & Renewal
Spring is Here - the Way of the Healer. Indigenous and tribal peoples of each continent have differing perspectives, but there are also many commonalities - we are exploring them seasonally this year at Flow.
Spring is a time for paying attention to what has heart and meaning. As archetypal healers, we extend our arms in love to acknowledge, accept, recognize, and express gratitude to others. Healers recognize that the greatest remorse is love unexpressed. We are Here to be Love, to express Love. Expressing love in all ways is living life whole-heartedly.
To be whole-hearted, like the four chambers of the heart, we sustain emotional and spiritual health by living full, open, clear and strong.
* We live life fully by saying "Yes" to life as it is now.
* We are open by allowing ourselves to see where we protect or defend and, in allowing ourselves to be open to courage where we feel most vulnerable, create incredible compassion.
* We are clear when we take time to deeply consider and, when we are doubting or ambivalent, be patient and allow the fruit to ripen before taking action or making decisions.
* We are strong in our hearts when we live courageously. The root of the word courage is coeur and one meaning is "the ability to stand by one's heart or to stand by one's core." To move through life authentically, paying attention to what is real and true and present.
Spring is a time for storytelling, singing, dancing and silence. Lying meditation with our hands at our heart and asanas that are rooted in "4-legs" are both practices that support healing and whole-heartedness.
I know the time has come
For me to walk through the door
To take a look at this critic within,
Who only wants me to listen
To what needs to be heard,
So I then can heal
and bring that part of me
back to me.
When I awake in the morning,
It is either the very next day
after many, many days
Or it is the very first day.
Today, it is the very first day
Of what exists now.
~Twainhart Hill
Many thanks to the book the Four-Fold Way for inspiring our seasonal archetypal themes and much of the content here.
Spring is a time for paying attention to what has heart and meaning. As archetypal healers, we extend our arms in love to acknowledge, accept, recognize, and express gratitude to others. Healers recognize that the greatest remorse is love unexpressed. We are Here to be Love, to express Love. Expressing love in all ways is living life whole-heartedly.
To be whole-hearted, like the four chambers of the heart, we sustain emotional and spiritual health by living full, open, clear and strong.
* We live life fully by saying "Yes" to life as it is now.
* We are open by allowing ourselves to see where we protect or defend and, in allowing ourselves to be open to courage where we feel most vulnerable, create incredible compassion.
* We are clear when we take time to deeply consider and, when we are doubting or ambivalent, be patient and allow the fruit to ripen before taking action or making decisions.
* We are strong in our hearts when we live courageously. The root of the word courage is coeur and one meaning is "the ability to stand by one's heart or to stand by one's core." To move through life authentically, paying attention to what is real and true and present.
Spring is a time for storytelling, singing, dancing and silence. Lying meditation with our hands at our heart and asanas that are rooted in "4-legs" are both practices that support healing and whole-heartedness.
I know the time has come
For me to walk through the door
To take a look at this critic within,
Who only wants me to listen
To what needs to be heard,
So I then can heal
and bring that part of me
back to me.
When I awake in the morning,
It is either the very next day
after many, many days
Or it is the very first day.
Today, it is the very first day
Of what exists now.
~Twainhart Hill
Many thanks to the book the Four-Fold Way for inspiring our seasonal archetypal themes and much of the content here.
Winter - The Way of the Warrior
This year, your Flow instructors decided to explore the four seasons from the ways of the ancient healers, visionaries, and healers as four of our monthly themes. This month, we explore winter.
Winter is the way of the warrior. The highest nature of the inner warrior is quite different than inner turmoil outwardly expressed as warring or fighting. To guide in developing our inner warrior, we choose to show up and be present. To show up with honor, respect and courage. The Latin word respicere means "the willingness to look again."
Mastering others is strength;
Mastering yourself is true power.
When you are content to be
simply yourself and dont compare
or compete, everyone will respect you.
~Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching
We convince by our presence.
~Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass
A physical practice for winter's warrior energy is standing in any position (yoga or similar postures are widely recognized for their rebalancing energetic warrior power) with various hand positions, including the deeply powerful position of one hand on the heart (4th chakra) and one hand on solar plexus (3rd chakra). Eyes are fixed softly on a distant point just below your heart level. Here we are anchored in the energy of empowerment and heart. Similar standing meditation practices are found in Oriental, Asian, Tibetan and shamanistic traditions.
Ancient societies drew pictures of trees and tree people to symbolize our biological need to be connected to nature. Another physical practice for the teachings of the warrior, is tree pose. A warrior's way is to be rooted, stable, yet flexible and bending in the wind. Our roots are associated with the honoring of our past. Our trunk the present life force and creative spirit. Branches symbolize our flowering or growing.
Enjoy exploring your inner warrior this month - winter warrior words: north, air, winds, winged creatures, tree people, power, presence, communication, position, standing, right action, show up, and dancing.
Winter is the way of the warrior. The highest nature of the inner warrior is quite different than inner turmoil outwardly expressed as warring or fighting. To guide in developing our inner warrior, we choose to show up and be present. To show up with honor, respect and courage. The Latin word respicere means "the willingness to look again."
Mastering others is strength;
Mastering yourself is true power.
When you are content to be
simply yourself and dont compare
or compete, everyone will respect you.
~Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching
We convince by our presence.
~Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass
A physical practice for winter's warrior energy is standing in any position (yoga or similar postures are widely recognized for their rebalancing energetic warrior power) with various hand positions, including the deeply powerful position of one hand on the heart (4th chakra) and one hand on solar plexus (3rd chakra). Eyes are fixed softly on a distant point just below your heart level. Here we are anchored in the energy of empowerment and heart. Similar standing meditation practices are found in Oriental, Asian, Tibetan and shamanistic traditions.
Ancient societies drew pictures of trees and tree people to symbolize our biological need to be connected to nature. Another physical practice for the teachings of the warrior, is tree pose. A warrior's way is to be rooted, stable, yet flexible and bending in the wind. Our roots are associated with the honoring of our past. Our trunk the present life force and creative spirit. Branches symbolize our flowering or growing.
Enjoy exploring your inner warrior this month - winter warrior words: north, air, winds, winged creatures, tree people, power, presence, communication, position, standing, right action, show up, and dancing.
Love-Union
Love - Union
One of the things that I have have found to be so deeply true is that whether we are speaking of romantic love or unconditional spiritual love, what we are really talking about is the willingness and courage to be unconditionally open, fiercely vulnerable, and radically tender with ourselves and others. The great master Chogyam Trungpa spoke extensively of the 'shaky tenderness' that underlies our whole life situation, and the way to direct our lives toward that tenderness with fearlessness and confidence. In holding ourselves with utmost vulnerability and openness, we discover that we have the capacity to be Love itself. We discover our capacity to be 100% available to ourselves, others, and life.
Love often sounds so sweet, so mushy...but, if we look into the depths of unconditional love we call on our warrior-ship as a way to live our lives totally uninhibited, open, and free. Our willingness to love includes our willingness to hurt, and if we allow ourselves to find the great courage to not turn away from fear or hurt, we manifest within ourselves the capacity to be buddhas and to approach life from a standpoint of radical, fierce love.
One of the things that I have have found to be so deeply true is that whether we are speaking of romantic love or unconditional spiritual love, what we are really talking about is the willingness and courage to be unconditionally open, fiercely vulnerable, and radically tender with ourselves and others. The great master Chogyam Trungpa spoke extensively of the 'shaky tenderness' that underlies our whole life situation, and the way to direct our lives toward that tenderness with fearlessness and confidence. In holding ourselves with utmost vulnerability and openness, we discover that we have the capacity to be Love itself. We discover our capacity to be 100% available to ourselves, others, and life.
