Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Philosophy, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 988, anonymous, Berlin Wall, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, destiny, fate, Germany
Many blessings to everyone and especially to looking for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind. KEEP BREATHING!
“I’m not here for or against any government. I’ve come to play rock ‘n’ roll for you in the hope that one day all the barriers will be torn down”
— Bruce Springsteen, speaking German in East Berlin, before playing “Chimes of Freedom” with the E Street Band, during the “Rocking the Wall” concert, July 19, 1988
How much of destiny is the “Hand of God” and how much is in the hands of humans?
Here are the facts — as much as I know them — and it is up to you to see/hear them; notice what you think; bring awareness to what you feel; and consider what you want. Then, you do. The action is up to you.
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE BELOW FOR MORE.
FTWMI: More Hope, More History…
“Fate is what you are given. Destiny is what you make of it.”
— original source unknown
Please join me today (Saturday, November 9th) 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 (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “11092024 Schicksalstag II”]
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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.
### Peace In / Peace Out ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Faith, First Nations, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Loss, Love, Mantra, Meditation, Music, Mysticism, New Year, One Hoop, Pain, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Suffering, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 988, All Hallows' Day, All Saints Day, Allhallowtide, Atharva Veda, Day of the Holy Innocents, Death, Dia de los Muertos, Dia de Muertos, Dina Kaur, Diwali, Dr. R. L. Kashyap, Feast of the Holy Innocents, Gaiea Sanskrit, Gayatri Mantra, Gāyatrī Mantra, Hanal Pixan, Kali Puja, Kevin Brockmeier, light, mantra, Mathew Sandoval, Mexico, Nicole Greason, pranayama, prāņāyāma, puja, Restorative Yoga, Reverend Richard A. Donohoe, Rig Veda, Stephanie Carmon, Yama / Death, Yoga Sutra 1.36
Happy Diwali and Kali Puja! Blessings, light, love, and peace to everyone, everywhere! Many blessings to everyone observing All Saints y Día de (los) Muertos!
This is the “missing” invitation for the “First Friday Night Special” on November 1st. It is a compilation of related excerpts and some previously posted content. You can request an audio recording of this Restorative Yoga 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.
“oṃ bhūr bhuvaḥ svaḥ
tat savitur vareṇyaṃ
bhargo devasya dhīmahi
dhiyo yo naḥ pracodayāt”
[Conscious, subconscious, unconscious mind, and every plane of existence, we meditate on the (adorable) Light, that it may inspire us, enlighten us, and remove our obstacles.]
— “Gāyatrī Mantra” from the Rig Veda (from Mandala 3.62.10)
During the darkest times of the year, as people all over the world celebrate light overcoming darkness, I often talk about how different cultures and different faith-based traditions include stories in their celebrations where light overcoming darkness can symbolize all kinds of things: good overcoming evil; life overcoming death, wisdom overcoming fear; love overcoming hate; hope overcoming despair, and knowledge overcoming ignorance. During Diwali, the five-day Indian festival of light that started on Tuesday, I often tell a story that highlights all of those metaphors — a story in which Death is vanquished and life prevails. It is a story I often tell on this fourth day of Diwali, which some people dedicate to husbands and wives.
For Those Who Missed It: The content between the green (or beige) quotes is the abridged version of a 2023 post entitled “Light On Love (*revised*)”.
Some dates and links have been updated.
“Embrace me completely
just as a creeper completely embraces a tree
May you be the one loving me only, not another
may you not go away from me”
— Atharva Veda 6.8 (translated by Dr. R. L. Kashyap)
In India and Southeast Asia, Diwali (the 5-day festival of lights) is celebrated by a very diverse group of people. The diversity is not only religious and spiritual — as it is a tradition for Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Newar Buddhists. There are many other sociocultural differences. So, as you can imagine, there are lots of different ways that people tell the story of light overcoming darkness, good overcoming evil; life overcoming death, wisdom overcoming fear; love overcoming hate; hope overcoming despair, and knowledge overcoming ignorance.
For instance, in some rural parts of north, west, and central India, the fourth day of Diwali is a day when people observe Govardhan puja, an offering to honor the legend of Krishna saving the cowherds and farmers from the rain and floods by lifting Mount Govardhan. People build miniature-sized mountains out of cow dung and also “build” mountains of food and mountains of sweets. There is also thanksgiving, especially around the purchase of staples, like salt, which are considered essentials to life.
“with my mind I attract you
just as a bird on the ground beats its wings to go up
May you be the one loving me only, not another
may you not go away from me”
— Atharva Veda 6.8 (translated by Dr. R. L. Kashyap)
The main day of Diwali, yesterday, is often associated with the part of the epic poem the Rāmāyaņa when Rāma, his bride Sītā, and his brother Lakshmana returned home after 14 years in exile. According to the legend, their homecoming was met with brightly lit candles, lamps, and fireworks. The homecoming and the light festivities marked the end of the darkness that represented the jealousy which led to the trio’s exile and Sītā’s kidnapping during the exile, as well as the doubt and fear felt by some of the characters that appear throughout the poem. The lights symbolize the couples love, devotion, and faith in each other; Lakshmana and Hanuman’s devotion to Rāma; and their victory over those who tried to defeat them.
