How You Can Use What is “Happening” to Un-Cage Yourself (a compilation post with excerpts & a video) September 5, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Abhyasa, Art, Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Japa, Japa-Ajapa, Life, Meditation, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Vairagya, Vipassana, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 8 Limbs of Yoga Philosophy, 988, Abhyasa, Allan Kaprow, Art, Bhagavad Gita, dance, elephants, Happening, I Ching, Japa-Ajapa, John Cage, kriyā yoga, La Monte Young, Merce Cunningham, music, Philosophy, Richard Kostelanetz, samskaras, samskāras, silence, tapas, Vairagya, vasana, vāsanā, Walt Whitman, Writing, yoga, Yoga Sutra 2.1, Zen Buddhism
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone observing Apodosis of the Dormition; offering prayers for forgiveness on Leil Selichot; and/or awakening friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside).
May you be safe, protected, and appreciated.
“The past is not fact. The past is simply a big field that had a great deal of activity in it. I asked a historian once, ‘How do you write history?’ and he said, ‘Oh, you have to invent it.’ Well, the way we invent history is by doing what we do; and the more we do, the more we look into the past to see if there is anything that is like what we are doing. If there is, we get interested; and if there isn’t, we don’t.”
— quoted from “Three: His Own Music (to 1970)” in Conversing with Cage by Richard Kostelanetz
What we are doing right here, right now, in this present moment, is based on our past moments and our past experiences. What we do next is based on those past moments and experiences as well as whatever we do (are doing) in this present moment. It seems really obvious, right? And, yet, if we are not mindful, intentional, and deliberate, we will continue doing the same things over and over again — even when those things no longer serve us (or we realize they never served us). Even when they are the same mistakes and/or the same bad behavior, over and over again.
Change requires discipline. Tapas (“heat, discipline, austerity” and the practices that cultivate them) is such an important part of the Yoga Philosophy it is one of the niyamas (internal “observations”) and the first element in kriyā yoga (“union in action”). (YS 2.1) It is described in the Bhagavad Gita as a purification tool and defined as “‘to melt’, as in refining ore.” (BG 17.14)
Tapas is a part of the practice that requires repetition.
“And this repetition of the exercises, which resemble print more than electronics, which resemble classing dancing more than Happenings, is nevertheless physically necessary if [Merce Cunningham] is to dance at all. I think this is his principal problem at the present moment. Were he to give up the daily class, all the dancing, as he has lived to do it, it would become impossible, because the things that are done are athletic in character and are not possible unless you maintain a daily discipline in the same sense that one cannot high jump unless the body is physically disciplined.”
— quoted from “Nine: Dance” in Conversing with Cage by Richard Kostelanetz
Because of the discipline involved, a yoga practice has a lot in common with dance (and other athletic endeavors). Yet, a yoga class can also haves a lot in common with a “Happening”: a performance or art event that may be lightly scripted, but/and is ultimately a collaboration between the performers, the audience, the time, and the place. The term (“happening”) is attributed to Allan Kaprow, who studied with John Cage.
Born today in 1912, John Cage played around with musical happenings in the 1950s, while also studying Buddhism and collaborating with his partner Merce Cunningham, the choreographer. He also experimented with prepared instruments and explored silence and chance, while grappling with his ever-evolving feelings about repetition (particularly in music).
“[The composer La Monte Young] is able either through the repetition of a single sound or through the continued performance of a single sound for a period like twenty minutes, to bring it about that after, say, five minutes, I discover what I have all along been thinking was the same thing is not the same thing after all, but full of variety. I find his work remarkable almost in the same sense that the change in experience of seeing is when you look through a microscope. You see that there is something other than what you thought there was.”
— quoted from “Ten: Successors” in Conversing with Cage by Richard Kostelanetz
In some ways, our yoga practice is like a lab or a microscope, giving us the opportunity to “see things [like our habits] in a special way”.
Ancient and modern sciences agree that if we repeatedly do something enough times, we will continue to do that thing. In other words, it will become a habit. It doesn’t matter if we look at this paradigm through the lens of modern science (which focuses on how neural pathways are formed and hardwired) or if we think of it through the lens of ancient sciences like Yoga and Āyurveda (which highlight samskara [a “mental impression”] and vasana [a literal “dwelling” place of our habits]). Do something enough and doing it begins to feel instinctual. This is true whether we consider the behavior good, bad, or neutral.
