Chakra Blahblah

Dialogue Like This Is Wasted on Children

2011-06-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

"Your story may not have such a happy beginning, but that doesn't make you who you are.
It is the rest of your story, who you choose to be... So, who are you, Panda?"

~Soothsayer
Kung Fu Panda, II

"If"

2011-05-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

If
by Rudyard Kipling

IF you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
' Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,
if neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

I'm somewhere's in the middle...

2010-11-23T09:03:00.000-08:00

On the one hand... nihilism.

On the other... Pascal's Wager.

2010-07-27T08:56:00.001-07:00

Now having been questioned by the Pharisees as to when the kingdom of God was coming, He answered them and said, “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or, ‘There it is!’ For behold, the kingdom of God is within you.”

– Luke 17:20, 21

2010-02-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

The trouble with the world is that the stupid are cocksure,
and the intelligent are full of doubt.
~ Bertrand Russell

2010-01-25T12:00:00.000-08:00

Religion is for people who don't want to end up in hell when they die.
Spirituality is for those of us who have already been through hell--
and don't want to return!

~Hat tip: Fugitive247

2010-01-14T10:02:00.001-08:00

2009-12-31T13:13:00.001-08:00

Year’s end, all
corners of this
floating world, swept.
~Matsu Basho

2009-12-13T13:01:00.000-08:00

Give Me The Roses While I Live
~R.H. CORNELIUS

Wonderful things of folks are said
When they have passed away
Roses adorn the narrow bed
Over the sleeping clay

Give me the roses while I live
Trying to cheer me on
Useless are flowers that you give
After the soul is gone

Kind words are useless when folks lie
Cold in a narrow bed
Don't wait till death to speak kind words
Now should the words be said

Let us not wait to do good deeds
Till they have passed away
Now is the time to sow good seeds
While here on earth we stay

2009-11-26T21:47:00.000-08:00

I think Tim Leary was right. Everyone must create his own religion. You must start your own religion. I have my own religion. Every sadhu has his own religion in India. They say every lama has his own religion in Tibet. Find the way you can genuinely be you. What do you like to do? Find God there. Find out what your special gift is and where you find that connection, what really makes you happy, and follow that way.

The peace that comes from letting go and surrendering is incredible. Again and again it keeps coming back to letting go of our own will to have a plan about where we're going and a goal. It seems that we spontaneously align with the Plan of God for us. I think that's the whole "follow your bliss" thing. It's really Thy will be done, not mine. Jesus said it all. Love the Lord with all your heart and soul, and your neighbor as yourself. That's it. There is no one out there but us. And if we can just put God first, Om first—offer the food up, offer the day up—then there is peace.

Bhagavan Das, It's Here Now (Are You?)

2009-11-06T08:42:00.001-08:00

2009-11-05T08:37:00.001-08:00

It is so good to remember God every moment.
And if you can't remember God, remember death.
Death will bring you there.
~Bhagavan Das

2009-09-24T08:21:00.000-07:00

Knitting a Sweater
By Denny Davis

I spent my whole life knitting a sweater
with no pattern or instructions.
I used dull, bent needles and poor quality yarn.
However I worked very hard
to make the best sweater I could possibly make.

After 53 years I ended up with something
that was not at all like I had envisioned.
It was poorly fitting -
so tight it restricted my movements,
very uncomfortable and irritating,
a dull, dreary color
with many dropped stitches.

I decided I would unravel it just a bit
and try to fix it a little -
pick up some dropped stitches,
improve the pattern,
maybe add some color.

However things got out of hand
and it started to unravel on its own
in spite of my attempts to stop it.

You might think I would be glad
to see such a poor quality sweater destroyed.
However I have very mixed feelings about it.
In the first place it was the only sweater I had.
It was far from perfect, even ugly,
but it did keep out some of the drafts
and it was known and familiar.

Now the only thing to do is to start over.

The problem is that I still have no pattern,
and I still have the same dull, bent needles
and poor quality yarn to work with.
If I try again I might well end up with
the same kind of sweater as before.
And even if I do a little better
I am not sure if it is worth the effort.

Maybe it would be easier just to stay cold.