Ergo, for a good majority, this fourth day shines a light on love, relationships, and devotion — especially between husbands and wives. In some areas, husbands give their wives gifts and other areas parents treat their newlywed children to a feast (which also involves gifts).
In addition to telling those aforementioned parts of the Rāmāyaņa, people will also celebrate the story of the defeat of the evil King Bali. Sometimes the story is related to a husband and wife (Shiva and Pārvatī) playing a game of dice on a board with twelve squares and thirty pieces. Every element of the story is symbolic — including the fact that it is a “strip” version of the game, during which the husband ceremoniously looses all his clothes.
One of my favorite husband-wife Diwali stories is actually associated with the first day; but I also tell it on this day. It is the story of a clever wife who used light (and all the properties of light) to “defeat” Death (Yama, in the form of a snake) when he arrived on the fourth night of her marriage in order to take away her new husband, the prince. The legend always reminds me of Scheherazade, in that the wife in the Diwali story also spends the night telling stories and singing songs in order to extend life.
“I go around your mind just as the sun[light] goes around heaven and earth
May you be the one loving me only, not another
may you not go away from me”
— Atharva Veda 6.8 (translated by Dr. R. L. Kashyap)
For Those Who Missed It: Portions of the following were originally posted in 2023.
“All Saints is a celebration of the communion of saints, those people we believe are in heaven, through good works and God’s grace…. On All Saints’ Day there’s a call to live as saints, to remind us how we’re supposed to live.”
— Very Reverend Richard A. Donohoe, vicar of Catholic Charities for Diocese of Birmingham
This year, the fourth day of Diwali falls on November 1st, which is the end of Samhain and the second day of Allhallowtide. It is known as All Hallows Day, meaning it is holy, or All Saints Day in Western Christianity and it is the beginning of Día de (los) Muertos for Mexicans and the Mexican diaspora. Similar rituals, like Hanal Pixan in Yucatán, can be found in Central and South America.
Traditionally today is a memorial day for saints and innocents, i.e. young children, and is a national holiday in some Christian countries. In the Methodist tradition, it is a solemn occasion of remembrance and thanksgiving observed by Christians who have a “fundamental belief that there is a prayerful spiritual bond between those in heaven (Christian triumphant) and the living (the Christian militant).” People will pray for blessings and protection; tend graves; leave flowers — like chrysanthemums in Belgium and France — and; in some country there is an exchange of traditional (and symbolic) treats. In Mexico and for the Mexican diaspora, however, Día de (los) Muertos is traditionally all of the above and a giant celebration full of brightly colored parades, music and dancing, candy skulls, marigolds, and ofrendas (“offerings”) or home or graveside alters curated around the life of a loved one.
“‘It’s an occasion for us to intentionally activate our grief and transform it into something beautiful, vibrant and joyous through dance, music, feasting, telling stories, masquerading and celebration. By transforming grief in these ways, Day of the Dead becomes a deep form of healing. Día de los Muertos is also a lively and joyous occasion because it’s a reminder that we are alive,’ [Mathew Sandoval, associate teaching professor at Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University] said.”
— quoted from the ASU News article entitled, “ASU teaching professor brings Día de los Muertos to life through research, ritual” by Nicole Greason (dated October 31, 2023)
Click on the excerpt title below for more.
FTWMI: Recuerda a las inocentes (*UPDATED*)
“Sandoval is open to others celebrating Día de los Muertos respectfully because he knows how meaningful the observance is.
‘This holiday is medicine. It really is a way to heal,’ he said. ‘If you ever had to deal with the loss of a loved one, you know that that is a significant loss and there aren’t neat and easy ways to heal from that loss. Because often it leaves a wound in the heart and in the soul that is quite jagged and takes a lot of time to heal from.
‘Day of the Dead is medicine in the sense that if you really honor it, if you make time to honor the person who’s passed, it is a way of healing.’”
— quoted from the Arizona Republic article entitled, “Dia de los Muertos: Why ‘“this holiday is medicine”’ and how you can celebrate respectfully” by Dina Kaur (posted on azcentral.com on October 31, 2023)
In all of the aforementioned traditions, we are taught that everyone has light inside of them — which means that remembering someone’s light keeps it shining bright. During this First Friday Night Special, we “remember the light & illumination.”
“The woman who sold bracelets by the river thought that it was the heartbeat at the center of the world, that bright, boiling place she had fallen through on her way to the city. ‘As for this reporter,’ the article concluded, ‘I hold with the majority. I have always suspected that the thumping sound we hear is the pulse of those who are still alive. The living carry us inside them like pearls. We survive only so long as they remember us.’”
— quoted from The Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier
The November First Friday Night Special features a Restorative Yoga practice (with prāņāyāma). It 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 “11012024 All Saints / Día de los / Diwali First Friday”]
NOTE: The playlist tracks used during the practice are slightly different. I will update Spotify when/if the original track is available.
Prop wise, this is a kitchen sink practice and there are times when I suggest using a wall, chair, sofa, or coffee table. You may want extra layers (as your body may cool down during this practice). Having a wall, chair, sofa, or coffee table will be handy for this practice. Example of “Studio” props: 1 – 2 blankets, 2 – 3 blocks, a bolster, a strap, and an eye pillow. Examples 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 for this practice.