Regardless of the value we place on a behavior, most of the things we are in the habit of doing are things that we may not have intentionally set out to do. The Yoga Philosophy, however, encourages us to cultivate the habit of cultivating habits. Abhyasa is the “[continuous and deliberate] practice, [engaged with sincere devotion]”. Paired with vairagya (“non-attachment”), abhyasa is a mindful, intentional, and deliberate way of creating habits that serve you — on and off the mat. (YS. 1.12-1.14) This practice highlights the fact that, although we may find ourselves trapped in habitual behaviors, we forget (or never learned) that we can change our habits.
We just have to do the new thing again and again… and again.
“If something is boring after 2 minutes, try it for 4. If still boring, then 8. Then 16. Then 38. Eventually one discovers that it is not boring at all.”
— John Cage
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLES BELOW FOR MORE.
First Friday Night Special #59 — Invitation for “How to Get Out of Your Cage” (with excerpt & video)
“Get yourself out of whatever cage you find yourself.”
— John Cage
Please join me today (Saturday, September 5th) 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 “09052020 The Cagey Truth About Nothing”]
FAIR WARNING: The volume on these tracks is quite dynamic, especially on the Spotify list. I love this music, however, I know some folks hate it; so, feel free to “randomly” pick another list or…practice in “silence.”
If you are interested in John Cage, and need something a little less dynamic, another playlist is also available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “09052025 How to Get Out of Your Cage”]
Pure Cage
Extreme heat (and a lot of changes) can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
LIMITED SPACE FOR HOTEL DISCOUNTS!
### LIVE UNCAGED ###
[FTWMI] 2 EXCERPTS: “Re-Introducing SOPHIE” & “How Do You Love Ye?” (the post-practice Monday post) August 24, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Changing Perspectives, Healing Stories, Hope, Life, Love, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, Art, avidya, Books, Goth, Intolerance, music, Paulo Coelho, Sophie Lancaster, Sophie Lancaster Foundation, Sylvia Lancaster, Writing, yoga, yoga philosophy
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone observing the Dormition (Theotokos) Fast; and/or working to cultivate friendship, peace, freedom, understanding, and wisdom — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside) — on the International Day Against Intolerance, Discrimination, & Violence Based on Musical Preference.
Stay hydrated & be kind, y’all!
For Those Who Missed It: This post-practice post for Monday, August 24th, was originally posted in 2025. Some formatting, links, and retreat information have been added/updated. The 2026 prompt question was, “What is your favorite kind/genre of music?” You can request an audio recording of these practices or a previous 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 great aim of every human being is to understand the meaning of total love. Love is not to be found in someone else, but in ourselves; we simply awaken it. But in order to do that, we need the other person.”
— quoted from Eleven Minutes by Paulo Coelho (b. 1947)
Click on the first excerpt title below to “meet” Sophie Lancaster and the second excerpt title for a mini-post about Paulo Coelho.
“During the long hours at hospital, Sylvia decided that when Sophie was better, they would go into schools and talk to young people about difference, and how it is ok to be who you are and express yourself in your own way. Sadly, Sylvia never got a chance to do this with Sophie.”
— quoted from the “Welcome” page for the Sophie Lancaster Foundation
There is no playlist for the Common Ground Meditation Center practices; however….
You can find music referenced in the practice and in the excerpted posts on the playlist available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “08242021 A Day for SOPHIE”]
NOTE: The YouTube playlist contains this video with a graphic depiction of violence.
Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
### “Love is looking at the same mountains from different angles.” ~ Paulo Coelho ###
roj vay’ potlh ngIq (“Peace is an important part of the process”) [the “missing” Wednesday post] August 19, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Books, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Love, Movies, One Hoop, Peace, Philosophy, Poetry, Science, TV, Wisdom, Women, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Alexander Courage, American Sign Language, ASL, BSL British Sign Language, Dorothy Miles, Dot Miles, Gene Roddenberry, Google Doodle, Howie Seago, Jonathan Frakes, klesha, Klingon, klishtaklishta, klişţāklişţāh, Leo Damian, Marnie Mosiman, music, Passion/Warrior, peace, Philo T. Farnsworth, Riva, Scholar/Dreamer/Artist, Science Fiction, sign language, sign languages, Star Trek, Television, Thomas Oglesby, universal translator, William T. Riker, Woman/That Which Binds Them, Writing, yoga philosophy, Yoga Sutra 1.5, Yoga Sutras 1.30-1.32, Yoga Sutras 2.2-2.11, Youmee Lee
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone observing the Second “Feast of the Saviour” (in August) and/or exploring friendship, peace, freedom, and wisdom — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside).
Stay hydrated & be kind, y’all!