2009-09-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

I was born and baptised Episcopalian, converted to Reform Judaism during my first marriage, reverted back to a not-necessarily practicing Episcopalian, I'm a Christian "pluralist" (I am a follower of Jesus--not necessarily a "believer" in a lot of the myths around him; recognize many different valid paths to enlightenment etc) and I'm not a Scriptural Literalist. I married my Hindu husband by a Unitarian minister, and I've been very interested in Hindu chants and centering/meditation, and have always believed in the "Light Within" that both Hindus and Quakers believe.

I'm all kinds of mixed up!

I don't know what to do as dad's (death) anniversary date is coming up. Do I celebrate All Souls/Day of the Dead? Do I light a yizkor candle and chant the mourner's kaddish? Do I go to a Hindu temple and do whatever they do on the death anniversary of a parent? All three seem natural to me. Do I pick one? Do I do all three?

The death of a parent does not come with a "to do list" or a manual. I'm so lost.

2009-09-17T15:22:00.000-07:00

Crumbs on the water
Casting out sins and regrets
Drifting forgiveness

Unfathomable
Succeed and fail together
Our fates are inscribed

To our lives and health
Investing ourselves, earnestly
Ahavat, shalom

9/18/09
Rosh Hashana
(c) S.F. "Maven"

Posted by Joel Osteen Ministries on FB Today

2009-09-15T08:13:00.000-07:00

By Way of Remembrance

Today at 9:59am

Today’s Verse: “I think it right, as long as I am in this tabernacle (tent, body), to stir you up by way of remembrance” (II Peter 1:13, AMP).

Today’s Word:

Do you know that when we dwell on the wrong things, it affects our moods? We get down, discouraged, and lose our hope. Some people today don’t have the joy and the enthusiasm God wants them to have because they are constantly dwelling on negative things.

But if we want to be in the position to take hold of all that God has in store for us, we have to stir ourselves up by changing our thinking. Instead of dwelling on and remembering all the bad things that have happened in life, you have to remember all the good things God has done for you. Every time you give God praise, every time you sing a song of victory, you are acknowledging and remembering His goodness. You are causing your mind to focus on what He’s done for you. And, I’m convinced one reason the scripture tells us to bless the Lord at all times is because you can’t praise and complain at the same time!

I encourage you today, stay proactive. Don’t become passive in your thought life. Don’t let your guard down. Keep stirring yourself up by remembering His faithfulness and watch what He will do on your behalf!

Prayer for Today: Father in heaven, today I choose to keep my mind focused on Your goodness. Thank You for Your grace, mercy, and loving-kindness. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus so that I can live in victory. I bless and praise You today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

2009-09-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

[...]

The Hassidic perspective of Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi based on the teachings of the Zohar implores one to "repay the offenders with favors":

"So, too, in matters affecting a person's relations with his fellow, as soon as there rises from his heart to his mind any animosity or hatred, G-d forbid, or jealousy, anger, or a grudge and the like, he allows them no entrance into his mind and will. On the contrary, his mind exercises its authority and power over the feelings in his heart to do the very opposite, namely, to conduct himself towards his fellow with the quality of kindness and a display of abundant love to the extreme limits, without becoming provoked into anger, G-d forbid, or to revenge in kind, G-d forbid, but rather to repay the offenders with favors, as taught in the Zohar, that one should learn from the example of Yosef [Joseph] towards his brothers." (Tanya, ch. 12)

Pragmatic

2009-09-08T07:57:00.000-07:00

Endeavour then to convince yourself, not by increase of proofs of God, but by the abatement of your passions. You would like to attain faith, and do not know the way; you would like to cure yourself of unbelief, and ask the remedy for it. Learn of those who have been bound like you, and who now stake all their possessions. These are people who know the way which you would follow, and who are cured of an ill of which you would be cured. Follow the way by which they began; by acting as if they believed, bless yourself with holy water, have Masses said, and so on; by a simple and natural process this will make you believe, and will dull you—will quiet your proudly critical intellect...