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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).
### KEEP SHINING / “BA-DUM. BA-DUM. BA-DUM.” ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Karma Yoga, Life, Loss, Music, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Suffering, Tragedy, Volunteer, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Ahiṃsā, Ahimsa, ahimsā, Angels' Night, Cabbage Night, Detroit, Devil's Night, Emma Davidson-Dillon, Hell Night, James Eliot, Michigan, Mischief Night, Moving Night, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, St. John's College Oxford, svadyaya, svādhyāya, Thomas Alexander Walker, Tom Walker, Yoga Sutra 1.37, Yoga Sutra 2.33, Yoga Sutra 2.44, Yoga Sutras 1.33-1.34, Yoga Sutras 2.33-2.35
Happy Diwali and Kali Puja! Blessings, light, love, and peace to everyone, everywhere! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone looking out for others in the name of friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
May all of us together be safe and protected / May we be peaceful and happy.
“Violence is clearly destructive. It springs from fear, one of the fundamental afflictions. According to this sutra, the practice of non-violence requires us to arrest our violent tendencies by cultivating thoughts opposite to violence.”
— quoted from the commentary on Yoga Sūtra 2.33 from The Practice of the Yoga Sutra: Sadhana Pada by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD
FTWMI: The Angels (& Devils) Within Us
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE ABOVE FOR MORE.
“No, don’t give up
I won’t give up
‘Cause there must be angels”
— quoted from the song “Angels” by Tom Walker (written by Emma Davidson-Dillon / James Eliot / Thomas Alexander Walker)
Please join me today (Tuesday, October 29th) at 12:00 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.
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10292022 Angels, Devils, Mischief, Cabbage”]
NOTE: This playlist has been updated in a way that may slightly change the timing when paired with previous practices (prior to 2023).
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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.
### 
###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 7-Day Challenge, Baha'i, Bhakti, Books, Buddhism, Dharma, Faith, Fitness, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma, Life, Mantra, Meditation, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Suffering, Sukkot, Wisdom, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Deuteronomy, Devarim, Eddie Izzard, Happiness, Happiness 101, klishtaklishta, klişţāklişţāh, lojong, Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, positive psychology, pratītyasamutpāda, saṃskāra, Sukkot, Tal Ben-Shahar, vasana, vāsanā, Yoga Sutra 2.33, Yoga Sutra 4.29, Yoga Sutras 2.1-2.55
“Chag sameach!” to those celebrating Sukkot! Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone grateful for friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This 2-for-2 post is the “missing” post for Saturday, October 19th, and the post-practice post related to the practice on Monday, October 21st. The 2024 prompt question on Monday was two-fold, “What is something or someone from your past and/or present for which you are grateful? What is a future something or someone for which you will be grateful?” This post contains some previously posted content. 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.
“And they have made us Liars. We cannot tell the truth anymore. You cannot reprimand your children.
[In adult voice] ‘No Jonny, you said you you didn’t have a biscuit, but there’s crumbs on your face and you did have a biscuit. You have lied.’
[In kid voice] ‘But you said you had read the terms and conditions when you ticked that box. It’s too quick for you to read the terms and conditions. You read it and [makes the sounds of fast moving text].’
The truth is no one in this room has read the terms and conditions. No one in New York has read the terms and conditions. No one in the Universe — Even God has not read the terms and conditions….”
— quoted from Eddie Izzard: Live at Madison Square Garden (part of the “Stripped” tour) by Eddie Izzard
Any time we update something, start using a new app, or sign a contract for something, we have to acknowledge the “Terms and Conditions” provided in the agreement. We may not always read the fine print, but there is something explicitly laid out that defines expectations and consequences. In life, we don’t always have things explicitly outlined; but, the terms and conditions still exist. In Buddhism and in the Yoga Philosophy, we think of them as causes and conditions.
I have heard the Buddha discussed pratītyasamutpāda, which can be translated into English as “dependent origination”, or “dependent arising”; indicating that “if this exists, that exists; if this ceases to exist, that also ceases to exist”. Here, “this” can be a grain (or direction) of suffering and/or a grain (or direction) of wisdom. A similar rubric is outlined in the second section of the Yoga Sūtras, where Patanjali described how afflicted/dysfunctional and not-afflicted/functional thought patterns (kliṣṭākliṣṭāḥ) are like planted seeds that can lead to pain or pleasure. In both philosophies, the path to ending the causes and conditions of suffering includes meditation and right/skillful/functional thoughts, words, and deeds.
In the absence of the formal practice, both philosophies encourage cultivating the opposite.
“Now I’m allowing myself to lose my inner peace and happiness. This is a much greater loss than losing a portion of my material wealth. Furthermore, such occurrences are commonplace. Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. In worldly matters I will do what needs to be done, but never at the cost of losing the pristine nature of my mind. I must adhere to the higher virtues of my heart.”
— commentary on Yoga Sūtra 2.33 from The Practice of the Yoga Sutra: Sadhana Pada by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, PhD
Another way to think of these terms and conditions is simply as cause and effect — which includes the consequences of our actions, as well as expectations that arise from previous experiences. Some of our expectations are based on our direct lived experiences and some are based on the expectations of other people’s experiences. All of these expectations make up our conditioning. One of the intentions behind the 2024 Saturday practices has been to take a look at our conditioning; to bring awareness to our saṃskāra (“mental impression”) and vāsanā (a literal “dwelling” place of our habits); and to notice some of the reasons why we think, speak, and do as we do.