Pardon me, while I catch up!
This “missing” (and backdated) compilation post for Wednesday, August 19th, includes new and re-purposed content, an extra poem, a previously posted video, and a series of 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.
“RIKER: So none of the background which we have provided would be helpful in understanding why they continue to fight?
SCHOLAR: The portfolio will indicate that the conflict is over a piece of land, or wealth, or some other tangible asset. But we both know that is not the case.
RIKER: They’ve been at war for so long, it has become personal.
SCHOLAR: Exactly. The basis for peace must also be personal….”
— quoted from Star Trek Deep: Next Generation, “Loud as a Whisper” – (season 2, episode 5, aired January 9, 1989), conversation between First Officer William T. Riker (played by Jonathan Frakes), Riva (played by Howie Seago), and the Chorus (played by Thomas Oglesby as Scholar/Dreamer/Artist, Marnie Mosiman as Woman/That Which Binds Them, and Leo Damian as Passion/Warrior)
Understatement of the Day: There is a lot of conflict in the world.
Most of the conflict in the world is not new. We may point to something that happened yesterday or two weeks ago or two years ago or six (or ten or twenty) years ago as being the beginning of the conflict. However, more often than not, the roots of the conflict go much deeper than whatever we can point to at this moment. I think this is true about global conflicts, as well as about individual conflicts — and this idea is highlighted in the Yoga Sūtras.
According to the Yoga Sūtras (1.5; 1.30-1.32; 2.2-2.11), everything we think — and, therefore, everything we say and do — is a seed that can be described as klişțāklişțāh (“afflicting/dysfunctional or non-afflicting/functional”). (That which is klesha (an “affliction”) grows into suffering. Every seed (regardless of how it is colored) can be dormant, attenuated/weakened, intercepted, or fully activated/rooted through our actions. Part of the practice is about being very mindful of what we “plant” in the world and very deliberate and intentional about what we uproot versus what we nurture. One of the ways we do this is by practicing peace.
“Shanti Shanti Shanthi Om”
“Peace [within us], Peace [all around us], Peace [to and from everything and every one we encounter] With our conscious, subconscious, and unconscious mind and on every plane of existence.”
— Sanskrit and English, quoted from the end of the shantipats
There are, without a doubt, a lot of pithy, poignant, and even meaningful quotes about peace. However, again and again, I come back to a reminder found at the end of every shantipat. The importance of peace is emphasized by the fact that the word shanti (“peace”) is repeated three times.
That final “peace” is drawn out and can be translated as an emphatic “Peace, because I said so!” or “Peace, because I demand it!” However, more often than not, I translate the three repetitions as, “Peace within us, peace all around us, peace to and from everything and everyone we encounter.” Then, I tack on a little reminder: “Peace, like [insert quality of the day] begins within.”
In other words, peace is personal and [finding your personal] “roj vay’ potlh ngIq (peace is an important part of the process).”
Since our experiences are different, the details of our conflicts are difference. So, if we want peace, we have figure out “qaStaH nuq jay (What the bleep is happening?)” and the best way to communicate with ourselves and others [i.e., “Holchaj yIjatlh. (Speak in their language).”]
August 19th is the anniversary of the birth of three people who changed how we consume media and what media we consume.
Click on the excerpt titles below for the 2020 post and the 2023 note related to Philo T. Farnsworth (b. 1906) and Gene Roddenberry (1921), and the related 2025 post that connects their television innovations to the work of Dorothy “Dot” Miles (b. 1931).
“…people meet and part.
The word becomes the action in this language of the heart.”
— quoted from the English translation of the poem “Language for the Eye” by Dorothy Miles
“I gave a lot of thought this year to my own Christmas list
I think these should be given to all, and no-one should be missed;
The first and most important is that we should learn to Love…
Ourselves — and then each other as we will in ‘heaven above’.
And after that Intelligence., growing like a seed;
And then a little Discipline, a scolding when we need!
And last of all, when all these are working as they should.
The right amount of Humour to make life good.”
— quoted from the English translation of the poem “Christmas List” by Dorothy Miles
Wednesday’s “Courage filled” playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “08192020 To Boldly Go with Courage”]
Playlist Note: The YouTube playlist includes an interview with Gene Roddenberry and the Dorothy Miles poem “Language for the Eye” (which is also below).
Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
### roj ###
[More Out of this World] Communication (just the music & blessings) August 12, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Music, One Hoop, Science, Yoga.Tags: "A Great Day in Harlem", 988, Art Kane, Echo 1A, jazz, music, musicians, NASA, Parker Solar Probe, photography, Project Echo
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Many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone preparing for the Dormition Fast and/or cultivating communication that leads to peace — especially when it gets hot (inside and outside).