Now, what harm will befall you in taking this side? You will be faithful, honest, humble, grateful, generous, a sincere friend, truthful. Certainly you will not have those poisonous pleasures, glory and luxury; but will you not have others? I will tell you that you will thereby gain in this life, and that, at each step you take on this road, you will see so great certainty of gain, so much nothingness in what you risk, that you will at last recognize that you have wagered for something certain and infinite, for which you have given nothing.

~Blaise Pascal

2009-08-13T09:55:00.001-07:00

"I celebrate myself, and sing myself,
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you."

--Walt Whitman

Interesting (To Me, At Least)

2009-08-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite quotes:
Who can hope for nothing, should despair for nothing.
~Seneca

Something I fall short of daily:

Those who consciousness is unified abandon all attachment to
the results of action and attain supreme peace.
But those whose desires are fragmented, who are selfishly attached
to the results of their work, are bound in everything they do.
~Bhagavad Gita

Puzzled

2009-08-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

I have no sense of my spiritual center. NONE.

Born/baptized/confirmed Episcopalian;
Married into/converted to Reform Judaism;
Divorced/reverted to non-practicing Christian pluralist/Scripture non-literalist;
Married a Hindu by a Unitarian minister;
Tinkered with notions of Universalistic Quakerism;
Fascinated by Ramakrishna, Ammachi, and Ram Dass;
Feel equally at home in a Jewish temple, Hindu temple, Catholic or Episcopalian church;

So tell me, who am I?

2009-07-24T14:42:00.000-07:00

"He that teaches those that do not want to hear is performing an immoral act. And, besides, they can't hear it anyway..."

~Bhagavad Gita, as extrapolated upon by Baba Ram Dass

2009-06-23T09:39:00.001-07:00

In religion and politics, people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second hand, and without examination.
~Mark Twain

2009-06-04T09:48:00.001-07:00

May the God of your choice bless and keep you.
I respect Him as long as He does not circumcise me anymore.
~Kinky Friedman

2009-04-27T14:37:00.000-07:00

"I only mark the hours that shine."
~Little Edie, Edith Bouvier Beale

2009-02-23T07:48:00.001-08:00

"Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn't arrived yet.
I have just one day, and I'm going to be happy in it."
— Groucho Marx

2008-11-26T08:20:00.000-08:00

If God created us in his own image,
we have more than reciprocated.
      Voltaire (1694-1778)

Namaste.

2008-11-14T08:22:00.000-08:00

Saw this today at http://www.naute.com/stories/hideout.phtml, and

thought I'd share it herein.

According to an old Hindu legend...

..there was once a time when all human beings were gods, but they so abused their divinity that Brahma, the chief god, decided to take it away from them and hide it where it could never be found.

Where to hide their divinity was the question. So Brahma called a council of the gods to help him decide. "Let's bury it deep in the earth," said the gods. But Brahma answered, "No, that will not do because humans will dig into the earth and find it." Then the gods said, "Let's sink it in the deepest ocean." But Brahma said, "No, not there, for they will learn to dive into the ocean and will find it." Then the gods said, "Let's take it to the top of the highest mountain and hide it there." But once again Brahma replied, "No, that will not do either, because they will eventually climb every mountain and once again take up their divinity." Then the gods gave up and said, "We do not know where to hide it, because it seems that there is no place on earth or in the sea that human beings will not eventually reach."

Brahma thought for a long time and then said, "Here is what we will do. We will hide their divinity deep in the center of their own being, for humans will never think to look for it there."

All the gods agreed that this was the perfect hiding place, and the deed was done. And since that time humans have been going up and down the earth, digging, diving, climbing, and exploring--searching for something already within themselves.

Author unknown

It's Been a While

2008-09-04T14:51:00.000-07:00

I've been up to a lot of things as of late, namely a fascination with canning, "sun pickling," and fermentation in the form of kombucha. I think my next batch will be the best batch. Not much really to report. Hoping to have a picture of my jug and my scobeys.

Still haven't gotten back into a yoga routine.