Once we bring awareness to our conditioning, we can start contemplating future conditioning: which seeds we want to plant and which habits we want to cultivate. However, the ultimate goal of all these practices is to find the state of mind that leads to less suffering. In Buddhism, the ultimate goal is nirvāṇa (or nibbāna, in Pali). In the Yoga Sūtra 4.29, Patanjali described a particular experience of samādhiḥ as “a cloud of virtue”. Either way you think of it, less suffering means… more happiness (whatever that means to you at this moment).
For some people, “the state of being happy” is an ecstatic kind of joy; for others it is “not being miserable”; and then there is everything in between. Both Yoga and Buddhism feature practices centered around happiness. For example, the second niyama (internal observation in the Yoga Philosophy) is santosha, the practice of contentment. In Tibetan Buddhism, one of the lojong (“mind training”) techniques is “Always maintain only a joyful mind.” (#21) Again, these are practices; the jumping off points for meditation and contemplation.
What if, however, you were commanded to be happy?
FTWMI: The following is a revised/updated version of a 2020 post entitled “Be Happy, Now!”
“Be joyful at your festival – you and your son, and your daughter, and your manservant, and your maid-servant, and the Levite, and the stranger, and the orphan, and the widow who live within your city.
For seven days you must celebrate the Festival to YHVH*, your God, in the place which YHVH* shall choose, because the Lord, your God, will bless you in all your produce, and in all the work of your hands, and you will only be happy.”
(*NOTE: YHVH is commonly translated as “the Lord” in English.)
— quoted from Devarim – Deuteronomy (16:14 – 15)
In the Torah (and the Christian Old Testament), there are a list of commandments. Mixed into that list are certain dates the faithful are commanded to observe. We think of them, in the modern context, as “holidays” and they are filled with ritual and tradition. Sometimes the mandate is general and left to interpretation (like when it says in Deuteronomy, “‘… and they shall not appear before the Lord empty: Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which he hath given thee.’” Other times, however, it is very specific about who, what, when, and even where. Sukkot, the “Festival (or Feast) of the Tabernacles (or Booths)” is one of the times where the details are specific — even when they appear vague.
For seven days, 8 in the diaspora, people within the Jewish community and people who observe the commanded holidays, eat, sleep, socialize, and sometimes work in a temporary shelter. The shelter, a sukkah, consists of three walls of any material and a roof made of natural fiber. (Natural being something grown from the earth.) In 2020, when the pandemic created so many obstacles to the ways in which people typically observed and practiced their faith here, finally, was a time when there was less challenge. Yes, true, it was still best for people [around this time in 2020] to socially distance, wear masks, wash your hands, and avoid big gatherings — but, it was also best (when gathering) to be outdoors. It’s like Sukkot was tailor-made for 2020.
“1. Give yourself permission to be human.
2. Happiness lies at the intersection between pleasure and meaning.”
— quoted from the Psychology 1504 (“Positive Psychology”) course by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
One of the significant things about Sukkot is that it is a time for people to come together regardless of their circumstances, gender, religion, or political affiliation. It is a time for all to remember challenges of the past; while also celebrating better days ahead. Another especially noteworthy thing about Sukkot is the symbolism behind the rituals. For instance, one of the points of being outside in the most basic of shelters, exposed to the elements, is to remind people of the time when their ancestors were living in simple, temporary shelters when they were exiled in the desert for 40 years. It is also a good time to remember how much we have — as well as the fact that we could be happy with less. Sukkot is a reminder that life can be full, even when it is simple and bare-boned. It is a time of appreciation and it is also about accepting the present moment.
That last part — accepting the present moment — is easy to overlook. However, the commandment specifically states that the celebration occurs in a place chosen by God. In other words, we might not be where we want to be or where we thought we would be. (Hello, 2020!) This is something I point out every year, but it was especially pointed out to me in 2016, when the creamery, where I held my 2015 Sukkot retreat was no longer available… and again, in 2017, when it was no longer as easy to schedule time in the church where I held the second retreat… and again, in 2019, when the church camp I had planned to use experienced a fire and had to cancel the bulk of their season. And, then, 2020… once again, things were not as we planned — despite the fact that CP graciously offered to help me plan that year’s retreat. On the face, it might sometimes seem that we are “destined” not to observe this time — and yet, we do, every year… just not necessarily in the place that we thought.
“3. Keep in mind that happiness is mostly dependent on our state of mind, not on our status or the state of our bank account.
4. Simplify!”
— quoted from the Psychology 1504 (“Positive Psychology”) course by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Many people refer to Sukkot as the “Season of Happiness”, because they view the instructions in the Bible as a mandate to be happy. Since the instruction is to be joyful, or rejoice, about things that have yet to happen — blessings yet to come — one has to wonder: How can we be “independently happy” and celebrate something that hasn’t happened yet? It’s a good question. And, it turns out, there are some really good answers.
Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, an expert in Positive Psychology and the author of Happier: Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment and A Clash of Values: The Struggle for Universal Freedom, used to teach a class at Harvard University called “Happiness 101”. In his class and through his research, he offered 6 very practical tips for cultivating happiness. Those tips are featured in the practices during Sukkot (and are highlighted throughout this blog post).
“5. Remember the mind-body connection.
6. Express gratitude, whenever possible.”
— quoted from the Psychology 1504 (“Positive Psychology”) course by Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “Sukkot 2”]
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices (on Monday).
Monday Practice Note: Since the prompt question, on Monday, October 21st, elicited several references to educational pursuits, I mentioned that we are in the month of ‘Ilm (“Knowledge”) on the Bahá’í Faith calendar.
This practice also included a teaser for Tuesday.
Click on the excerpt title below for additional content referenced during these practices (including an explanation about the “hedonic treadmill” (or “hedonic adaptation”).
FTWMI*: What Does It Mean to You?
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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).
### YESTERDAY, TODAY, (the possibility of) TOMORROW ###
### Essential workers (outside of healthcare), Essential workers (within healthcare), Teachers ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, 9-Day Challenge, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Music, New Year, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Rosh Hashanah, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Women, Yoga, Yom Kippur.
Tags: 988, Ecclesiastes, Gregorian calendar, High Holidays, Julian calendar, Kalaratri, Kohelet, Malala Yousafzai, Navaratri, Prague Astronomical Clock, Sharada Navaratri, Ten Days of Atonement, Ten Days of Awe, tov
“Chag sameach!” (“Happy Festival!”) to everyone observing the High Holidays. “Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone coming together with friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“Everything has an appointed season, and there is a time for every matter under the heaven.”
— Kohelet — Ecclesiastes (3:1)
Please join me today (Wednesday, October 9th) 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 (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Wednesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “10092024 High Holidays: Good Time”]
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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.
### ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 9-Day Challenge, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Music, Mysticism, New Year, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Rosh Hashanah, Science, Wisdom, Yoga, Yom Kippur.
Tags: 988, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Bamboo, Gregorian calendar, High Holidays, Julian calendar, Kushmanda, Lubavitcher Rebbe, Navaratri, Rabbi Tzvi Freeman, Sharada Navaratri, Ten Days of Atonement, Ten Days of Awe, Time
“Chag sameach!” (“Happy Festival!”) to everyone observing the High Holidays. “Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone coming together with friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This is the “missing” post for Sunday, October 6th. It includes some previously posted content. 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.
“Before you were formed in the womb, your days were numbered and set in place. They are the chapters of the lessons you came here to learn, the faces of the wisdom this world has to teach you, the gateways to the treasures this lifetime alone can bestow.”
— quoted from Hayom Yom, 17 Cheshvan; Naso 5837:6 (From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman)
Time. It is such an arbitrary concept. I mean, we are passing the time every time we inhale; measuring time every time we exhale. However, our experience of time is often based on our perspective. For instance, how long a road trip — or a flight to the other side of the planet — is versus how long it feels can be different and how long it feels can be different if you are by a window, enjoying the view, versus if you really have to go to the bathroom when there’s no place to go. Similarly, if you are having a good time, that time feels different than if you are having a challenging time; just like time seems to move at a different pace when you are looking forward to something versus when you are dreading something — keeping in mind that the “something” in either case may never happen.
Now, you may be thinking that one’s subjective experience of time does not make the concept of time arbitrary. Well, yes and no. Yes, it is true that, as a society, we have agreed on ways we will measure time so that we all show up at the same time and/or do certain things at certain times. However, the systems established were, initially, based on one person’s (or one group of people’s) whims. In other words, arbitrary.
For example, when Papal-governed nations — Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and places like the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth — switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, one of the motivating factors was to use a system of time named for a pope (in this case, Pope Gregory XIII) rather than a Roman emperor (i.e., Julius Caesar). Another factor was that the church wanted more consistency and control over when Easter (and other religious holidays) were celebrated as Catholicism spread beyond Rome.
Where there other factors? Sure. However, the idea for a standardized date for Easter dates back to the First Council of Nicaea (in 325 AD); the need for calendar reform — to produce a more astrologically accurate calendar — dates back to the 8th century; and calendar reform — to produce a more liturgically consistent calendar — was proposed as early as 1475 AD.
Because it is in such common use as a civil calendar (and, therefore, used by people who are not Christian), we don’t typically think of the Gregorian calendar as a religious calendar. However, it is not the only religious calendar used in modern times. Some Christians (and non-Christians) still use the Julian calendar. Others use solar, lunar, lunisolar (sometimes called solilunar) and/or seasonal calendars.
In fact, this time that (quote-unquote) “didn’t exist” as some people were switching over to the Gregorian calendar in 1582, is currently an auspicious time for people using the Hebrew calendar and for people using one the Hindu calendars. Sunday was both the fourth day of the High Holidays in Judaism and the fourth day (and night) of Navaratri. Even though the beliefs, rituals, and traditions are different, both of these sacred times is connected to creating a better future.
“A day enters, opens its doors, tells its story, and then returns above, never to visit again. Never—for no two days of your life will share the same wisdom.”
