A Quick [REVISED] Note & EXCERPT: “Fourth Step: Once More, With Feeling” October 27, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Loss, Love, Men, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Poetry, Suffering, Tragedy, TV, Wisdom, Women, Writing, Yoga.Tags: Brújula Intersexual (Intersex Compass), Dylan Thomas, intersex, Laura Inter, literature, Nyanasatta Thera, poem, Poetry, pranayama, Ronald Reagan, Satipattthana Sutta, Sylvia Plath, Theodore Roosevelt, Writing
add a comment
Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy; and may everyone recognize their whole self.
The following is a slightly revised version of a previously posted note and excerpt.
“Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light”
— quoted from the poem “Do not go gentle into that good night” by Dylan Thomas (b. 1914)
There are a lot of noteworthy things related to this date in history — including the fact that Laura Inter founded Brújula Intersexual (Intersex Compass), “a Mexican organization that works with intersex people, activists, and communities in Mexico, Latin America, and Spain”, today in 2013. All of the things, even the ones not mentioned in the practice and/or the excerpt below, are related to how we live our lives (i.e., how we spend our time) and how we interact with each other during the limited time that we have together.
The hope is that we can respect each other, be kind, and hold space for what each of us experiences on any given day. The hope is that each of us will step into the arena and co-create a world where all our hearts can shine and [sing].
“I took a deep breath and listened to the old bray of my heart: I am, I am, I am.”
or
“I took a deep breath and listened to the old brag of my heart: I am, I am, I am.”
— quoted from two different editions of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath (b. 1932)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELORE FOR MORE.
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
— quoted “The Man in the Arena” portion of the “Citizenship in a Republic” speech (delivered April 23, 1910, Sorbonne, Paris) by former President Theodore Roosevelt (b. 1858)
Please join me today (Tuesday, October 27th) at 12:00 Noon or 7:15 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10272021 Another Appointment EVE”]
NOTE: Over the last few years, we have used several different playlists on this date. If you are using a recording, double check the playlist date.
“You and I are told increasingly we have to choose between a left or right. Well I’d like to suggest there is no such thing as a left or right. There’s only an up or down: [up] man’s old – old-aged dream, the ultimate in individual freedom consistent with law and order, or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism. And regardless of their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who would trade our freedom for security have embarked on this downward course.”
— quoted from the 1964 “A Time for Choosing” speech by Ronald Reagan
If you are struggling, 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.
“And further, monks, as if a monk sees a body dead…, he then applies this perception to his own body thus: ‘Verily, also my own body is of the same nature; such it will become and will not escape it.’
Thus he lives contemplating the body in the body internally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body externally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body internally and externally. He lives contemplating origination-factors in the body, or he lives contemplating dissolution factors in the body, or he lives contemplating origination-and-dissolution-factors in the body. Or his mindfulness is established with the thought: ‘The body exists,’ to the extent necessary just for knowledge and mindfulness, and he lives detached, and clings to nothing in the world. Thus also, monks, a monk lives contemplating the body in the body.”
— quoted from Satipatthana Sutta (The Foundations of Mindfulness) translated by Nyanasatta Thera
ERRATA: The original title erroneously described this as a Monday post-practice post. (rev. 11/02/2026)
### CONTINUE TO BREATHE ###
FTWMI (repost): A Quick Note & Excerpt About Breathing and…. October 26, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Donate, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma Yoga, Life, Meditation, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Science, Suffering, Tragedy, Vipassana, Volunteer, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Amnesty International, Betsy Driver, breath, breathing, Emi Koyama, gender, haṭha yoga, hatha yoga, Health, intersex, Intersex Awareness Day, Intersex Day of Remembrance, Intersex Solidarity Day, Laura Inter, Max Beck, meditation, Mindfulness, Morgan Carpenter PhD, Morgan Holmes PhD, Nyanasatta Thera, pranayama, sex, United Nations, yoga
add a comment
Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom on Intersex Awareness Day.
May everyone be healthy and strong; may everyone be peaceful and happy; and may everyone recognize their whole self.
For Those Who Missed It: the following post-practice post for Monday, October 26th, was previously posted. The 2026 prompt question was, “When do you feel most comfortable in your body?” (e.g., at a certain time of day/night or in your life or after or before certain activities/events) You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
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.
“[A monk] then applies this perception to his own body thus: ‘Verily, also my own body is of the same nature; such it will become and will not escape it.’
Thus he lives contemplating the body in the body internally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body externally, or he lives contemplating the body in the body internally and externally. He lives contemplating origination-factors in the body, or he lives contemplating dissolution factors in the body, or he lives contemplating origination-and-dissolution-factors in the body. Or his mindfulness is established with the thought: ‘The body exists,’ to the extent necessary just for knowledge and mindfulness, and he lives detached, and clings to nothing in the world. Thus also, monks, a monk lives contemplating the body in the body.”
— quoted from Satipatthana Sutta (The Foundations of Mindfulness) translated by Nyanasatta Thera
Prāņāyāma — the awareness of breath (and the extension of breath) — is a big part of the physical practice of yoga (haṭha yoga, regardless of the style or tradition). As we bring awareness to our breath, on and off the mat, we may start to notice the things that take our breath away. We can experience things that take our breath away because they are surprising and beautiful. We can experience things that take our breath away because they are surprising and terrifying. Then there are things that take our breath away because they are just surprising, unexpected….
We may rush to qualify them with some adjective or another and, in doing so, rush to some conclusion about what we need to do… when, really, we just need to breathe (that’s today’s first step); recognize what is (that’s today’s second step); and repeat the first two steps (that’s the third step).
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR THE RELATED POST (& VIDEO).
For Those Who Missed It: Third Step: Repeat the First & Second Steps
“Myth 2: Being intersex is very rare
According to experts, around 1.7% of the population is born with intersex traits – comparable to the number of people born with red hair.”
