A Joyful Practice

Playing with the little puppy, the big green monster, a cow, a cat, dad, mama’s little duckling, a Hanukkah bear, a croc & a turtle II (Should I offer a so big [apology — & some magic] if your emotions are up & down because it’s still mostly just the music… & another title, again?) [the First Friday Night Special #71 Invitation] September 4, 2026

Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone observing a fast; offering prayers on Leil Selichot; and/or awakening friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside).

Stay safe! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.

Please join me (TONIGHT) Friday, September 4, 2026, 7:15 PM – 8:20 PM (CST) for “A Little Playtime, A Little Rest Time… (for the mind)”.

This Restorative Yoga practice  (with a little movement) is accessible and open to all.

(NOTE: There will be a little bit of quiet space in this practice.)

Friday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “09062024 The Art of Moving Maintenance”]

NOTE: You can start with Track #1 or #2. The YouTube playlist includes “Pirsig’s Pursuit” by Chris Foster, which I did not find on Spotify. The Spotify playlist has an extra track from the original playlist.

Prop wise, this is a kitchen sink practice and I will suggest using blankets, bolsters, and/or blocks during the practice. You can practice without props or use “studio” props and/or “householder” props. Example of Commercial props: 1 – 2 blankets, 2 – 3 blocks, a bolster, a strap, and an eye pillow. Example of Householder props: 1 – 2 blankets or bath towels, 2 – 3 books (similar in size), 2 standard pillows (or 1 body pillow), a belt/tie/sash, and a face towel.

You may want extra layers (as your body may cool down during this practice). Having a wall, chair, sofa, or coffee table may be handy throughout this practice.

Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.

If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.

White Flag is an app, which I have not researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.

If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).

In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).

Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.

Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.

You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!

September 25 — 27, 2026

LIMITED SPACE FOR HOTEL DISCOUNTS!

9/4/2026: Revised with correct invitation number.

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