— quoted from Hayom Yom, 17 Cheshvan; Naso 5837:6 (From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman)
The following excerpt is from a 2020 post:
So there’s this story. It’s an old story and you’ve probably heard it before. I am actually surprised that I was well into my adulthood before I heard it, but not surprised that the first time I heard the story it was in the context of Rosh Hashanah. It’s one of my favorite stories to tell and, this year, I will tell it something like this:
Like so many of us, there’s this person sitting or standing on the edge of a mountain of uncertainty. This year, for obvious reasons, feels different from other years. What feels the same for this person, however, is the frustration and fear that comes from looking back and realizing that they have the same doubts and fears, hopes and dreams that they had this time last year. Rather than feeling like they’ve taken steps forward, closer to their dreams, this person feels like they have stayed in the exact same place — or even that they have taken a few steps back. Everything seems meaningless and pointless and, frankly, they feel they have nothing to show for all the times when they’ve reflected, remembered, repented, and planned.
So, as the head of the year approaches, this person goes to their rabbi and explains that they’re having a hard time. Yes, they understand that everyone is having and hard time — doesn’t make it easier. And, yes, they understand that some folks have it harder — doesn’t make them feel better. Bottom line, they aren’t motivated to make a plan for a new year when they feel they have nothing to show for the old.
The rabbi listens, as rabbis do, and then asks the person: How long does it take for a giant bamboo tree to grow as tall as a building?
Of course, this person doesn’t know (and is a little annoyed that their rabbi chooses this time to ask what appears to be a rhetorical — or liturgical — question). So, the rabbi tells the story of a farmer who decides they want to grow a giant bamboo tree. It’s a good investment, because if the farmer can get a good clump of culms, they can sell the edible shoots and also sell some of the sheath for construction and weaving. The farmer does some research, figures out the best place to plant, obtains some rhizome with their roots intact, and plants the cutting in a hole that is large enough to hold the rhizome and the roots (but not any deeper than the root-ball).
Satisfied with their work, the farmer goes about their business, watering and fertilizing the newly planted areas as needed. They do this for a year…. And then a second year…. By the third year, some of the farmer’s neighbors are starting to crack jokes about the farmer and their empty plot of land. Because no one sees anything happening — except the farmer diligently watering and fertilizing the area for yet another year. Finally, in the fifth year, a new growth appears. Then, within six weeks, that fertile green sprout shoots up as tall as a building.
“So,” the rabbi asks the person in their office, “how long does it take a giant bamboo to grow as tall as a building?”
The person who came seeking advice frustratingly says, “Six weeks.”
“No,” the rabbi patiently explains, “it takes five years….. Growth takes patience and perseverance. Every drop of water makes a difference; every step you take makes an impact. You may not see the change right away, but growth is happening.”
CLICK HERE FOR MORE (including a video version of the bamboo story).
“[Kushmanda] also lives in our hearts. The fact that she is smiling reminds us that we too are our most creative when we are smiling and feeling positive, courageous (a quality of heart), and strong. The fact that this goddess, like Chandraghanta, rides a lion shows that the power of love is just as potent as the fire of transformation. It reminds us that the ability to love comes from inner strength. When we feel clouded by fear, anger, and grief, it can be difficult to imagine one day having the strength to love again. But Kushmanda is here to remind us that, no matter how brokenhearted we may feel at time, the power of love lives within us, and we can tap into it and become our creative best at any time.”
— quoted from the “Knowing Kushmanda” section of “Chapter 4 — The Art of Loving Your True Self” in The Way of the Goddess: Daily Rituals to Awaken Your Inner Warrior and Discover Your True Self by Ananta Ripa Ajmera
The following excerpt is from an earlier 2024 celebration of Navaratri:
Navaratri, the “nine nights” and days of celebration in the Hindu tradition, is different from the other celebrations, because it is a celebration that focuses on Durga, the divine mother, in various manifestations. The fourth day is dedicated to the Goddess Kushmanda who, it is said, “created the world with her divine smile” — a smile that also powers the sun. She is recognized as Shakti (the creative force) and associated with good health (specifically with improving health), wealth, and strength.
“Stay To change the past, there is no need to travel in a time machine. Everything can be done by remote control.
Here’s how it works: From beyond the continuum of time, its Creator looks at where your spaceship is heading right now. From that point, He creates all its trajectory—through the future and through the past.
Switch the direction your past is sending you. Soon enough, it becomes a different past.”
— quoted from “Maamar Padah B’Shalom 5738” (From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman)
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “High Holidays: How Much Longer…”]
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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).
### MAY YOUR NAME BE WRITTEN & SEALED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE (& MAY YOUR BAMBOO GROW) ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 9-Day Challenge, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Music, Mysticism, New Year, One Hoop, Religion, Rosh Hashanah, Wisdom, Yoga, Yom Kippur.
Tags: 988, Bamboo, Gregorian calendar, High Holidays, Julian calendar, Kushmanda, Lubavitcher Rebbe, Navaratri, Rabbi Tzvi Freeman, Sharada Navaratri, Ten Days of Atonement, Ten Days of Awe, Time
“Chag sameach!” (“Happy Festival!”) to everyone observing the High Holidays. “Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone coming together with friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“Stay To change the past, there is no need to travel in a time machine. Everything can be done by remote control.