Love often sounds so sweet, so mushy...but, if we look into the depths of unconditional love we call on our warrior-ship as a way to live our lives totally uninhibited, open, and free. Our willingness to love includes our willingness to hurt, and if we allow ourselves to find the great courage to not turn away from fear or hurt, we manifest within ourselves the capacity to be buddhas and to approach life from a standpoint of radical, fierce love.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
The Daily Bandha: How to Use Your Shoulders to Deepen Uttanasana
The Daily Bandha: How to Use Your Shoulders to Deepen Uttanasana: "Uttanasana illustrating the anterior deltoids and quadriceps contracting to stretch the posterior kinetic chain The deltoids a..."
Monday, January 10, 2011
Contemplating Yoga
"There are as many concepts on what Yoga is as there are people who practice it. And the scope of different ideas on what constitutes Yoga is also very vast. Yoga has its roots deep in human experience. All cultures, in one form or another have Yoga...though not all cultures practice Down-dog, or Warrior 2. Certainly, we call the practice of asana and pranayama Yoga...but Yoga is also so much more than just posture and breath. Yoga actually includes our whole human experience, and every moment of our lives.
Yoga is the universal aspect of our Heart longing to be conscious, to be happy, and to experience freedom. So, there are many things that we can call Yoga, but in its deepest regard, Yoga is what we experience when we bring consciousness to our lives-- whether that is in a posture in a Yoga class, or it is in washing the dishes. Everything in our lives can be Yoga when we are one with the activity or circumstance in front of us. And, we can also miss out on the Yoga of life if we limit Yoga only to practicing poses, breathing, and chanting OM. Practicing Yoga means giving up our small ideas, and embodying the Love that we are. If that is taken care of, than everything we do is Yoga." ~Adi
Lets explore what Yoga is to you. What does it mean to you?
Yoga is the universal aspect of our Heart longing to be conscious, to be happy, and to experience freedom. So, there are many things that we can call Yoga, but in its deepest regard, Yoga is what we experience when we bring consciousness to our lives-- whether that is in a posture in a Yoga class, or it is in washing the dishes. Everything in our lives can be Yoga when we are one with the activity or circumstance in front of us. And, we can also miss out on the Yoga of life if we limit Yoga only to practicing poses, breathing, and chanting OM. Practicing Yoga means giving up our small ideas, and embodying the Love that we are. If that is taken care of, than everything we do is Yoga." ~Adi
Lets explore what Yoga is to you. What does it mean to you?
Saturday, January 8, 2011
I am...Life
I am...
Green growing toward the sun
Breeze dancing branches
Roots growing toward the source
I am... All
I am...
Light
Life
Water
I am... Love
a poem that came to Steph while meditating in a friend's garden
Green growing toward the sun
Breeze dancing branches
Roots growing toward the source
I am... All
I am...
Light
Life
Water
I am... Love
a poem that came to Steph while meditating in a friend's garden
Friday, January 7, 2011
What is Yoga?
Is Yoga exercise? Is it breath, meditation, and/or spirituality? Is Yoga everything? Is Yoga nothing?
The most agreed upon definition of the Sanskrit word yoga is "yoke" or "union". It is also possible that the word yoga derives from "yujir samadhau," which means "contemplation" or "absorption." Historically, a yoke was used to unite a pair of oxen to allow them to pull a load.
In the west, most of us hear the word yoga and we think of a series of asanas, vinyasas, or kriyas that create a physical practice. Experienced practitioners understand that infusing these physical movements with the breath, philosophical, meditative, and inspirational aspects of yoga creates a much greater benefit than just the physical.
The physical postures and vinyasas that are popularly practiced today are modern compared to the ancient history of Yoga. Most of the physical practice we know today has been developed in the last 100 years. Anthropological evidence, however, shows that the meditative and contemplative aspects of Yoga are thousands of years old. Hatha yoga, or the physical practice, is growing, changing, transforming, and developing every day. However, even yoga postures are just exercise unless they are infused with presence, breath, prana, and awareness.