Reading up on WLS, not out of vanity, but to prevent a whole host of problems both of my parents are dealing with, and robbing not only themselves of a vital "golden years" time for them, but robbing me and my sister of our youth, as they have not (and doesn't look like it'll be done anytime soon) come up with a viable health care plan (and no, I don't mean insurance, I mean, they are both so ill, they haven't come up with a plan as to getting themselves the assistance, medical, financial, otherwise that they need. DESPERATELY.

Half the summer was shot due to their tandem hospitalizations. My sister is totally fried, as am I, despite sis getting the lion's share of "IT."

Oy.

ETA: In August, mom was close to death, yet recovered; In September dad went in for open-heart surgery to replace a valve. He passed away one month "to the day" after.

Timely Thoughts From Seneca the Younger

2008-06-03T12:20:00.000-07:00

We are mad, not only individually, but nationally. We check manslaughter and isolated murders; but what of war and the much-vaunted crime of slaughtering whole peoples?

There are no limits to our greed, none to our cruelty. And as long as such crimes are committed by stealth and by individuals, they are less harmful and less portentous; but cruelties are practiced in accordance with acts of senate and popular assembly, and the public is bidden to do that which is forbidden to the individual.

Deeds that would be punished by loss of life when committed in secret, are praised by us because uniformed generals have carried them out. Man, naturally the gentlest class of being, is not ashamed to revel in the blood of others, to wage war, and to entrust the waging of war to his sons, when even dumb beasts and wild beasts keep the peace with one another. Against this overmastering and widespread madness philosophy has become a matter of greater effort, and has taken on strength in proportion to the strength which is gained by the opposition forces.

Epistles, Seneca the Younger
Page 95, beginning at line 30, as translated by Richard M. Gummere

Something For a Monday

2008-02-11T06:47:00.001-08:00

Let your love flow outward through the universe,
To its height, its depth, its broad extent,
A limitless love, without hatred or enmity.
Then as you stand or walk,
Sit or lie down,
As long as you are awake,
Strive for this with a one-pointed mind;
Your life will bring heaven to earth.
~ The Sutta Nipata

Tonglen

2008-01-28T14:15:00.000-08:00

If anyone reads this blog... which I can't blame anyone for NOT reading it, given I have all but abandoned it since October...

I highly recommend getting a hold of some CDs by Pema Chodron and listen to them. I currently have been listening to her disc which involves Tonglen Meditation. I usually pop a disc in the player as I am preparing to go to sleep. Sometimes I'll do a few stretches or traction my neck and then roll over into a position which is conducive to sleep, while listening to her.

She has a good humor and a good heart, and her words and tone are so soothing. It's a great mental and emotional restorative to listen to her as I drift off to sleep.

The husband and I are sleeping apart during winter because we both snore too loud and keep the other awake--I'm almost going to regret it when Springtime arrives, as he no doubt will not want to listen to a disc while he drops off to sleep.

My Mind's On Yoga, Even if My Body's Not In An Asana...

2007-10-30T14:49:00.000-07:00

And as lame as that thought might seem...

Something else might seem lame-r.

Yoga Toes.

I own a pair.

They're fabulous.

I've been focusing a bit more on my karma yoga and "good yarn karma" with my crochet and little charity work... but it's all part of the big picture, not little disconnected compartments of my life.

Just wish my depression didn't take on such a physical edge, and I know I'd probably feel a bit better if I surrendered to the asanas, especially with the colder weather now, and my joints hurt and are stiff. But I just can't. It takes all the energy in me to do just what I'm doing right now...

Surviving.

Namaste.

Regarding Ghandi-ji

2007-06-28T14:49:00.001-07:00

50 ways to find joy

2007-05-12T08:56:00.000-07:00

50 ways to find joy; when you're happy, you feel better, look better, and live longer. Here's how you can brighten your day - Cover Story
Natural Health, May-June, 2002 by Daphna Caperonis

1 Create ambiance. For tonight's dinner, put out your best linens, create a centerpiece, or simply light a candle. A festive setting makes for a festive mood.

2 Get outside. Whenever you feel bored, antsy, or gloomy, go for a walk. The fresh air, changing scenery, and exercise will boost your mood.

3 Bow out gracefully. The next time you argue with someone, be the first person to relent and acknowledge the other person's point of view. You'll both be smiling sooner.