Here’s how it works: From beyond the continuum of time, its Creator looks at where your spaceship is heading right now. From that point, He creates all its trajectory—through the future and through the past.
Switch the direction your past is sending you. Soon enough, it becomes a different past.”
— quoted from “Maamar Padah B’Shalom 5738” (From the wisdom of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, words and condensation by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman)
Please join me for a 65-minute virtual yoga practice on Zoom today (Sunday, October 6th) at 2:30 PM. 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.
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “High Holidays: How Much Longer…”]
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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.
### ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 9-Day Challenge, Art, Bhakti, Changing Perspectives, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Mysticism, New Year, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Rosh Hashanah, Wisdom, Yoga, Yom Kippur.
Tags: 988, Anodea Judith, chakra, chakras, Chandraghanta, High Holidays, Navaratri, Sharada Navaratri, Tchuvah, Teshuvah, Unetaneh Tokef, vinyasa, vinyasa krama
“Chag sameach!” (“Happy Festival!”) to everyone observing the High Holidays. “Nine days and nine nights of blessings and happiness if you are celebrating Sharada Navaratri!” Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone coming together with friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This is the “missing” post for Saturday, October 5th. It includes an excerpt and some previously posted content. 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.
“Through our experiences, each one of us builds a personal matrix of information within our minds. From the first glimpse of our mother’s face to our doctoral dissertations and beyond, we spend our lives trying to piece together some sense of order from what we see around us. Each bit of information we receive gets incorporated into that matrix, making it even more complex. As it grows more complex it tends to periodically ‘reorganize’ itself, finding higher levels of order which simplify its system…. allowing a new wholeness to be perceived. Enlightenment is a progressive understanding of ever greater wholeness.”
— quoted from the section entitled “Information” in “Chapter 8 – Chakra Seven: Thought” of Wheels of Life: A Users Guide to the Chakra System by Anodea Judith, Ph.D.
Whether we realize it or not, everything we do is the beginning of, and preparation for, the next thing we do. This is made apparent during the practice, when we bring awareness to the fact that the inhale is the beginning of, and preparation for, the exhale — and that the exhale is the beginning of, and preparation for, the exhale. It is also explicitly illustrated in a vinyasa practice, when we “place things in a special way” in order to match the movement to the breath and, also, when we use vinyasa krama to “place things in a special way, for a step-by-step progression.” What is not always as obvious is that what happens on the mat also happens off the mat.
Life happens — and is experienced — in a very special step-by-step progression, whether we realize it our not. This is true even when we change the way we count our days. Most babies roll over before they crawl, crawl before the walk, and walk before they run. Education builds on the knowledge we already have. An ideal career trajectory involves advancement and an expansion of skills and/or expertise. Psychological, spiritual, and religious development has also been mapped out. So, too, has energetic progression been described as we’ve moved through this year’s Saturday practices: beginning with the first chakra, our physical foundation, and where we begin in life and moving through various experiences until we reached this present moment and an awareness of our wholeness.
Recognizing where we come from, and how our past informs our present, helps us better understand how this present moment informs our future moments. We also gain a better understanding of why we think (and perceive things) the way we do and why we do the things we do. Ultimately, this knowledge can help us avoid making the same mistakes and plan for better days. In other words, this whole calendar year, we have been getting ready for a possibility party — and now it’s time to…
RSVP
— Acronym for Répondez s’il vous plaît [French for “Respond if you please”]
FTWMI: You’re Invited To A Possibility Party!
FOR MORE, CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE ABOVE.
In addition to being the third day of the High Holidays (which started on Wednesday at sunset), Saturday was also the third day of Navaratri, the Hindu festival of “nine nights” celebrating divine feminine energy in various manifestations. The third manifestation of Durga, the divine mother, is Chandraghanta, whose name “one who has a half-moon shaped like a bell” comes from the image of the newly-wed Parvati. She is depicted as a combination of beauty, grace, and courage, with her third eye open — the result of all the (yoga) preparation performed by Her previous manifestation. That open third eye means that she is always ready to fight evil and demons. In fact, she is sometimes known as the “Goddess Who Fights Demons.”
Here “demons” can be a metaphor for anything that ails you physically, mentally, emotionally — even energetically, spiritually, and religiously. They can be challenges and hurdles that need to be over come. They can even be mistakes… sins… or vows (as we will refer to them in the coming days) that can be absolved or forgiven. In fact, the faithful of all the different religions believe that there are ways (and even special times) when mistakes, sins, and broken vows are turned away.
“But teshuvah and tefillah and tzedakah [repentance 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 “Rosh Hashanah 2021”]
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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).
### MAY YOUR NAME BE WRITTEN & SEALED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 9-Day Challenge, Art, Bhakti, Books, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Life, Love, Meditation, Mysticism, New Year, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Religion, Rosh Hashanah, Suffering, Wisdom, Women, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Ananta Ripa Ajmera, Brahmacharini, Brahmacharya, Gregorian calendar, High Holidays, Joan Borysenko, Julian calendar, liberation, Navaratri, Rabbi Binyomin Weisz, Restorative Yoga, Rosh Hashanah, Sharada Navaratri, Ten Days of Atonement, Ten Days of Awe, Unetaneh Tokef, Walt Whitman
“L’Shana Tovah U’Metukah!” to everyone celebrating Rosh Hashanah and the High Holidays. “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.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
This is the “missing” invitation for the “First Friday Night Special” on October 4th. It includes a related excerpt and some previously posted content. You can request an audio recording of this Restorative Yoga 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.