— quoted from the Amnesty International article “Its Intersex Awareness Day – here are 5 myths we need to shatter”
October 26th is Intersex Awareness Day, which highlights and raises awareness about human rights issues faced by intersex people. It also raises awareness around the fact that there are people — all around the world — who are born with one or more sex characteristics that “do not fit typical binary notions of male or female bodies.” According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, these characteristics include chromosome patterns, gonads, and/or genitalia.
While there may be just as many people in the world with red hair as there are people in the world with intersex traits, the latter are not as easy to spot. Estimates on how many people are born with intersex traits may vary (depending on the traits and/or conditions) from 3% to 0.0009%. Aside from the fact that I’m referencing statistics related to over 40 intersex conditions, the wide variation in estimates is related to the fact that some people are not initially identified (medically) as intersex. Additionally, some people may never be identified as intersex. Lack of diagnosis can be the result of something relatively small — like the fact that a baby’s chromosome patterns (and/or gonads) are not typically tested. However, lack of diagnosis can also be the result of something fairly major — like the fact that sex (and gender) are typically assigned at birth based on the external appearance of a baby’s genitals.
And, here’s the kicker: If a baby’s genitalia appears ambiguous (to a medical practitioner) and/or atypical, a common practice has been to surgically alter the genitalia. Sometimes, even a baby’s internal sex organs (gonads) will be altered. Again, these surgeries and medical treatments happen to babies, as well as to children and young adults, who are too young to consent and/or may not be informed about their options. Sometimes, even their parents are not informed!
Medical attitudes and practices related to people with intersex characteristics are changing, in part because of people like Morgan Holmes and Max Beck, who both participated in the first public demonstration of intersex people (and their allies) in North America, today in 1996. Dr. Holmes (a Canadian sociologist) and Mr. Beck (who died in of cancer in 2008) attended the American Academy of Pediatrics annual conference in Boston, Massachusetts, with the intention of delivering a presentation on the long-term outcomes of “fixing” intersex infants through cosmetic surgery. However, they were met with what they described as “hostility” and escorted out of the venue. They later returned, outside of the venue, to demonstrate and advocate for better medical awareness. In 2003/2004, Betsy Driver (who was mayor of Flemington, New Jersey, January 2, 2019 – January 3, 2023) and artist and activist Emi Koyama organized the first official Intersex Awareness Day on the anniversary of that first public protest. Since then, people like Morgan Carpenter and Laura Inter have advocated for self-determination, while also providing peer support and education for and about people who have intersex traits.
For the next two weeks — up until November 8th, which is Intersex Day of Remembrance (also known as Intersex Solidarity Day) — grassroots organizations around the world will host events related to intersex visibility. Some of these events will be celebrations and opportunities for networking. Some of these events will be moments of reflection and remembrance. Some of these events will be all about political action and advocacy. All of these events will be about putting an “end [to] shame, secrecy and unwanted genital cosmetic surgeries on intersex children.”
“The flag is comprised of a golden yellow field, with a purple circle emblem. The colours and circle don’t just avoid referencing gender stereotypes, like the colours pink and blue, they seek to completely avoid use of symbols that have anything to do with gender at all. Instead the circle is unbroken and unornamented, symbolising wholeness and completeness, and our potentialities. We are still fighting for bodily autonomy and genital integrity, and this symbolises the right to be who and how we want to be.”
— quoted from the creator statement entitled “The intersex flag” by Morgan Carpenter, PhD.
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.
If you are struggling, 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).
### O ###
EXCERPT: “Gazing into Our Self (again)” October 24, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Meditation, One Hoop, Religion, Science, Tragedy, Yoga.Tags: 988, Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, Harry Houdini, meditation, Samyama, svadyaya, svādhyāya
add a comment
Many blessings to everyone. Peace within you; peace all around you; peace to and from everything and everyone you encounter.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“People who look for the first time through a microscope say now I see this and then I see that and even a skilled observer can be fooled. On these observations I’ve spent more time than many will believe, but I’ve done them with joy, and I’ve taken no notice those who have said why take so much trouble and what good is it?”
— Antonie van Leeuwenhoek (b. 1632)
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, known as the “Father of Microbiology, was born today in 1632.
The internationally acclaimed Harry Houdini performed his last show today in 1926.
Click on the excerpt title below to learn what they have in common with Friedrich Nietzsche, James Randi, Yoga Sūtra 1.39, and the practice of svādhyāyā (“self-study”).
Please join me today (Saturday, October 24th) at 12:00 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10202020 Pratyahara”]
If you are struggling, 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.
### LOOKING AT YOU(RSELF)! ###
Celebrate Your Wins, Give Yourself a (Little) Break… & Sing About Your Stuff (the “missing” Sunday compilation) October 18, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Philosophy, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Women, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, apotheosis, chakras, Hero's Journey, Joseph Campbell, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Lalleshwari, Mahagauri, monomyth, Navaratri, Ntozake Shange, Ranjit Hoskote, Restorative, Sharada Navaratri, story, storytellers, Texas Instruments, water
add a comment
“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone sharing their stories about friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This “missing” compilation post for Sunday, October 18th, (and the eighth day of Navaratri) includes new content and excerpts. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
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.
“…we must learn our common symbols,
preen them
and share them with the world.”
— quoted from the preface to for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf by Ntozake Shange
Once upon a time, people only knew the stories of the people and the places in their lands. The stories might have had similar outlines, but the details were different. The symbols and signs were different. As people travelled, as populations expanded, stories were shared. But, there were still a limited amount of stories being told in any given area — and, in some areas, only certain storytellers (telling stories about certain people) were celebrated.
Technology changed all that.
Today, many people have the ability to read, hear, and/or watch stories from all over the world. More importantly, more people than ever before are able to share their stories. While you might have immediately thought about the internet or a computer or even a television, the technology I was referencing was the radio. But, not just any radio: a “pocket-sized” transistor radio.
The first commercial transistor radio, introduced today in 1954, created the opportunity for more stories to be told to more people. Ntozake Shange, the award-winning playwright and novelist who was born today in 1948, told some stories that had never been shared on a global stage… stories about women.