4 Pat a pet. Rub a good dog. Scratch a cat. Pets love us unconditionally and relieve our stress.

5 Hit the sack sooner. Go to bed an hour early tonight. Tomorrow, you'll wake up with a brighter outlook.

6 Build someone's future. Volunteer with a local charity. To find a nonprofit or tax-exempt organization near you, visit www.volunteermatch.org.

7 Buy something beautiful. Place a small but exquisite painting, handmade vase, or other piece of art prominently in your home. Admire it often.
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8 Take lessons. When you were a kid, did you always want to try horseback riding or sailing? Do you wish you could take up a hobby, like knitting or piano playing? Now is the time to learn how. Hobbies are fun and relieve stress. Look for appropriate schools in the phone book.

9 Add greenery. Adorn your desk and kitchen counter with cut flowers, houseplants, or potted herbs. Plants are proven mood enhancers.

10 Know you're loved. There's no greater joy.

11 Look to the heavens. Whenever you have a chance to relax under the stars, do it. Gazing at the night sky makes you feel more connected to the world.

12 Relish a juicy read. When you start a book and know that it's going to be good, take a moment to enjoy the tingling in your toes.

13 Revel in simplicity. Buy a single rose, tulip, or gerber daisy. Admire the color and shape of the petals and remember how beautiful life can be.

14 Awaken your Inner Julia Child. Create a dish without a recipe from just the ingredients in your pantry. Discover your creative power.

15 Care for yourself. Gently brush your hair or massage your scalp every night before you go to bed. This simple ritual will relax you.

16 Keep in touch. Write a friend. Use your best pen and beautiful stationery. Realize that you are actually sending love.

17 Start a tea party. Schedule a regular tea date with your friends and honor it like any other appointment. During stressful weeks you'll have something fun to look forward to.

18 Climb something. Find a tree, a monument, or the highest point in your town. Take in the view from the top and forget your worries.

19 Redo a room. Paint a bureau, a door, four walls, or even a ceiling anything but white. A new color brings change and beauty into your life quickly and with little effort.

20 Crack yourself up. Conjure up the funniest movie scene you know or a silly true story starring yourself. Laugh out loud.

21 Play Jeopardy. Watch a game show with your spouse, your kids, or your best friend. Yell out whatever answers come to mind. Laugh when you're right, and laugh when you're wrong.

22 Day trip. Wake up at 5:30 one weekend morning to commune with nature, whether you climb a mountain or walk a shoreline. Enjoy the thrill of breathing fresh outdoor air all day long.

23 Sleep in. Allow yourself at least one lazy weekend morning a month.

24 Take a detour. Stray from your usual route. Be stimulated by new neighborhoods and people, and appreciate the challenge of finding your way home.

25 Bear gifts. Keep little presents like scented candles or homemade jams on hand. Offer them to friends for no reason in particular. When you give to others, the world seems more generous.

26 Jump for joy. Literally. Hopping up and down in place for 30 seconds infuses you with energy and youthful vigor. (It also strengthens your bones.)

27 Make a joyful book. Fill a small album with photos and stories that evoke your happiest memories.

28 Plan a picnic. Call some friends and then pack fresh fruit, sandwiches, and maybe a bottle of wine. While away the afternoon under the shade of a tree.

29 Play the game "New or Good." At the end of each day, ask your partner to tell you about one new or good experience. Then offer your own response. Maybe you noticed blooming roses or a bluebird in your backyard, or your cranky neighbor smiled.

30 Learn how to use a tool. Grind whole spices in a mortar with a pestle, find Saturn's rings with a telescope, or cut wood shelves with a circular saw. Feel good about your competence.

31 Send birthday joy. For their birthdays, write your friends letters recounting favorite memories or telling them what they mean to you. Hint that you like receiving mail, too.

32 Meditate while you walk. Stroll through a familiar part of town and focus your mind on its sights, smells, and sounds. If other thoughts pop up, acknowledge them but return your concentration to what's around you.

33 Be an active constituent. Take steps to resolve a political issue that worries you by writing your congressperson. Log on to www.congress.org or call 202-224-3121 to find his or her address in a flash.