Here's the thing...anything you do...walking, kiting, biking, sitting, cleaning, pruning, gazing, dancing, talking...anything...if done with real presence, infused with the wisdom of the breath, united with deep energy connection, and ultimately creating deeper awareness and loving acceptance in your life is further yoking or uniting you with what is True. The realization that we are all yoked, united, connected...that ultimately there is no separate self. We are all connected through a matrix of energy, life, love, God...whatever you like to call what is True. This is Yoga, and all its practices, styles, and paths seek to deepen our consciousness and understanding of Truth.
So, at Flow, as we add classes like Fly or Fusion, you will see that they are challenging the body in diverse and unique ways, but they are infused with the Heart of Yoga. This presence, breath, energy, joy, and awareness will inspire and empower you beyond the body.
Thank you for creating a community of Yoga at Flow by your beautiful & diverse presence.
Our theme this month at Flow - is Yoga - all ways. Lets explore what Yoga is to you. What does it mean to you?
Much Love to All of You,
We Are One,
Steph
The most agreed upon definition of the Sanskrit word yoga is "yoke" or "union". It is also possible that the word yoga derives from "yujir samadhau," which means "contemplation" or "absorption." Historically, a yoke was used to unite a pair of oxen to allow them to pull a load.
In the west, most of us hear the word yoga and we think of a series of asanas, vinyasas, or kriyas that create a physical practice. Experienced practitioners understand that infusing these physical movements with the breath, philosophical, meditative, and inspirational aspects of yoga creates a much greater benefit than just the physical.
The physical postures and vinyasas that are popularly practiced today are modern compared to the ancient history of Yoga. Most of the physical practice we know today has been developed in the last 100 years. Anthropological evidence, however, shows that the meditative and contemplative aspects of Yoga are thousands of years old. Hatha yoga, or the physical practice, is growing, changing, transforming, and developing every day. However, even yoga postures are just exercise unless they are infused with presence, breath, prana, and awareness.
Here's the thing...anything you do...walking, kiting, biking, sitting, cleaning, pruning, gazing, dancing, talking...anything...if done with real presence, infused with the wisdom of the breath, united with deep energy connection, and ultimately creating deeper awareness and loving acceptance in your life is further yoking or uniting you with what is True. The realization that we are all yoked, united, connected...that ultimately there is no separate self. We are all connected through a matrix of energy, life, love, God...whatever you like to call what is True. This is Yoga, and all its practices, styles, and paths seek to deepen our consciousness and understanding of Truth.
So, at Flow, as we add classes like Fly or Fusion, you will see that they are challenging the body in diverse and unique ways, but they are infused with the Heart of Yoga. This presence, breath, energy, joy, and awareness will inspire and empower you beyond the body.
Thank you for creating a community of Yoga at Flow by your beautiful & diverse presence.
Our theme this month at Flow - is Yoga - all ways. Lets explore what Yoga is to you. What does it mean to you?
Much Love to All of You,
We Are One,
Steph
ANANDA ~ Bliss
In Sanskrit, there are basically four words for happiness—sukha, santosha, mudita, and ananda—each of which points to a different level of happiness. Together, they constitute a path that leads us to the kind of happiness that really cannot be shaken. Here, we explore ananda or bliss.
The result of looking very deeply at ourselves is the Realization that in the deepest aspect of our being is everything that we've ever wanted. When we see who and what we actually are, rather than what we imagined ourselves to be, bliss is the result. Life is always giving us the opportunity to look deeply at ourselves and at our lives to recognize that we have within us the source of supreme happiness and bliss.
If we can, for just a moment, stop looking outwardly to be fulfilled, or recognized, or adored and turn our focus to look at what is at the deepest core of our being, we will touch a bliss that can never be forgotten, never be destroyed. And, although our lives may continue to present challenges and obstacles, we will know that the bliss of our own Self is always available to us. Bliss is always here, underneath the layers of our mind, identity, and stories as the true and eternal ground on which this dance of life happens.