“Through the years I’ve written and taught extensively about ‘liminal time,’ that pregnant pause between what is no longer and what is not yet. Although liminal time is a known stage in all rites of passage, most people have never heard of it. Whether we’re talking about a pandemic, a war, a refugee crisis, or even a man or womanhood ritual, a graduation, or a new job far away from family and friends, the stages (though not the intensity) of a rite of passage are the same.”
— quoted from “Running the Gauntlet of the Unknown” by Joan Borysenko, PhD (posted at joanborysenko.com, April 1, 2020)
This is a liminal moment — a transitional or threshold moment, a doorway in between moments; like the pauses in between the inhale and the exhale. As I have mentioned before, we could say that about any moment in our lives; however, this is one of those Liminal moments that is being recognized as an auspicious time by several communities around the world. This is one of those moments full of ceremony, ritual, and tradition.
In addition to being a sacred time in several religious communities, this is also the anniversary of a liminal time. October 4, 1582, was the last day that Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and places like the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth used the Julian calendar. In order to transition to the (new) Gregorian calendar, Papal-governed countries had to skip 10 days (October 5 — 14). It was almost as if they never existed and would never exist. Sure, they were just rebranded; but, this day, as well as those missing days (that pop up at different times in other countries), serve as a reminder that this present moment is the only one we are promised.
But, what if we were given the opportunity to “request” (or accept) and plan for more time?
“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 [repentance and prayer and righteous acts]
deflect the evil of the decree.”
— quoted from the poem “Unetaneh Tokef” (“Let Us Speak of the Awesomeness”)
For some, the opportunity to request (or accept) more time started at sunset on Wednesday, which marked the beginning of Rosh Hashanah in Jewish communities around the world (and in communities where people observe the commanded holidays outlined in Deuteronomy). Literally “the Head of the Year,” the beginning of this New Year is also the beginning of the High Holidays — known as the “Ten Days of Atonement” and the “Ten Days of Awe” — which culminate with Yom Kippur, “The Day of Atonement.” It is one of the holiest times of the year for some and is celebrated by people who might not typically go to services. Unlike a secular new year, it is more than a celebration — it is an observation: a time for reflection, remembrance, and repentance.
It is also a time when people “request” (or accept) and plan for more time.
Click on the excerpt title below for more (including a preview of the Saturday practice).
FTWMI: You’re Invited To A Possibility Party!
“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
Thursday was 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. Friday, 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 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). People consider her a symbol of bliss and calmness and 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.
“So I draw courage and stand face-to-face with my limitations, without shrinking or running. I allow for honest remorse. Here is my place of Now….
Of course, acceptance does not mean becoming complacent. I still need to honestly evaluate my life and reflect on how I want to act differently this coming year. It also doesn’t preclude trying my best.
But at this very moment my state of ‘now’ is my truth.”
— quoted from an article entitled “Perfectly Imperfect: The Secret of the Shofar” (09/12/2020) by Rabbi Binyomin Weisz
The October First Friday Night Special features Restorative Yoga (with some gentle movement). It is accessible and open to all.
(NOTE: There will be a little bit of quiet space in this practice.)
Prop wise, this can be a kitchen sink 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. A water bottle can be used if a ball is not handy.
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 for this practice.
Friday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify.
NOTE: The playlist tracks are slightly different in length and duration.
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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).
### MAY YOUR NAME BE WRITTEN & SEALED IN THE BOOK OF LIFE ###
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Books, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Karma, Life, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Poetry, Super Heroes, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.
Tags: 988, Batman Day, H. G. Wells, Leonard Cohen, Life, Lindsey Stirling, Stephen King, Walter Breuning, Yoga Sutras 2.12-2.14, Yoga Sutras 3.14-3.16
Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone celebrating a Marian feast day (or Batman Day) and/or living a life of friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom.
Stay safe! Live well! Hydrate and nourish your heart, body, and mind.
“Remember that life’s length is not measured by its hours and days, but by that which we have done therein. A useless life is short if it lasts a century. There are greater and better things in us all, if we would find them out. There will always be in this world—wrongs. No wrong is really successful. The day will come when light and truth and the just and the good shall be victorious and wrong as evil will be no more forever.”
— Walter Breuning (b. 09/21/1896), during his 113th birthday celebration in 2009
Please join me today (Saturday, September 21st) 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 (for a slightly faster reply) you can email myra (at) ajoyfulpractice.com.
Saturday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “09212022 More Songs for Today’s Adventure”]
“We did not ask for this room or this music. We were invited in. Therefore, because the dark surrounds us, let us turn our faces to the light. Let us endure hardship to be grateful for plenty. We have been given pain to be astounded by joy. We have been given life to deny death. We did not ask for this room or this music. But because we are here, let us dance.”
— a poem by Bridget Carpenter and Stephen King (b. 09/21/1947), featured in the miniseries 11.22.63
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 a new app, which I have not yet 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 in need of 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.
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A Joyful Practice 