“somebody/anybody
sing a black girl’s song
bring her out
to know herself
to know you
but sing her rhythms
carin/struggle/hard times”
— The Lady in Brown with all the other Ladies from for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf by Ntozake Shange
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR THEIR STORIES!
“I found god in myself
and i loved her
i loved her fiercely”
— All the Ladies from for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf by Ntozake Shange
Joseph Campbell described seventeen stages in the monomyth or Hero’s Journey. In some ways, the tenth stage (Apotheosis) marks the beginning of the end. The heroine is still in a different world and there can still be a lot of adventure left. In fact, some have said that the hardest and most challenging part of the journey is still ahead. However, some of the major battles have been fought, trials and tribulations have been overcome, and there is some resolution… as well as some resolve on the part of the hero.
The word “apotheosis” comes from Late Latin, meaning “deification”. Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as “the perfect form or example of something: quintessence” and “the highest or best part of something: peak”. There is a religious component to the apotheosis — one that plays out quite a bit in religious art. However, different religions have different theology around whether or not someone can actually become deified or whether they can simply become more god-like. Either way, the process often involves a metaphorical, spiritual, and/or physical death… and rebirth.
In the stories related to Navaratri, there is a moment of rebirth and renewal that is related to the eighth manifestation of Durga/Pavarti and the inspiration for the eighth step in our journey: Take a moment to renew yourself and celebrate your wins!
“New mind, new moon.
I’ve seen the great ocean made new.”
“Ever since I’ve scoured my body and mind,
I, Lalla, have been as new as new can be!”
— Poem 117, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
The following description related to the eighth day of Navaratri is a revised and (slightly) expanded excerpt.
Today was the eighth night/day of Navaratri, the Hindu celebration of God as a woman. The penultimate manifestation of Durga/Parvati is known as Mahagauri, the one of “great purity”. She is the mother Goddess who slays the demon-king. Remember, each of the nine manifestations of Durga represent Her at a different point in her life/journey. By the time we get to the eighth manifestation, Parvati is already married — but the demons can only be killed by a virgin. Obviously, she can not go back; she has to go forward in order to prepare herself for battle.
In some versions of her story, she practices tapas, prays, and makes offerings. At one point, she bathes in the Ganges River, one of the sacred rivers in India, and emerges with the rosy glow of youth. She is depicted in art with three eyes and four arms; riding a white bull; and carrying a trident and a damaru (a small hand drum) in her upper hands, while her lower hands form the “stop the ignorance”, mudra (which is also a seal of “fearlessness”) and the mudra associated with offering/ receiving a blessing. Both the trident and the drum are associated with power and Shiva, and the hand that is offering/receiving a blessing is also holding japamala (or meditation) beads. She is sometimes associated with the color pink, as a symbol of hope and optimism.
In parts of India, people begin their eighth day by making pūjā or offerings of flowers to celebrate her wisdom, beauty, and ability to bring peace. Then they get ready for the final celebrations. As I have mentioned before, this fourth celebration of Navaratri is the largest and leads directly into a related celebration on the tenth day.
For some people, this festival is also preparation for Diwali — which is another celebration with epic stories about a great adventure full of trials and tribulations, victories and defeats, healing and homecoming.
“I was missing something
something so important
something promised
a laying on of hands
fingers near my forehead
strong
cool
moving
making me whole
sense pure
all the gods coming into me
laying me open to myself
I was missing something
something promised
something free
a laying on of hands”
— quoted from for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf by Ntozake Shange
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10182026 STILL Singing Bout OUR Stuff”]
If you are struggling, 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).
###
Water is Nourishing, Healing, & Purifying!
Water is Life!
###
Action, (In)Action, & Doing It Differently (the “missing” Saturday compilation) October 17, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 9-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Mala, Meditation, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Bhagavad Gita, Donna Garrett, Gospel According to St. John, Hero's Journey, International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, John O'Donohue, Joseph Campbell, Joseph Wresinski, Kalaratri, Kali, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Lalleshwari, monomyth, Navaratri, Oregon, Sharada Navaratri, Yoga Sutra 1.5, Yoga Sutra 2.3-2.9
add a comment
“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This “missing” compilation post for Saturday, October 17th, (and the seventh day of Navaratri) includes new content and excerpts. This post and the related practice include passing references to current events and violence. However, this post does not include any explicit details. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
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.
“The sun beneath the navel was made to burn.
When the breath, rising there, flows through the throat,
It comes out long and burns.
But when it meets the moon river flowing from the crown,
It comes out short and cools.”
— Poem 54, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
There are times when it seems hard to know what to do and what to say. There are times when there are just no words… and nothing you do seems to have an immediate effect. And, I’m not going to lie: Sometimes the best thing — and the only thing — you can do is show up, be still, and be quiet.
Sit and breathe. Breathe and sit, with the awareness that you are sitting and breathing. Notice how the inhale is cooler than the exhale. Notice how the exhale is warmer than the inhale. Notice how your body extends and expands as you inhale; how it settles back into itself and into your support as you exhale.
This is the practice. It is a simple practice and, also, a powerful practice.
It is a practice that begins with the breath: that symbol of our life force, that symbol of our spirt.
“What the books taught me, I’ve practised.
What they didn’t teach me, I’ve taught myself.
I’ve gone into the forest and wrestled with the lion.
I didn’t get this far by teaching one thing and doing another.”
— Poem 111, as printed in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
At any given time, on any given day, people all over the world are at the beginning, the middle, or the end of this same practice. They may sit in a different way and/or move in and out of different poses; but, all over the world — including in Bend, Oregon, as we did a few weeks ago (in some of the same spaces and with some of the teachers), people will turn to a mindfulness-based practice as a way to cope with tragedy, find clarity, and (eventually) as a way to heal.
A mindfulness-based practice can be powerful and healing when you do it for yourself and, also, when you physically (and/or emotionally and energetically) sit with people who have experienced a great and horrific tragedy. Sometimes people just need to know that you are present, holding space for and sitting with their suffering. That is one way to practice with compassion and lovingkindness.