The result of looking very deeply at ourselves is the Realization that in the deepest aspect of our being is everything that we've ever wanted. When we see who and what we actually are, rather than what we imagined ourselves to be, bliss is the result. Life is always giving us the opportunity to look deeply at ourselves and at our lives to recognize that we have within us the source of supreme happiness and bliss.
If we can, for just a moment, stop looking outwardly to be fulfilled, or recognized, or adored and turn our focus to look at what is at the deepest core of our being, we will touch a bliss that can never be forgotten, never be destroyed. And, although our lives may continue to present challenges and obstacles, we will know that the bliss of our own Self is always available to us. Bliss is always here, underneath the layers of our mind, identity, and stories as the true and eternal ground on which this dance of life happens.
Mudita ~ Spiritual Happiness
In Sanskrit, there are basically four words for happiness—sukha, santosha, mudita, and ananda—each of which points to a different level of happiness. Together, they constitute a path that leads us to the kind of happiness that really cannot be shaken. Let's explore mudita or spiritual happiness.
"The only thing greater than being loved is being Love itself" -Adyashanti
Mudita, or spiritual happiness really becomes possible when our attention goes to Loving Life just as it is, right now. Luckily, there's never a moment when that is not possible. This moment right here is the only opportunity for real happiness. Being alive in this moment is being alive with Love! Real spiritual happiness doesn't follow whether your yoga class went well, or after meditation was a success, it comes only from inside our own Being. Spiritual happiness, Joy even...is what we all want because in the depths of what we are, we are Joy. Please celebrate the happiness of your inherent joy together, alone, and in all moments of your life.
"The only thing greater than being loved is being Love itself" -Adyashanti
Mudita, or spiritual happiness really becomes possible when our attention goes to Loving Life just as it is, right now. Luckily, there's never a moment when that is not possible. This moment right here is the only opportunity for real happiness. Being alive in this moment is being alive with Love! Real spiritual happiness doesn't follow whether your yoga class went well, or after meditation was a success, it comes only from inside our own Being. Spiritual happiness, Joy even...is what we all want because in the depths of what we are, we are Joy. Please celebrate the happiness of your inherent joy together, alone, and in all moments of your life.
Santosha - Contentment
In Sanskrit, there are basically four words for happiness—sukha, santosha, mudita, and ananda—each of which points to a different level of happiness. Together, they constitute a path that leads us to the kind of happiness that really cannot be shaken. In April, we explore santosha or contenment.
Contentment
Contentment is the afterglow of living honestly and truthfully. Santosha is present when we stop defining what makes us happy. ~Sybil
When we let go of our past stories, patterns, habits, that create our illusionary identity, When we surrender seeking or striving for some future happiness,
NOW
We
ARE
Contentment.
~Steph
Santosha has been, for me, a real ego buster...it shows me something greater that letting myself feel disappointed or discontented with any given situation...switching it to being in a place of contentment or acceptance...I see that in some way we think we are deserving of a good day or a positive experience...I am the same loved and loving person in every situation and santosha is a constant knowing that my life is blessed and filled in every way...It has taken out the need to evaluate or put labels on my "special or particular way of feeling" I learn to rest into santosha or contentment and know its Truth.~Sybil
Contentment
Contentment is the afterglow of living honestly and truthfully. Santosha is present when we stop defining what makes us happy. ~Sybil
When we let go of our past stories, patterns, habits, that create our illusionary identity, When we surrender seeking or striving for some future happiness,
NOW
We
ARE
Contentment.
~Steph
Santosha has been, for me, a real ego buster...it shows me something greater that letting myself feel disappointed or discontented with any given situation...switching it to being in a place of contentment or acceptance...I see that in some way we think we are deserving of a good day or a positive experience...I am the same loved and loving person in every situation and santosha is a constant knowing that my life is blessed and filled in every way...It has taken out the need to evaluate or put labels on my "special or particular way of feeling" I learn to rest into santosha or contentment and know its Truth.~Sybil
SUKHA ~ Pleasure and Spaciousness
So many of the people I talk with really believe that they want spiritual awakening, and with a little looking find out that what they're really after is pleasure. We think we want Truth, but what we usually want is to feel better. Which is perfectly normal. However, what I often see is that as soon as one feels better, the desire for Truth (or awakening) suddenly seems unimportant.