Stay hydrated & be kind, y’all!
Please join me today (Wednesday, August 12th) 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 “08122025 Communication”]
Extreme heat can not only make people lethargic and unmotivated, it can also lead to extreme agitation and anxiety-based fear. We may find it hard to think, hard to feel (or process our feelings), and/or hard to control our impulses. If you are struggling in the US, help is available just by dialing 988.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or need a safe and judgement-free place to talk, you can also click here to contact the TrevorLifeline (which is staffed 24/7 with trained counselors).
In the spirit of generosity (“dana”), the Zoom classes, recordings, and blog posts are freely given and freely received. If you are able to support these teachings, please do so as your heart moves you. (NOTE: You can donate even if you are “attending” a practice that is not designated as a “Common Ground Meditation Center” practice, or you can purchase class(es).
Donations are tax deductible; class purchases are not necessarily deductible.
Check out the “Class Schedules” calendar for upcoming classes.
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
### 
###
FTWMI(2): A Note & EXCERPT: “Not So De-Lovely Circumstance(s)?” June 9, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Basketball, Changing Perspectives, Depression, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Life, Loss, Men, Music, One Hoop, Pain, Philosophy, Religion, Suffering, Tragedy, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, accident, amputation, cancer, Changing Perspectives, Cole Porter, disability, jazz, Loss, Matthew Sanford, mental health, Mind Body Solutions, music, trauma, Wayman Tisdale, yoga philosophy, yoga practice
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Happy Pride! Many, many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone celebrating PRIDE and/or the 2nd Week after Pentecost & the Apostles’ (Peter & Paul) Fast.
For Those Who Missed It: The following note and excerpt were originally posted in 2024.
“‘You can never give up because quitting is not an option,’ [Wayman] Tisdale says. ‘No matter how dark it is or how weak you get, until you take that last breath, you must fight.’”
— quoted from the Dec. 3, 2008 ESPN article “Tisdale reaches for his biggest rebound” by Anna K. Clemmons
The first question I asked in a 2020 blog post (see below) was, “Have you ever experienced trauma, loss, and disability?”
During yesterday’s practice, I mentioned how the trajectory of Robert Schumann’s life and career changed when he lost sensation in his right pinky finger. Eventually, he loss the use and dexterity of his whole right hand. The physical trauma, loss, and disability took an emotional toll that eventually landed him in sanatorium. Coincidentally, today is the anniversary of the birth of Cole Porter (b. 1891) and Wayman Tisdale (b. 1964) — two people who shared a lot in common with Robert Schumann, including music, love, and trauma, loss, and disability… again on the right side. However, they dealt with their circumstances in very different ways.
Click on the title of the excerpt below for the entire 2020 post about Cole Porter and Wayman Tisdale.
“Sad times, may follow your tracks
Bad times, may bar you from Sak’s
At times, when Satan in slacks
Breaks down your self control
Maybe, as often it goes
Your Abe-y, may tire of his rose
So baby, this rule I propose
Always have an ace in the hole.”
— quoted from the song “Ace in the Hole” by Cole Porter
Please join me today (Tuesday, June 9th) 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 in 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 “06092020 Not So De-Lovely Circumstance(s)”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not researched, but which may be helpful if you need peer-to-peer (non-professional) support.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or 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.
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
### NOTICE HOW YOU DEAL WITH CIRCUMSTANCES
(whether they be the de-lovely kind or not) ###
A BIG Thank You, A Little Reminder, & A Request (a bonus post) May 28, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Donate, Gratitude, Healing Stories, Karma Yoga, Life, Love, Minneapolis, Minnesota, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Science, Swami Vivekananda, Texas, Twin Cities, Volunteer, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: Carl Rogers Young, David Shul, giving thanks, gratitude, Jason Patrick Bowman, Michael Franti, music, retreat, Spearhead, Swami Vivekananda
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Many, many blessings to everyone.
“A hundred lives would not be sufficient to pay my deep debt of gratitude to you! I have not words enough to express my gratitude to you. ‘If the Indian Ocean were an inkstand, the highest mountain of the Himalaya the pen, the earth the scroll and time itself the writer’ (Adapted from the Shiva-Mahimnah-Stotram [verse 32].) still it will not express my gratitude to you!”