There is a time and a place when this is what is needed.
The thing to remember is that, no matter how you do it, this is a practice of action and inaction. It is also a practice “in action”. As powerful as the practice is, on the mat and on the cushion, the real power comes from what we do (and/or don’t do) when we move off the mat and off the cushion.
“It is far more creative to work with the idea of mindfulness rather than the idea of will. Too often people try to change their lives by using the will as a kind of hammer to beat their lives into proper shape. This way of approaching the sacredness of one’s own presence is externalist and violent. It brings you falsely outside yourself, and you can spend years lost in the wilderness of your own mechanical, spiritual programs. You can perish in a famine of your own making. If you work with a different rhythm, you will come easily and naturally home to yourself. Your soul knows the geography of your destiny. Your soul alone has the map of your future, therefore you can trust this indirect, oblique side of yourself. If you do, it will take you where you need to go, but more important it will teach you a kindness of rhythm in your journey. There are no general principles for this art of being. Yet the signature of this unique journey is inscribed deeply in each soul. If you attend to yourself and seek to come into your presence, you will find exactly the right rhythm for your life.”
— quoted from Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom by John O’Donohue
This practice begins with the breath and our breath establishes our rhythm. Sometimes, however, we need to change things up. We can change things up by changing our breath pattern and/or by changing the shapes in which we breathe (i.e., the poses). Doing the same sequence again and again and again, gives us the opportunity to see changes happening in real time, over time. It can also be comforting, especially in times of uncertainty. On the flip side, changing the sequence up sometimes allows us to gain new insight and/or break old habits.
Either way of practicing can help us break up stagnate energy and push us out of (either kind of) inertia. In other words, either way of practicing can be healing and can create opportunities for us to do things differently — even when it seems impossible.
“Do it differently
So it won’t come out the same
Step up, be strong,
Get yourself out of pain.
So you don’t have a clue
Damned if you don’t
Damned if you do
Make yourself happy by checking with you
Before you make a move
To do what someone else wants you to do.
Take your time
Don’t be pressured
Know your mind
This is behavior you have never practiced before”
— quoted from the poem “DIFFERENTLY” by Donna Garrett
Click on the excerpt title below for a date-related 2021 post.
“We must be willing to get rid of the life we’ve planned, so as to have the life waiting for us. The old skin has to be shed before the new one can come.”
— quoted from A Joseph Campbell Companion: Reflections on the Art of Living by Joseph Campbell
This is the practice. It is a simple practice and, also, a powerful practice.
Every practice is also a journey.
This past Sunday, we started a special 9-day journey inspired by Navaratri. Additionally, the Saturday practices are their own independent journey. The Saturday journeys are driven by philosophy, specific sequencing, and an intention. The 2026 intention includes a focus on aligning action and, also, on releasing what no longer serves us. Sometimes, that release is automatic; like an exhale or the natural shedding of hair. Other times, however, we have to be very deliberate, very intentional, and very honest about what is not working.
The process of letting go of what no longer serves us is the seventh step in our journey. It requires being honest with ourselves. It is also a little scary; because change, in general, can be scary. Remember, fear of loss or death is the final afflicted or dysfunctional thought pattern that leads to suffering. (YS 1.5, 2.3, and 2.9) Even knowing that, we can find comfort in the familiar and fear the unknown.
Thankfully, we have reached the point in our 9-day journey that is connected to fearlessness.
A version of the following (revised) excerpt was previously posted. Some links and date-related information has been updated/added.
“I find a lot of similarity between Goddess Kalaratri, who symbolizes the spiritual power of transcendence, and Goddess Chandraghanta, who represents the power of transformation (in chapter 3). While transformation happens from taking strong, consistent action to overcome our fears, transcendence results from applying spiritual knowledge to see traumas we have experienced through the eyes of wisdom. This ensures we never see ourselves as helpless victims at the mercy of a cruel world but rather as powerful manifesters of our own destinies.”
— quoted from the “Cultivating Transcendence” section of “Chapter 7 — Transcending Trauma with Wisdom” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Today (Saturday) was also the seventh day of Navaratri, the Hindu festival of “nine nights” celebrating divine feminine energy in various manifestations. This seventh day of Navaratri is dedicated to Kalaratri, the most ferocious form of Durga/Parvati. I will admit that I sometimes have a hard time with elements of the Divine that show up as ferocious. However, I appreciate that sometimes strong, fierce energy/medicine is needed to eliminate negative energy — and this is why Kalaratri is so strong: She eliminates negativity.
Some believe that Kalaratri destroys all demons, ghosts, evil spirits just be showing up. She is associated with nighttime (which is when plants grow) and the crown chakra (which is this present moment). Her name is sometimes used interchangeably with Kali, who is the dark-skinned Goddess associated with destruction, time, and change. In one story, she sheds her skin in order to win a battle.
Because people believe she can give her devotees siddhis (“abilities”) like knowledge, power, and wealth, she is also known as Shubankari (“Auspicious”). People also believe Kalaratri can make someone fearless.
Of course, being fearless comes in handy if you want to bring about some “good” changes in the world — especially when you are committed to non-violence.
“Despite Goddess Kalaratri’s frightening appearance, I find her to be the most loving form of Goddess Durga because she removes everything that is not us: the illusions, lies, and myths we have subscribed to (without even knowing we have done so!). Because only when we are free from illusions are we truly free. This goddess brings the Gospel of John to life: ‘And you shall know the Truth, and that Truth shall set you free.’
Vedanta spiritual philosophy describes Truth, to be true, must be so at all times: past, present, and future.”
— quoted from the “Cultivating Transcendence” section of “Chapter 7 — Transcending Trauma with Wisdom” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10172021 Do It, But Differently”]
NOTE: This playlist contains Easter eggs! Did you find them. The three birthday ones are stacked together — and one is actually a double. But there’s one I don’t always mention in the practice. (They are all related to the date, and the theme, but don’t be surprised if you notice there’s one or two that are obviously missing.)