It is important that we strive to feel better, but mistaking the desire for spiritual awakening for pleasure is like mistaking a band aid for total health.
Pleasure is great, I encourage it...but to believe that pleasure, or feeling good, will last in the long run is to invite yourself over and over into suffering.
The happiness or fulfillment of awakening is much more like spaciousness. In open space there is a sense of clarity, openness, freedom, and of non-changing.
So let's be very very clear about what it is that we're after...
Do we just want one more good feeling?
One more experience?
Real spaciousness and what is discovered in authentic spiritual awakening is really the end of all that...This is the wilingness to bear pain, to bear hardship, to bear suffering without running for a dose of pleasure.
It is important that we strive to feel better, but mistaking the desire for spiritual awakening for pleasure is like mistaking a band aid for total health.
Pleasure is great, I encourage it...but to believe that pleasure, or feeling good, will last in the long run is to invite yourself over and over into suffering.
The happiness or fulfillment of awakening is much more like spaciousness. In open space there is a sense of clarity, openness, freedom, and of non-changing.
So let's be very very clear about what it is that we're after...
Do we just want one more good feeling?
One more experience?
Real spaciousness and what is discovered in authentic spiritual awakening is really the end of all that...This is the wilingness to bear pain, to bear hardship, to bear suffering without running for a dose of pleasure.
Heart
Focus: 4th Chakra - Anahata
First, be in Love.
Then, if there is any time left, you can speak of it.
No head is needed to speak of Love, only Heart.
In this Heart there is no need for maps to get home.
The easiest thing is to be Here in this Love,
all else is effort and takes effort.
Remove all ideas: This is Love
Love, the Heart, this Moment, Is the Truth.
To see this Love everywhere see only from Love.
See from Heart and you will see only Heart,
but see from ego and you will see ego.
The moment of Love does not belong
to a "me" or to a "you" so there I am in Love.
When mind is no-mind it is Heart.
Heart is Self, is Atman, is Emptiness.
~~Papaji
First, be in Love.
Then, if there is any time left, you can speak of it.
No head is needed to speak of Love, only Heart.
In this Heart there is no need for maps to get home.
The easiest thing is to be Here in this Love,
all else is effort and takes effort.
Remove all ideas: This is Love
Love, the Heart, this Moment, Is the Truth.
To see this Love everywhere see only from Love.
See from Heart and you will see only Heart,
but see from ego and you will see ego.
The moment of Love does not belong
to a "me" or to a "you" so there I am in Love.
When mind is no-mind it is Heart.
Heart is Self, is Atman, is Emptiness.
~~Papaji
Ishvara Pranidhana
What does it mean to surrender to one's True Self? Probably not what we imagine it to mean... How does one go about surrendering to one's own self? The answer is definitely not what we think....
To surrender to one's self is not a matter of simply submitting yourself to all that is beautiful and wonderful within you, but it is to also give up those beautiful images that we have of ourselves. It is both the beautiful and ugly aspects of ourselves that are equally untrue. Beneath the notions of beautiful and ugly, is a formless, shapeless, empty fullness that is truly who one is. Allowing any image we have of our selves to be sunk into that Mystery...is to truly surrender to one's True Self.
We'd love to hear about what Ishvara Pranidhana means to you? Has there been a moment of realization that you've experienced related to this niyama that you'd like share?
To surrender to one's self is not a matter of simply submitting yourself to all that is beautiful and wonderful within you, but it is to also give up those beautiful images that we have of ourselves. It is both the beautiful and ugly aspects of ourselves that are equally untrue. Beneath the notions of beautiful and ugly, is a formless, shapeless, empty fullness that is truly who one is. Allowing any image we have of our selves to be sunk into that Mystery...is to truly surrender to one's True Self.