— quoted from “Epistles — Second Series: XL (From a letter written to H. H. the Maharaja of Khetri) American, 1894.” as printed in Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda (Volume 6) by Swami Vivekananda
Normally, when Kiss My Asana is in April and the donation pages are officially open until sometime in May, this is around the time when I post a little thank you for all the support. Even though KMA (or, at least the corresponding Salon) has been rescheduled this year, I still want to take this opportunity to say thank you. This is a big thank you, because I want to thank everyone who has supported me and this practice and this yoga community over the years.
Big shoutout and thank you to those of you who remember me teaching yoga in your living rooms. Thank you to the A-Team and the Wolf Team (my cohorts during my first teacher training) and all the teachers and students in all of my trainings. Thank you to everyone who regularly (or sporadically) came to classes at the YMCAs, the studios, Common Ground Meditation Center, and/or a condo or community center classes. Thank you to all my meditation buddies.
Thank you to everyone who has supported Kiss My Asana over the years. Thank you to everyone who have showed up (at multiple locations) for the Yoga Week classes over the last few years — not to mention those who helped me find and secure those multiple locations. I will also appreciate you showing up in the future.
Thank you to everyone who showed up for Sunrise Yoga during Northern Lights, for practices during Don’t You Feel It To? events, and/or for one of the special practices at one of the museums. Thank you for everyone who has attended (or will attend) a retreat. Thank you to the coordinators of those events, who invited me to teach, as well as to the supervisors and studio owners/managers I have met along the way. Thank you to the Carry Prenatal Yoga and Meditation App founders and support team — as well as everyone who has downloaded the app. Thank you for the students, teachers, and staff at Bend Yoga Center.
Thank you to those of you who invited me to teach outside by the lake or creek and those of you who invited me to teach for your birthday… or the birthday of someone you love. Thank you to the couples who invited me to officiate their weddings and to the people who asked me to be a part of a moment marking the beginning of new life or the end of a life well-lived.
Thank you to the handful of you who invited me to share the practice with your co-workers, family, and friends. Thank you to those of you who recommended me to your friends (not to mention your parents or kids), as well as those of you who intentionally (or serendipitously) ended up having a private practice.
Thank you to the handful of you who have opened your homes to me and to everyone (and anyone) who shows up! Thank you to the cooks and for everyone who has shared a dish and/or a whole meal when we all get together!!
Thank you to everyone who has ever purchased a class, made a donation, and/or given me treats. Thank you to everyone who has shared a meal, a hot beverage, a conversation, and/or a giggle with me. Thank you for everyone who has offered me feedback (positive or negative) and recommendations. Thank you to for the tangible gifts as well as those that don’t fit in a box. Thank you for everyone who has made sure I got where I needed to go (not to mention those who made sure I had a place to go).
Thank you to everyone who has continued this journey — either on Zoom; via a recording; through the blog, YouTube, and Spotify channels; and/or at those few times a year when I am offering in-person classes.
Additionally, here’s an extra special shout out and thank you to those of you who don’t practice (and may never practice), but make sure that someone you love has the space, time, technology, and other resources to join the rest of us on the mat and on the cushion.
I apologize if I have forgotten anyone. Please know that I appreciate you and that, as much as I am grateful for how our paths have crossed in the past, I am doubly grateful for how they will crisscross in the future.
Speaking of the future, don’t forget that there is still space for the upcoming gratitude retreat!
“Whoa, whoa, life is better with you
Whoa, whoa, life is better with you
And when I think about the things that we’ve been through
I know just one thing is true, life is better”
— quoted from the song “Life Is Better With You” by Michael Franti & Spearhead (written by Michael Franti, Jason Patrick Bowman)
Final shout-outs and thank yous: I am forever grateful for my yoga and meditation practices — and for the ways in which they became part of my everyday life. It is hard to imagine how I would be (or where I would be) without these practices and it is my continuous hope that your experiences with yoga are similarly profound.
On that note, thank you to my yoga teachers — especially the first ones — and an extra special decades-in-the-making thank you to the person who coordinated my first set of classes (and my second set of classes) and the other person who consistently showed up for the first set of classes (and the handful who showed up for the second set). You know who you are.
Music has always been a big part of my life and, so, it naturally became a big part of my practice. I am grateful for music and the way it opens us up — on so many different levels. I am also grateful that I was introduced to a lot of different music at a very early age. Fun fact: If I hadn’t learned how to read music (when I was a child), I may not have worked at the ballet (the second time around), which means I might not have started practicing yoga when I did… which means I might not have crossed paths with any of you… which means I wouldn’t be nearly as grateful as I am right now.