34 Remember kindness. Recall a situation in which a friend treated you kindly. Mentally extend the feelings of joy she inspired back to her.

We're Not Making This Up!

Studies show that simple activities really do increase joy, and joy increases your life span. To wit:

* Progressive muscle relaxation increased feelings of joy and relaxation in a study of 42 students published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology last year. To learn how to do it, see the top of the next page.

* Children who exercised aerobically for 15 minutes felt significantly more joyful afterward than those who watched a 15-minute video, according to a study published in Perception of Motor Skills last year. Recent evidence also suggests that grown-ups find joy in brief bouts of aerobic exercise.

* Last year, a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology showed a correlation between longevity and positive feelings in the diaries of a group of nuns. Those who lived the longest expressed the most joy about life.
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35 Practice relaxation. Regular use of progressive muscle relaxation can increase feelings of joy. To try it, lie in a quiet place. For 10 to 20 minutes, slowly contract and release every muscle in your body, starting with the muscles in your toes and ending with those on your face.

36 Paint a picture. You don't have to create a masterpiece. Buy some inexpensive watercolors and a pad of paper, and let the colors guide you.

37 Croon in your car. Stash a cassette tape whose lyrics you know by heart in your glove compartment. When you're stuck in traffic, play it and sing along as loud as you can.

38 Tidy up your bathroom. You wince. But a spotless toilet, shining sink, and clean fluffy towels are a joy for the next visitor--even if it's you.

39 Marry beauty and practicality. Next time you need an everyday object, like a cereal bowl or a coffee mug, choose the most pleasing replacement you can afford. When you use it, notice its simple elegance.

40 Finish off a to-do list. Set reasonable goals so that by the end of your work week, you can complete all your tasks. When 'Friday comes, feel the weight of worry, lift off your shoulders.

41 Personalize gifts. Whenever you buy a book or frame a picture for someone else, write a kind note to the recipient on the flap or the back.

42 Honor your appetite. Eat no snacks today. When dinnertime comes, you'll truly appreciate the tastes, smells, and textures of your meal.

43 Learn elementary botany. Buy a book to show you how to differentiate between types of evergreens and deciduous trees. When you recognize all the trees in your neighborhood, you'll feel closer to nature.

44 Answer slowly. Take a deep breath before responding to a question from anyone, whether it's your boss, your mother, or your lover. Chances are you'll say something smarter (and kinder).

45 See the sun daily. The sun's rays may encourage your body to produce natural chemicals that induce joy. (For more information, see "Guilt-Free Sunbathing," page 54.)

46 Do the Twist. This dance style is fun, silly, and easy, and it will make you laugh.

47 Bake cookies. And bring them to work.

48 Get active instead of watching TV. Exercise that increases your heartbeat improves your mood. Those benefits apply to the whole family. So instead of watching a video, jump rope with your kids or chase them around a playground.

49 Make time to prioritize. If you have three nonstop days in a row, take one hour on the fourth day to list all your obligations, and then eliminate the least important tasks. Even if your load is still heavy, you'll feel in much greater control.

50 Throw a theme party. Invite friends over to a "blue dinner" (blue corn chips and salsa, blue potato gratin, blueberry pie) or any fete of your own creation. Themes put guests at ease and are fun to plan.

The Inadvertant Mudra

2007-05-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

I became suddenly aware today that my hand went into
this position as a natural resting state.
Not sure if it's a yogic sign or not!

Yoga for the Eyes and Nose

2007-04-22T22:53:00.000-07:00

How I practice Eye Yoga:

Fortunately for me, I am in the habit of doing eye yoga during the day. I take a few moments as I sit in a comfortable position, breathing in my nose and out my mouth, making sure to let the air force in the back of the throat, the result of which ends up making an "ocean" noise, similar to waves crashing on the shore, all the while my eyes are closed.

I then open my eyes, and gently but intentionally move my eyes clockwise, envisioning a clock in front of me, making sure my eyes stretch to each point on the clock face. Once I get to twelve, I close my eyes, take a deep breath and upon releasing that breath, open my eyes, and start the same process, counter clock wise. I then close my eyes.