We'd love to hear about what Ishvara Pranidhana means to you? Has there been a moment of realization that you've experienced related to this niyama that you'd like share?
Sweet Surrender - Ishvara
Ishvara can be defined as the True Self, or purusha. The Bhagavad Gita stanza 18.61 refers to the "transcendental Self that abides in the heart region of all beings". Pranidhana is to "throw down", "give up", or "surrender". So, the last of our niyamas (yogic guidelines for living) Ishvara Pranidhana is to surrender to what is True within each of us.
As we shine the light of awareness on our lives through yogic practices, we give up attachments to egoic pursuits, identities, patterns, and delusions. We live from Heart, Truth-- staying sincere to what is True to our experience with curiosity and interest and Love. With bhakti/devotion, exploring freedom from the ignorance/avidya of living a contrived life of shoulds, expectations, and attachments.
Simpy living a life devoted to surrendering each moment to Truth. To what you KNOW to be True in your Heart. This Truth can not be taught, but only experienced. The yogic practices may or may not ready you for the experience of Truth, depending on your sincerity.
As we shine the light of awareness on our lives through yogic practices, we give up attachments to egoic pursuits, identities, patterns, and delusions. We live from Heart, Truth-- staying sincere to what is True to our experience with curiosity and interest and Love. With bhakti/devotion, exploring freedom from the ignorance/avidya of living a contrived life of shoulds, expectations, and attachments.
Simpy living a life devoted to surrendering each moment to Truth. To what you KNOW to be True in your Heart. This Truth can not be taught, but only experienced. The yogic practices may or may not ready you for the experience of Truth, depending on your sincerity.
Once in a Blue Moon...
The blue moonlight mist on this New Years Eve is beautiful. I, too, am reflecting like the moon, with grateful presence, on the joys and challenges of this Life. Adi and I began today harmonizing yoga with sweet sounds of truth sung so amazingly by Michelle...in 2009, we welcomed a son and lost a mother.
Moving into 2010, I am reminded that our Flow sangha/community is growing into its seventh year. The tradition of new year reflection and hope toward the future is as natural as the change of seasons. However, this year, I am shining the light of awareness on my perspective a little more wholly.
Goals tend to be external and time-focused, and although they can be empowering they are only temporary. This is why some of us have given up this tradition. The yoga approach is more internal and presence aware. Realizing that we truly can not change anything about who we really are. Who we really are is eternal, present, Truth. We are not these beautiful bodies, brilliant minds, and talented hands (although deeply grateful for this experience of them), but something more.
So, this year, instead of goals, I am fine-tuning my affirmations/intentions to become reminders written in the present tense. Now, once, during this blue moon, I write this with the full awareness that these are perspectives that I shine and reflect...on this divine play, lila, called Life. I also completely release any attachment to them, surrendering them to the blue moon sky and the whole of the universe with faith and gratitude...simply shining the light of awareness:
~Resting each evening, knowing the many facets of the jewel I shine & reflect
~Gracefully surrendering to mothering, giving SO MUCH LOVE with humor & gratitude
~Feeling healthy, cultivating vital energy, & resting when it feels natural
~Pausing to reflect, being gratefully present with those I love, including myself
~Finding inner silence and stillness
There is no lasting change, everything is temporary. However, I have experienced the grace of transformation. Transformation occurs naturally when awareness allows true acceptance of what is and the Truth of who you are. All the goal-setting, trying, effort, intending, affirming, etc in the world may provide you temporary change, attachment, pleasure. However, true transformation is effortless..GRACE...naturally arising from the presence of awareness and acceptance.
Moving into 2010, I am reminded that our Flow sangha/community is growing into its seventh year. The tradition of new year reflection and hope toward the future is as natural as the change of seasons. However, this year, I am shining the light of awareness on my perspective a little more wholly.