If you are also grateful for music (on or off the mat), please click here and check out this video for the South High Music Booster Club.
“Everyone deserves music, sweet music
Even our worst enemies Lord, they deserve music, music
And even the quiet ones in our family, they deserve music
So if you’re feelin’ down and out, got no place to go now
Just sing along to the music y’all, let it fill your soul now
Because everyone deserves music, sweet music
Even the quiet ones, the lonely ones
The happy ones ain’t the only ones, y’all
Everyone deserves music”
— quoted from the song “Everyone Deserves Music” by Michael Franti & Spearhead (written by Michael Franti, David Shul, Carl Rogers Young)
NOTE: In his 1894 letter, which recounted some of his experiences at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and Parliament of the World’s Religions, Swami Vivekananda was specifically expressing gratitude for “American women!” (His exclamation mark, not mine.) Towards the end of the letter, he said, “They intuitively know that it is a question of positivity and not negativity, a question of addition and not subtraction. They are every day becoming aware of the fact that it is the affirmative and positive side of everything that shall be stored up, and that this very act of accumulating the affirmative and positive, and therefore soul-building forces of nature, is what destroys the negative and destructive elements in the world.”
### Gracias ♥ Merci ♥ Grazie ♥ Danke ♥ Go Raibh Maith Agat ♥ 谢谢 [Xièxie] ♥ धन्यवाद [Dhanyavāda] ♥ Dankon ♥ ありがとう [Arigatō] ###
An “–” Note & EXCERPTS: “Today in Rock and Roll” & “… some Powerball® thoughts” (the “missing” Sunday post) May 24, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in "Impossible" People, Art, Baha'i, Books, Buddhism, Changing Perspectives, Dharma, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Japa, Japa-Ajapa, Karma, Life, Love, Mantra, Meditation, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Anna Mae Bullock, Annie Dillard, Bob Dylan, chanting, Dechen Shak-Dagsay, Declaration of the Báb, Diotima, em dash, en dash, hyphen, Linda Ellis, mantra, music, Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō, Nat Hentoff, Plato, Regula Curti, Robert Allen Zimmerman, satya, Seventh Sunday of Pascha, Socrates, The Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council, Tina Turner, truth, Uvalde Texas, Woody Guthrie
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Many, many blessings to everyone and especially to anyone celebrating and/or observing the Seventh Sunday of Pascha: The Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council and /or the Declaration of the Báb.
This is “missing” compilation post for Sunday, May 24th, features new content and excerpts. My apologies for not posting before the practice. 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.
“What shall I do this morning? How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. What we do with this hour, and that one, is what we are doing…. living.”
— quoted from “Chapter Two” of The Writing Life by Annie Dillard
At the beginning of Chapter Two of The Writing Life, Annie Dillard quoted Plato’s Symposium, in which Socrates (quoting Diotima) said, “But what if the man could see Beauty Itself, pure, unalloyed, stripped of mortality, and all its pollution, stains, and vanities, unchanging, divine,…the man becoming in that communion, the friend of God, himself immortal;…would that be a life to disregard?” The answer, of course, is no. Neither do we ignore (i.e., disregard) the beauty that comes from someone dealing with all the things we deal with as mere mortals, all the things that come with life, including morality.
Ah, mortality.
On any given day, in any given year, someone is born and someone passes away. When we mark those milestones with celebrations, what we are really celebrating is what happens in between. The en dash [–] in someone’s biography and/or obituary symbolises all that they do while living on this planet we call Earth. All the things we learn and teach; all the people we love (or not); all the things we think; and all the things we say and do are compressed into that en dash, which is longer than a hyphen [-] and shorter than an em dash [—] .
Linda Ellis wrote a famous poem about “The Dash”, which has been quoted at funerals, memorials, and other events. The dash — and what it represents — has been the inspiration for sermons, speeches, and so many songs that I’ve lost track of them. All of that work dovetails and inspires so many lives, so many dashes.
Today is the birthday of Bob Dylan (b. 1941) and the death anniversary of Tina Turner (d. 2023).
Click on the excerpt titles below for more.
“‘The most important thing I know I learned from Woody Guthrie,’ says Dylan, ‘I’m my own person. I’ve got basic common rights-whether I’m here in this country or any other place. I’ll never finish saying everything I feel, but I’ll be doing my part to make some sense out of the way we’re living, and not living, now. All I’m doing is saying what’s on my mind the best way I know how. And whatever else you say about me, everything I do and sing and write comes out of me.’”