Taking in another deep breath and upon releasing that breath, I open my eyes and fixate on the horizon, dead ahead. I move my eyes first north, then back to the horizon and close my eyes. Deep inhale, and upon exhale, open my eyes and fixate on horizon dead ahead and then move my eyes south, then back to the horizon, and close my eyes. Deep inhale, and upon exhale, I open my eyes and fixate on the horizon dead ahead and then move my eyes east, then back to the horizon, and close my eyes. Deep inhale, and upon exhale, I open my eyes and fixate on the horizon dead ahead and then move my eyes west, then back to horizon, and close my eyes.

Taking in a deep breath and upon releasing that breath, I open my eyes and fixate on the horizon dead ahead. I then move my eyes north, taking a breath with eyes open and upon exhale, I move my eyes south, taking a breath I move my eyes back to the horizon and close them as I exhale. I repeat this method by taking a deep breath inhale, and upon exhaling, I open my eyes and fixate on the horizon dead ahead. I then move my eyes east, taking a breath with eyes open and upon exhale, I move my eyes west. Taking a deep inhale, and upon exhaling, I move my eyes back to the horizon and close them as I exhale.

With eyes closed, I then put my hands in "namaste" taking a deep breath inhale and upon exhale, I start to rub my hands together to generate warmth. Once my hands are comfortably and obviously warm, I press my palms to my closed eyes, gently, bathing my eyes in the warmth.

Doing this practice of eye yoga assists in keeping the retina strong and flexible, which is key for folks who have near-sightedness and stigmatism, since the eye is not perfectly round, and as it stretches to an oblongish shape to see, it puts undue strain on the optic nerve.

Yoga For the Sinuses:

Here is a great YouTube of a guy demonstrating with a neti pot. This is something I think I will get back into, as it's now allergy season, and I might make it a part of my evening bedtime rituals:

What is NOT shown is the mixing of sea salt and water (usually about 1/8th of a teaspoon of sea salt (non-iodized) to a full netipot full of tepid water. Dissolve it completely before irrigation. One must breathe through their mouth for this practice and should synchronize their inhales and exhales as the water runs from one nostril out the other. It should be repeated on the other nostril, despite the water moving from one to the other.

After the neti pot is emptied twice, once through each nostril, some down facing asanas (i.e. down facing dog) usually facilitate getting any residual water out of the nose.

This is a wonderful practice for people with dry sinuses, seasonal allergies, as well as those who frequent airline travel.

2007-04-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

PEACE AND WAR
from The Wanderer, Kahlil Gibran, 1932

Three dogs were basking in the sun and conversing. The first dog said
dreamily, "It is indeed wondrous to be living in this day of dogdom.
Consider the ease with which we travel under the sea, upon the earth and
even in the sky. And meditate for a moment upon the inventions brought
forth for the comfort of dogs, even for our eyes and ears and noses."

And the second dog spoke and he said, "We are more heedful of the arts.
We bark at the moon more rhythmically than did our forefathers. And when
we gaze at ourselves in the water we see that our features are clearer
than the features of yesterday."

Then the third dog spoke and said, "But what interests me most and
beguiles my mind is the tranquil understanding existing between
dogdoms."

At that very moment they looked, and lo, the dog-catcher was
approaching.

The three dogs sprang up and scampered down the street; and as they ran
the third dog said, "For God's sake, run for your lives. Civilization is
after us."

Surya Namaskaram

2007-04-16T07:17:00.001-07:00

It makes me peaceful just watching this... memorizing the movements... imagining my breathing if it were me doing these sun salutations...

Perfect For a Monday

2007-04-09T00:11:00.000-07:00

Just My Size: Yoga

2007-04-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

This came in the mail yesterday. I would have started it last night, but premiere episode of the sixth season of "The Shield" started last night, and I waited too long for it. Perhaps tonight I'll pop it in the DVD player and see how well it holds my attention and motivation.

A Rare Moment of Cuteness

2007-04-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

Ganked... I mean "borrowed with cosmic, karmic appreciation" from: I Can Has Cheezburger?