If you are struggling, 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).
### “Wherever men and women are condemned to live in extreme poverty, human rights are violated. To come together to ensure that these rights be respected is our solemn duty.” — Joseph Wresinski, Text Engraved on Original Commemorative Stone [for the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty] in Paris, France ###
A Little Compassion, A Little Loving-Kindness October 15, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Buddhism, Healing Stories, Love, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Suffering, Tragedy, Yoga.Tags: 988, compassion, Karuna, lovingkindness, Metta, Navaratri, Sharada Navaratri
add a comment
NOTE: Click here if you are looking for the next two steps in our Navaratri journey.
My heart goes out to the people in (and around) Bend, Oregon, and especially to the those associated with Silver Rail Elementary School. No one should experience such a horrifying and heartbreaking tragedy.
All I can offer, in this moment, is a little compassion and a little lovingkindness. To the people of Bend and to all the families touched by gun violence and terrorism:
“I see your suffering
I care about your suffering
May you be free of suffering
May the causes and conditions of your suffering end.”
— Karuna/Compassion meditation
Metta/Lovingkindness Meditation
“May you be safe and protected
May you be peaceful and happy
May you be healthy and strong
May you have ease and well-being.”
— Metta/Lovingkindness meditation
If you are struggling, 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).
### PEACE IN / PEACE OUT ###
The Next Step is Part of Getting Ready (the post-practice Monday compilation) October 12, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Faith, First Nations, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Mysticism, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Tragedy, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.Tags: 988, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Bramacharini, Bramcharya, Canadian Thanksgiving, Christopher Columbus, First Nations, Gregorian calendar, Indigenous Peoples, Journey, Lal Dĕd, Lalla, Native, Navaratri, Ranjit Hoskote, Second Monday in October, Sharada Navaratri, tapas, Will Joyner
add a comment
“Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom on Canadian Thanksgiving and the second Monday in October.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This post-practice compilation post for Monday, October 12th, includes new content and a series of excerpts. The 2026 prompt question was, “What is something you always do when you are getting ready to start something big and what is something you could do more often when you are getting ready to start something big?” You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
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.
“I trapped my breath in the bellows of my throat:”
— quoted from poem 42 in I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
This year, for nine days, we are taking a journey. Anyone can take this journey and we could start this journey at any time. I am suggesting it now for a few reasons. First, we are still in the middle of those “lagniappe” or extra days that were skipped, in 1582, as papal-governed countries switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. Another reason I am making this suggestion now is because today (Monday) was the second day of Navaratri (“nine nights”).
This is a yoga journey, in that it is intended to bring us closer to “a previously unattainable goal”. Even if your goal and desire is related to something you are continuing to day, it requires taking things step-by-step.
The first step is knowing where (and who) you are and where you are going. The second step is doing the things you do when you are getting ready to do something big. One of the things I do is take a deep breath in and a deeper breath out. Sometimes I do that in a stationary position; sometimes I move between positions. Either way, I start with a little bit of yoga.
Just like the first step, this second step is inspired by a manifestation of divine feminine energy who is celebrated during the nine days and nine nights of Navaratri.
The following description related to the second day of Navaratri is excerpted from previous posts.
“While this may sound like an extreme–and even scary–story, I don’t see it as the tale of a goddess who gave up everything to marry a god. Instead, I understand it as the story of a Truth seeker who gave up all distractions to merge with the ultimate Truth.”
— quoted from the “Knowing BRAHMACHARINI” section of “Chapter 2: Channeling Your Energy — Channeling Your Energy (when you’re feeling excited) with Goddess Brahmacharini, the one who follows brahmacharya (the path of self-control)” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals To Awaken Your Inner Warrior And Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Yesterday was also the beginning of Sharada Navaratri, the most celebrated of the four Navaratri festivals. Navaratri literally means “nine nights” and is a Hindu celebration of God / the Divine as a woman. Each day is dedicated to a different manifestation of Durga/Parvati and each manifestation marks a different point in Her journey. Today, the second day, is dedicated to the Goddess Brahmacharini (“Unmarried One”), who is also Yogini. Both of her names highlight her path.
A yogini is a woman who practices yoga. Brahmacharini shares a root with the fourth yama (external “restraint” or universal commandment), brahmacharya, which can be translated as following in the steps of God or “chasing God” — or even that the devotee is riding in God’s “chariot”. All of these translations are associated with the life of someone who is deeply invested in their religious and spiritual life. In art, Brahmacharini has all the symbols of an ascetic: bare feet, a mala (rosary) and a kamandalu (water pot). Since people consider her a symbol of bliss and calmness, some pray to her for moksha (“liberation” from suffering), peace, and prosperity.
People also believe Brahmacharini can endow them with strong concentration and self-control. In fact, her story is full of the great challenges associated with the austerity she practices in order to achieve her goal of marriage. To me, she, herself, is liminal in that she is the embodiment of the auspicious moment between the goddess being identified as a daughter and the goddess being identified as a wife.
“The story of Brahmacharini and Shiva is not meant to be the story of a romantic relationship; Shiva is merely symbolic of the true Self. He is pure consciousness, the eternal soul, which we strive to merge with vis–à–vis the power of spiritual practice.”
— quoted from the “Knowing BRAHMACHARINI” section of “Chapter 2: Channeling Your Energy — Channeling Your Energy (when you’re feeling excited) with Goddess Brahmacharini, the one who follows brahmacharya (the path of self-control)” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals To Awaken Your Inner Warrior And Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
Each and every person on the planet (or a space station) “contain[s] multitudes” and experiences different seasons of life. At different stages in our lives, we are recognized in different ways. At different times in our lives we fulfill different roles. Each season and each role comes with different responsibilities and expectations, as well as with different skills, abilities, experiences, and powers.
Take a moment to recognize the path you are on; the journey that is your life; the season you are in; the roles you play; and the way you serve the world.
Take a moment to acknowledge that you can simultaneously experience excitement, anticipation, doubt, fear, hesitation, and joy every time you experience change.