— quoted from the liner notes by Nat Hentoff (from Bob Dylan’s album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan)
Sunday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “O5242026 Poems & Meditations with Bob & Tina”]
NOTE: This remix, inspired by both Bob and Tina, includes Tina Turner’s recording of her “Beyond” message (which you can also find in the first embedded link above), an interlude, and “Sound of Mystic Law: Lotus Sutra” (which I referred to as a remix version at the end of the 2026 practice). The YouTube playlist includes an extra Tina video. The extended version of Sound of Mystic Law: Lotus Sutra, which I sometimes use for my personal practice, is only available on YouTube.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not 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).
You’re Invited to Bend… & To Take The Deepest Breath You’ve Taken — On Retreat!
September 25 — 27, 2026
### AUM ###
EXCERPT: “More Songs for the DJ’s Adventure (a remix*)” March 10, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in 19-Day Fast, Art, Baha'i, Dharma, Healing Stories, Hope, Kirtan, Lent / Great Lent, Life, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Ramadan, Religion, Science, Wisdom, Yoga.Tags: 988, music, Rachel Martin, Rick Rubin, Season for Nonviolence
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“Ramaḍān Mubarak, Blessed Ramaḍān!” to anyone observing the holy month of Ramaḍān. Many blessings to all, and especially to those celebrating and/or observing Lent, Great Lent, and/or the Baháʼí 19-Day Fast.
Peace, ease, and unity to all, throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!
“Each of these moments
is an invitation
to further inquiry:
looking deeper,
zooming out, or in.
Opening possibilities
for a new way of being.”
— quoted from the prelude to The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin (b. 1963)
CLICK ON THE EXCERPT TITLE FOR MORE.
“We’re making something with our hearts and souls, and then we’re sharing it with the world. And if people like it, it’s great, and if they don’t, we wouldn’t change it, because we’ve made it with our hearts and souls, and it’s true. It’s a true thing we’re doing.”
— Rick Rubin, quoted from an NPR, All Things Considered interview with Rachel Martin entitled “Rick Rubin on taking communion with Johnny Cash and not rushing creativity” (December 10, 2023)
Please join me today (Tuesday, March 10th) 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 in 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 “03102021 Songs for the DJ’s Adventure”]
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not 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.
### AUM (is the bassline and the baseline) ###
Believing in the Power… [of Music & Connections] (the “missing” Tuesday post with excerpts) February 3, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, Baseball, Faith, Football, Healing Stories, Health, Hope, Loss, Minnesota, Music, One Hoop, Philosophy, Religion, Science, Suffering, Tragedy, Yoga.Tags: 988, Believing, Bill Griggs, Branch Rickey, Buddy Holly, Carl Rogers Young, Carnival, Charles Follis, Charles Follis Foundation, David Shul, Don McLean, Dr. Mike Miller, J. P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson, Jonathan Cain, Journey, Lenny Kaye, Michael Franti, Mishlei, music, Neal Joseph Schon, Proverbs, Ritchie Valens, Roger Peterson, Season for Nonviolence, Spearhead, Stephen Ray Perry, Val Willingham, Yoga Sutra 3.35
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“Happy Carnival!” to those who are celebrating! Many blessings to everyone, everywhere.
Peace, ease, contemplation, and a little faith (believing) throughout this “Season for Nonviolence” and all other seasons!!!
This is the “missing” compilation post for Tuesday, February 3rd. It includes a little note and a series of date-related excerpts. You can request an audio recording of this practice or a previous 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.
“For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.”
— Proverbs (New King James Version, 23:7)
Bring your awareness to what you believe, in your heart of hearts and in the back of your mind. “Believing” is the “Season for Nonviolence” principle of the day and it highlights the fact that what we believe, in our heart of hearts, shapes our thoughts, words, and deeds — and, by extension, the world. Patanjali made this point in Yoga Sūtra 3.35 (which is 3.33 or 3.34 in some translations), when he indicated that “By practicing samyama (focus-concentration-meditation] on the heart, knowledge of the mind is attained.”
So, what (or who) is in your heart? Do you believe “the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost”? Do you believe “in God above”? Some people do and some of those people (in the Western Christian traditions) are finishing up the final weeks of their pre-Lenten season, while others (in the Orthodox Christian traditions) are just beginning their pre-Lenten season. Regardless of which calendar they use (or the different ways they do it), these are all people who are preparing for the weeks-long ritual Lent, which is a very intentional — and, sometimes, very public-facing — expression of what they believe.