Goals tend to be external and time-focused, and although they can be empowering they are only temporary. This is why some of us have given up this tradition. The yoga approach is more internal and presence aware. Realizing that we truly can not change anything about who we really are. Who we really are is eternal, present, Truth. We are not these beautiful bodies, brilliant minds, and talented hands (although deeply grateful for this experience of them), but something more.
So, this year, instead of goals, I am fine-tuning my affirmations/intentions to become reminders written in the present tense. Now, once, during this blue moon, I write this with the full awareness that these are perspectives that I shine and reflect...on this divine play, lila, called Life. I also completely release any attachment to them, surrendering them to the blue moon sky and the whole of the universe with faith and gratitude...simply shining the light of awareness:
~Resting each evening, knowing the many facets of the jewel I shine & reflect
~Gracefully surrendering to mothering, giving SO MUCH LOVE with humor & gratitude
~Feeling healthy, cultivating vital energy, & resting when it feels natural
~Pausing to reflect, being gratefully present with those I love, including myself
~Finding inner silence and stillness
There is no lasting change, everything is temporary. However, I have experienced the grace of transformation. Transformation occurs naturally when awareness allows true acceptance of what is and the Truth of who you are. All the goal-setting, trying, effort, intending, affirming, etc in the world may provide you temporary change, attachment, pleasure. However, true transformation is effortless..GRACE...naturally arising from the presence of awareness and acceptance.
Silence, Winter, & Svadhyaya
When trees have blossomed, fruit has ripenened, and leaves have fallen, we are left with just the bare naked self. In the dead of spiritual winter we have this deep invitation to turn our attention inward, to look at ourselves very deeply.
We may look, as in svadhyaya, at the patterns, conditioning, phenomena of the mind, body, and emotion. And we may look simply through silence, through remaining in the still dark quiet beneath thought, body, and emotion. This time of cold, of short days, of resting, is opportune to begin investigating our lives so that this season may be used to get to the root. When springtime comes, the fruit blossoms very sweet.
We may look, as in svadhyaya, at the patterns, conditioning, phenomena of the mind, body, and emotion. And we may look simply through silence, through remaining in the still dark quiet beneath thought, body, and emotion. This time of cold, of short days, of resting, is opportune to begin investigating our lives so that this season may be used to get to the root. When springtime comes, the fruit blossoms very sweet.
Svadhyaya
Svadhyaya is the movement to understand one's self on an intellectual, emotional, and mental level. As we become more conscious of our body, mind, and breath, our yogic practice allows us to become more aware of how we react or rejoice to each moment of success, challenge, or stillness.
It is when we can understand the nature of our thought and feeling that we can discover what we are not. Finding out who you are not gives rise to the spaciousness in which you find your Self as you really are--Unknown, Mysterious, and Unconditioned.
Svadhyaya allows us the opportunity to learn about all the little ins and outs of our little person, and how we've come to believe in this story called "me". When we see that our lives have been toward living out this little story, there is the grace of something much more vast taking over our lives, our being.
It is when we can understand the nature of our thought and feeling that we can discover what we are not. Finding out who you are not gives rise to the spaciousness in which you find your Self as you really are--Unknown, Mysterious, and Unconditioned.
Svadhyaya allows us the opportunity to learn about all the little ins and outs of our little person, and how we've come to believe in this story called "me". When we see that our lives have been toward living out this little story, there is the grace of something much more vast taking over our lives, our being.
Santosha
Santosha is the practice of relaxing into life. Realizing that there will always be ups and downs in life. Like the Chinese say, “10,000 joys, 10,000 sorrrows”. Accepting that chaos can interrupt even the greatest effort to “balance” our lives, we don’t have a choice in that. However, we do have a choice in how we respond or react to life’s disruptions. Really trusting that all is unfolding perfectly; and, that everything that happens offers a life experience for deepening our awareness and understanding. Flowing through life with gratitude, appreciation and trust, so that we can allow ourselves to be more relaxed, more present, and, therefore, more content.
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