2007-03-30T00:03:00.000-07:00

Two Wolves

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, "My son, the battle is between two 'wolves' inside us all.

One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."

The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather, "Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

To Be Added to the Bookpile

2007-03-19T14:30:00.000-07:00

Yoga: Just My Size With Megan Garcia
Yoga For Chickens

Sahajah Yoga

2007-02-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

Note to self: Google Sahajah Yoga. Check to see if it's a cult, or on the up-and-up.

Sahaja Yoga

Being Resolute With Resolutions

2007-01-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

Can't believe I didn't post this one! I had it all queued up and ready to go, and I forgot about it. So much for being resolute!

Go in for sleep study, get CPAP, and finally address my apnea and snoring.
Be more regular or diligent with attending at least one yoga class per week.
Attend a church. Any church, whether it be Episcopalian, Church of Christ/Congregational or Quaker. Make a move! Any move! Remove myself from my firm and fast position of being "on the fence."
Organize the house

So far I've organized the closet in my den. Now how about the rest of the home? Who knows!

I've also called to inquire about whether the local hospital's sleep study program accepts our insurance, and they do. So all I need to do now is get Rx's for both my husband and myself so we can go and get our snoring (and my apnea) checked out!

I have been in contact with at least two Episcopalian priests online, one of whom has mentioned how the church is elastic enough for someone like me--curious... questioning, etc. Who knows how this will end up.

As far as the yoga... I'm trying to do things to improve my karma... which is a form of yoga. Red Scarf Project... FreePledge...

Bonus: I stumbled across this mantra:

OM
MA
NI
PAD
ME
HUM

Let's see how the rest of January goes, without worrying about the rest of 2007.

A new year, full of new neuroses!

Christmas, Desi Style

2006-12-23T17:42:00.000-08:00

More on Karma

2006-12-19T21:41:00.000-08:00

Still have to drop off my toy for Toys for Tots (and hope I didn't miss out on it)
Just now finished up the last of my holiday parcels, and hope they get to their recipients on time.
Just now finished packing up the gift bags for the local women's shelter. I was able to put together eight bags of body gels and toiletries, and assorted things (a hand made scarf in one, a handmade soap sack for another), a bottle of "Passion" I got as a gift and never used (never even took out of the box). Each bag is different, each contains an assortment of sweets, and I hope help someone getting a new start in life. 25 Beds in the women's shelter, not sure how many are occupied. Hoping that it's a small number so no one gets neglected.
Extra toothbrushes and bars of soap to get dropped off at church to be added in additional toiletry bags for both, the men's and women's shelters.
Went to Sam's tonight to get 3 big sacks of styrofoam plates for the soup kitchen (each bag is 175 styro plates). Will drop that off tomorrow (hopefully) along with the boxes of black pepper.
Got baby card for a child someone is mentoring, who at the age of 14 is a new mother now.

'Tis The Season For Karma Yoga

2006-12-12T13:53:00.000-08:00

"Ohm ohm ohm ohm ohm ohm, ohm ohm ohm." [fa la la la la la la la la]

One scarf crocheted for Red Scarf Project, waiting packaging.
One nice toy purchased for Toys for Tots, awaiting drop off.
Bath gels and assorted toiletries gifts to be bundled up and regifted to the local women's shelter.
Need to stop off at Sam's to pick up black pepper and styro plates for local soup kitchen.

[Insert Witty Title Here]

2006-11-29T07:52:00.000-08:00

I've decided to create yet another blog. I doubt if other folks read my other blogs, but I do it as a means of compartmentalizing and organizing my thoughts and different facets of my life. However, if folks read all of my blogs, I think they would get a bigger picture of the person behind the text... the person behind the perverse sense of humor, etc.

Not sure how much I will post to this blog. Today is the first day of its existence.

I set it up as a means to document and examine my physical and spiritual journey through yoga, religious exploration [intensely interested in Quakerism, though my "Belief-o-Matic" on Beliefnet came up as 100% Unitarian, and I'm struggling to see how I can possibly remain Episcopalian--the religion of my birth & baptism as an infant], and how it all affects my body, my weight, my mind, my depression, and how I relate to others.