Take a moment to do what you need to do to grieve and appreciate what is no longer and, also, to appreciate what is not yet — knowing that what is not yet is a possibility that could be or might never be.
Take a moment to remember that you and the things you do have meaning and are valuable.
Now, take a breath, exhale, and begin.
“I trapped my breath in the bellows of my throat:
a lamp blazed up inside, showed me who I really was.
I crossed the darkness holding fast to that lamp,
scattering its light-seeds around me as I went.”
— poem 42, quoted from I, Lalla: The Poems of Lal Dĕd by Lal Dĕd (Translated from the Kashmiri with an Introduction and Notes by Ranjit Hoskote)
Several holidays are observed in the United States and in Canada on the second Monday in October. Events that took place on October 12, 1492, are directly connected to one of those holidays (technically, some of those holidays) in the United States.
Click on the excerpt title below for some history you know and some history you may need to “unknow”.
“… all of us who feel we “know” a certain field—any field, whether scientific or not—should, it seems to me, regularly ponder what we don’t know, admit what we don’t know, and not turn away from what we don’t know…. Perhaps the chance for more civil discussion of these topics lies in our willingness to mark out our own areas of knowing and “unknowing,” to pay attention to one another’s areas of knowing and unknowing, and to proceed humbly together.”
— quoted from an Autumn 2006 Harvard Divinity Bulletin article entitled “Knowing and Unknowing” by Will Joyner
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices.
If you are struggling, 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).
### Breathe In / Breathe Out ###
At Least One More Time (just the blessings & music) October 7, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Books, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Loss, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Banned Books, Banned Books Week, World Space Week
add a comment
Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone nourishing their heart, body, and mind during World Space Week and Banned Books Week!
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate!
Please join me today (Wednesday, October 7th) at 4:30 PM or 7:15 PM for a yoga practice on Zoom. You can use the link from the “Class Schedules” calendar if you run into any problems checking into the class. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or by emailing myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10072026 One More Time (At Least)”]
If you are struggling, 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.
### 🎶 ###
Still Bending the Arc, in 2026 (the “missing” compilation post for Saturday) September 19, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Bhakti, Books, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Kirtan, Life, Mantra, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 4859, A. R. Rahman, Ganesh Chaturthi, Ganesha, Helena Marwood, High Holidays, Jarek Garliński, Khatija Rahman, Kirtan, Lyra Kadesh, Michael Schudrich, Modak, Norman Davies, Raheema Rahman, Righteous Among Nations, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sacred Couplets, Secret Polish Army, Shabbat Shuva, Ten Days of Atonement, Ten Days of Awe, the Commemoration of the Miracle of the Archangel Michael at Colossae (Chonae), Theodore Parker, Thirukkural, Tikkun Olam, Tomasz Serafiński, U2, Unetaneh Tokef, Witold Pilecki
add a comment
“Chag sameach!” to those observing the High Holidays (as well as Shabbat Shuva). “Many blessings,” to everyone and especially those celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi and/or the Commemoration of the Miracle of the Archangel Michael at Colossae (Chonae)!
This “missing” compilation post for Saturday, September 19th, includes the slightly revised beginning of a 2023 post and a series of excerpts. Some dated-related information, links, and formatting have been added/updated. You can request an audio recording of this practice via a comment below or (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
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.
“When marching along the gray road towards the tannery in a column raising clouds of dust, one saw the beautiful red light of the dawn shining on the white flowers in the orchards and on the trees by the roadside, or on the return journey we would encounter young couples out walking, breathing in the beauty of springtime, or women peacefully pushing their children in prams — then the thought uncomfortably bouncing around one’s brain would arise . . . swirling around, stubbornly seeking some solution to the insoluble question: Were we all . . . people?”
— quoted from The Auschwitz Volunteer: Beyond Bravery by Captain Witold Pilecki (Auschwitz Prisoner No. 4859), translated from Pilecki’s original 1945 Auschwitz Report by Jarek Garliński (with an Introduction by Norman Davies & a Forward by Michael Schudrich (Foreword)
It is all too easy to focus on our differences, but what happens when we focus on our similarities? What happens when we focus — or just take a moment to notice — the things we have in common? I think good things happen. I think it makes us more fully human and, possibly, more appreciative of what it means to human. This is why it always feels particularly auspicious when two or more completely different groups of people (from vastly different communities, faiths, and cultures) are celebrating and/or observing sacred times at the same time. It feels particularly notable (to me) when these “holy” times are the same length of time. Take right now, for instance, when two very different 10-day celebrations/observations are overlapping around the world.
Today is the eighth day of the High Holidays (and of the new year) according to the Hebrew calendar and, according to the Hindu calendar, today is the sixth day of Ganesh Chaturthi, the festival celebrating the birthday of Ganesha. I referred to these as “very different” — and it is true that the rituals, traditions, and faiths are different. However, underlying both holidays is something very human: a desire for new beginnings and less obstacles. Additionally, both observations require people to do something in preparation for the better days. Whether it is making an offering and/or offering (or asking for) forgiveness, these auspicious times require people to act. So, there is prayer, there is reflection, there is prayer, and there is a dissolution (or dissolving) or something.
In both cases there is also something sweet.
“Within Ganesha’s tradition, two materials are paramount: Modak and Durva grass.
These twin offerings embody the poles of a disciplined, joyful life. Modak, a crafted, cooked sweet, represents height—refinement, skill, sweetness earned by effort. Durva, a raw, resilient weed, represents depth—humility, endurance, and the patient coolness of Earth. Destiny is mastered by holding both capacities: the ability to create nuanced joy and the capacity to survive heat and hardship. Ganesha is Modakapriya—Lover of Joy—yet he is crowned by grass; the pairing is deliberate. It trains the devotee to be complete.”
— quoted from “Chapter 17 — Offerings of Power: Modak and Durva” in The Ganesha Protocol: Ritual Practice for Clarity and New Beginnings by Lyra Kadesh (edited by Helena Marwood)
Click on the links above or the excerpt titles below for more.