We can believing in things that are limiting our possibilites and/or things that expand our horizons. For instance, do you you can make a difference in the world? Do you believe you can make a difference in the world doing something you love? If not, have I got a story for you.
“On October 17, 1903, [Branch] Rickey felt the ‘Black Cyclone’s’ full power when he ran their ends dizzy for 20, 25, 35 and 70 yard gains, the last being a touchdown. After that game Rickey praised Follis, calling him ‘a wonder.’ It was the power of his example, his character, and his grace that convinced Rickey, that color could not belie his greatness. The rest is history….”
— quoted from the “Background” section of the Charles Follis Foundation website
Click on the excerpt title to learn about Charles “The Black Cyclone” Follis, born today in 1879.
“For years, [Dr. Mike Miller], a research cardiologist, has been studying the effects of happiness — or things that make people happy — on our hearts. He began his research with laughter, and found watching funny movies and laughing at them could actually open up blood vessels, allowing blood to circulate more freely.
Miller thought, if laughter can do that, why not music? So, he tested the effects of music on the cardiovascular system. ‘Turns out music may be one of the best de-stressors — either by playing or even listening to music,’ said Miller.”
— quoted from a 2009 CNN Health segment entitled, “The power of music: It’s a real heart opener” by Val Willingham, CNN Medical Producer
“Now do you believe in rock and roll / Can music save your mortal soul?” And, what happens if the music died, as it did today in 1959? Would you believe that the show must go on?
Click on the excerpt title to learn more about the music, the musicians, and the tragic accident that happened today in 1959.
“Everyone deserves music, sweet music”
— quoted from the song “Everyone Deserves Music” by Michael Franti & Spearhead (written by Michael Franti, David Shul, Carl Rogers Young)
Tuesday’s playlist is available on YouTube and Spotify. [Look for “02032021 The Day the Music Died”]
NOTE: The YouTube playlist has the Tommy Dee version of “Three Stars” during the practice and the Eddie Cochran version in the before/after music. The Spotify playlist has Cochran’s version during the practice and Charlie Gracie’s song “I’m Alright,” a tribute to Eddie Cochran, in the before/after music.
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not 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).
### “Don’t Stop Believin’!” ~J ###
EXCERPT: “Understanding [Your] Karma & Putting Cash in Your Karmic Bank Account” January 13, 2026
Posted by ajoyfulpractice in Art, California, Donate, Faith, Healing Stories, Hope, Karma, Karma Yoga, Life, Music, Mysticism, One Hoop, Philosophy, Volunteer, Wisdom, Writing, Yoga.Tags: 988, Carl Perkins, Folsom State Prison, inspiration, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Karma, Karma Yoga, kriya, kriyā, music, Statler Brothers, The Tennessee Three, Yoga Sutra 2.1, Yoga Sutra 2.12
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May your mind-body-spirit be well, be great, and be in harmony with your thoughts, words, and deeds.
“Well, you wonder why I always dress in black
Why you never see bright colors on my back
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone
Well, there’s a reason for the things that I have on”
— quoted from the song “The Man in Black” by Johnny Cash
Today in 1968, Johnny Cash, June Carter (who wouldn’t become a Cash until March 1, 1968), Carl Perkins, The Tennessee Three, and the Statler Brothers performed and recorded two (2) concerts at Folsom State Prison in Folsom, California.
CLICK ON THE EXCEPT TITLE BELOW FOR MORE.
“I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down
Livin’ in the hopeless, hungry side of town
I wear it for the prisoner who is long paid for his crime
But is there because he’s a victim of the times”
— quoted from the song “The Man in Black” by Johnny Cash
Please join me today (Tuesday, January 13th) 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 in 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. [“01132021 Karma Cash I”]
“Each week we lose a hundred fine young men
And I wear it for the thousands who have died
Believin’ that the Lord was on their side
I wear it for another hundred-thousand who have died
Believin’ that we all were on their side
… Well, there’s things that never will be right, I know
And things need changin’ everywhere you go
But ’til we start to make a move to make a few things right
You’ll never see me wear a suit of white
Ah, I’d love to wear a rainbow every day
And tell the world that everything’s okay
But I’ll try to carry off a little darkness on my back
’Til things are brighter, I’m the man in black”
— quoted from the song “The Man in Black” by Johnny Cash
If you are thinking about suicide, worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, you can dial 988 (in the US) or call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call this TALK line if you are struggling with addiction or involved in an abusive relationship. The Lifeline network is free, confidential, and available to all 24/7. YOU CAN TALK ABOUT ANYTHING.
White Flag is an app, which I have not 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.