Get Ready… To Pace Yourself (a compilation of notes & excerpts)
New Years / New Habits (a post-practice compilation for Monday)
“… it is [usually] steamed, a union of water and fire, yielding firmness without brittleness. That firmness is discipline, the ethical frame and ego structure needed to navigate the world cleanly. Inside rests the puran—dark, lush sweetness— an anatomy lesson for the inner life. The teaching reverses a common mistake: many are soft and reactive outwardly, yet hard and resentful within. Modak urges the opposite—outer steadiness and inner tenderness. Keep the shape; offer sweetness.”
— quoted from the “The Modak: The Geometry of Joy” section of “Chapter 17 — Offerings of Power: Modak and Durva” in The Ganesha Protocol: Ritual Practice for Clarity and New Beginnings by Lyra Kadesh (edited by Helena Marwood)
Each time we repeat the 2026 sankalpa during the Saturday practices, we only say the word “actions” once. However, each part of the vow includes actions: “I trust”; “to align”; “release” all involve us to actively engage and do something. Even the concept of having “abilities” implies action.
An important part of the High Holidays, Ganesha Chaturthi, and a new season (which is also starting this weekend), is the idea that we can all do something little that makes a difference. Some, however, do big things that make a difference.
Click on the link above or the excerpt title below (and scroll down) for a description of Tikkun Olam.
Do You Want a Perfect Tuesday or a Good Tuesday? (the “missing” Tuesday compilation post)
“I do not pretend to understand the moral universe. The arc is a long one. My eye reaches but little ways. I cannot calculate the curve and complete the figure by experience of sight. I can divine it by conscience. And from what I see I am sure it bends toward justice.”
— quoted from an 1853 sermon by abolitionist and Unitarian minister Theodore Parker
For Those Who Missed It: The following is the 2023 excerpt (revised from a 2020 post).
Click here if you want to read the entire post, which is also a tribute to “The Notorious R. B. G.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg of the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS).
Calvary Captain Witold Pilecki (also known as Tomasz Serafiński) made such a big sacrifice and such a difference in the world that some believe he should be recognized by Yad Vashem (The World Holocaust Remembrance Center) as “Righteous Among Nations”. Today in 1940, he allowed himself to be captured by the Nazis. He did this in order to report the truth about what was going on in concentration camps like Auschwitz.
Captain Pilecki, served as an officer in the Polish Army during the Polish-Soviet War (1919 – 1920) and during World War II. As part of the Resistance to Nazi Occupied Poland, he co-founded the Secret Polish Army (along with Lieutenant Colonel Jan Henryk “Darwicz” Włodarkiewicz and Lieutenant Colonel Władysław “Stefan” Surmacki ), which eventually became part of the Home Army. When Germany invaded Poland at the end of 1939, very little was known about the concentration camps, but Captain Pilecki had a plan. His idea, which was approved by his Polish Army superiors, was to come out of hiding during a Warsaw roundup in order to be arrested and shipped to Auschwitz, where he could organize the resistance and report on the situation from the inside.
“I’ve been trying to live my life so that in the hour of my death I would rather feel joy, than fear.”
— Witold Pilecki’s statement to the judge after his sentencing, May 15, 1948
He was given a false identity card and was arrested on September 19, 1940. Arrested along with him were 2,000 civilians, including journalist and historian Władysław Bartoszewski (who was designated “Righteous Among Nations” in 1965). After being detained for two days, “Tomasz Serafiński” was assigned number 4859, and shipped to Auschwitz, where he documented the difference between the way the Nazis treated Jewish people versus non-Jewish people. He also documented the escalating move towards genocide.
During his two and a half years at Auschwitz, Witold Pilecki formed Union of Military Organizations (ZOW), a resistance organization within the camp, which set up intelligence networks; distributed extra food, clothing, and medical supplies; boosted morale; and prepared for a possible Home Army coup. At one point, ZOW was even able to construct and use a secret radio receiver and help at least 4 Polish men escape (with one of Captain Witold’s reports).
“Witold’s Report” (also known as “Pilecki’s Report”) was information that was regularly smuggled through the Polish resistance to London and even to the British government. It provided the outside world with the first “official” documentation of the Nazi’s atrocities. For much of the war, however, the reports of genocide were considered too unbelievable. As the Nazi’s plans became more and more obvious, and as his calls for the Allies to bomb the camps were denied, Captain Pilecki realized he was running out of time. He was receiving news from the outside that the Allies supported the idea of a prisoner insurrection — which he too had suggested at one time. However, by 1943, the people inside the camp were too weakened to mount an attack. He thought could be more convincing in person, so he put a new plan into action.
After he escaped in April 1943, Captain Pilecki wrote “Report W”, outlining the conditions of the camps, as well as details about the gas chambers, the selection process, the crematoria, and the sterilization experiments. His report was signed by other escapees and included the names of ZOW members. He continued to work and organize the resistance, while also expanding “Report W”. He participated in the Warsaw Uprising and was reassigned to Italy, but eventually returned to Communist-controlled Poland. In May of 1947, he was arrested by the Communist government and tortured, but he would not reveal other members of the resistance. He was eventually “tried” and executed. His most comprehensive version of the “W Report” (from 1945) was published in 2012, as The Auschwitz Volunteer: Beyond Bravery, and his life has been the subject of a number of books, songs, and articles.
“Who will be calm and who will be tormented?
Who will become poor and who will get rich?
Who will be made humble and who will be raised up?
But teshuvah and tefillah and tzedakah [return and prayer and righteous acts]
deflect the evil of the decree.”
— quoted from the poem “Unetaneh Tokef” (“Let Us Speak of the Awesomeness”)
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “High Holidays: Bending the Arc Still, in 2026”]
NOTE: The YouTube playlist contains extra videos of some of the songs featured during the practice.
“Even when a man takes revenge on others who hate him, in spite of him not hating them initially, the pain caused by his vengeance will bring him inevitable sorrow.” (313)
“When a man inflicts pain upon others in the forenoon, it will come upon him unsought in the afternoon.” (319)
— quoted from the English translation of the Tamil lyrics of the song “Ahimsa” by U2 and A. R. Rahman, featuring Khatija and Raheema Rahman (translation from IntegralYoga.org)
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT WHY I WANT YOU TO KISS SANDRA’S ASANA!
If you are struggling, 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).
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
LIMITED SPACE FOR HOTEL DISCOUNTS!
### MAY YOUR NAME BE WRITTEN & SEALED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE / MAY YOU HAVE FEW OBSTACLES AHEAD ###
An Important Announcement About Kissing & Giving (with a little Double Dipping) September 12, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 7-Day Challenge, Donate, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma Yoga, One Hoop, Pain, Suffering, Tragedy, Volunteer, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Bert, brain, Healing Stories, KISS MY ASANA, Leslie Scrivener, Mind Body Solutions, Robert Bárány, Rosh Hashanah, Sandra Razieli, Terry Fox, tzedakah
add a comment
“L’Shana Tovah U’Metukah!” to everyone celebrating Rosh Hashanah and the High Holidays. Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone cultivating friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“[His mother, Betty] wondered if Terry really knew how much work and money it would take to run across Canada. Apparently he did. He had discussed his idea with Colin Johnstone, chaplain at the cancer clinic, and on the same day had walked into the office of Blair MacKenzie, executive director of the British Columbia and Yukon Division of the Canadian Cancer Society, and told him he wanted to raise money for cancer research. MacKenzie was skeptical.”
“MacKenzie believed Terry’s ambition, to raise one million dollars, was impossible.
Terry left MacKenzie a letter, one that he composed with Rika [Noda] — using his ideas and her grammar. His letter read:
The night before my amputation, my former basketball coach brought me a magazine with an article on an amputee who ran in the New York Marathon. It was then when I decided to meet this new challenge head on and not only overcome my disability, but conquer it in such a way that I could never look back and say it disabled me.”
— quoted from “6. ‘Mom, I’m going to run across Canada’” in Terry Fox: His Story (New Revised Edition) by Leslie Scrivener
Speaking of marathons and tzedakah (giving as a “righteous act”). . . It’s time to talk about a certain yogathon.
You may be thinking, “Wait, isn’t the yogathon in the Spring? How did I miss the yogathon????” And, yes (to the first question). With the exception of 2016 (when it was in February), the Kiss My Asana yogathon has typically been held in April. This year, for reasons above my paygrade, the yogathon is being held in September. In fact, it starts today (and runs through September 18th).
So, to answer the second question, you didn’t miss it. Today is the first day of the 13th annual Kiss My Asana yogathon that benefits Mind Body Solutions. Normally, I post special offerings throughout the yogathon and sometimes host a Kiss My Asana class. Unfortunately and ironically, I have decided not to host a fundraising page this year.
“My quest would not be a selfish one.”
— quoted from Terry’s letter to MacKenzie in “6. ‘Mom, I’m going to run across Canada’” in Terry Fox: His Story (New Revised Edition) by Leslie Scrivener
Don’t get it twisted! Even though my reasons for not hosting a page are personal, I am still going to “do yoga, share yoga, and help others”. I am still going to donate and promote the yogathon. However, instead of asking you to kiss my asana, I am going to ask you to pucker up and Kiss [Sandra’s] Asana.
As some of you know, Sandra Razieli is a dear friend, as well as a phenomenal yoga/movement teacher and rabbi. She was my co-teacher on the 2015 Sukkot/Gratitude retreat and #23 when I did the 5 questions (in 2016). She has a long history with Mind Body Solutions and, also, with the best ways to practice when you have a “curvy” spine. Over the last few years, Sandra has been delving a little deeper into the mind part of the whole mind-body experience and she is highlighting some of that work with the brain during a special class for this year’s yogathon.
You can click here to Kiss [Sandra’s] Asana… & Cerebellum!
“I was now successful in proving that a direction of movement is localized in the cerebellum. For I found cases in which the reaction of the extremities was missing in one direction only (on the side of the cerebellar hemisphere which was diseased) whereas the reaction of the extremities on the other, healthy side and all the other reactions in the extremities on the diseased side were normal…. Close investigations, however, proved something more namely that within such a centre there was also localization with regard to joints.”
— quoted from the Nobel Prize lecture “Some New Methods for Functional Testing of the Vestibular Apparatus and the Cerebellum” by Robert Bárány, winner of the 1914 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine (delivered September 11, 1916)
As I mentioned before, my decision not to host a page this year is unfortunate and ironic. The unfortunate part is that it is partially related to my brother’s recent hospitalization. The ironic part is that he could definitely benefit from the work Mind Body Solutions does with people living with trauma, loss, and disability. (And, this is the double dipping part, because I would also appreciate it if anyone could help a brother out!)
“Profound, inspirational, and touched my heart.
Now, when anybody asks how Bert did, you can say, ‘What he said at the beginning was profound, inspirational, and touched my heart.’”
— quoted from Bert’s 2020 eulogy for our mom
If you’re interested in my previous KMA offerings, check out the following (some links only take you to the beginning of a series and/or to YouTube):
- 30 Poses in 30 Days
- A Musical Preview
- 5-Minute Practices (the playlist)
- 5 Questions Answered by Yogis
- Answers to Yogis Questions
- A Poetry Practice
- A Preview of the April 1st Practice
- Some Stories
- Prāņāyāma
- The Body/Chakra offerings
- A Series of Poses (scroll down to see the first KMA Community Page post)
- The Series of Shorts Series
- The Full Practice Series (2025)
Remember, if you subscribe to my YouTube channel, you can be notified as soon as the videos are posted.
“‘If you’ve given a dollar, you are part of the Marathon of Hope.’”
— quoted from “9. ‘I think you’ve all heard my story’” in Terry Fox: His Story (New Revised Edition) by Leslie Scrivener
If you are struggling, 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).
