The Yoga of Peace, Love, and Understanding

The Yoga of Forgiveness

2009-04-04T21:07:00.003-04:00

Today I read an online story about an aging racist who now regrets the violence he committed against black people during the civil rights era. He has been offering personal apologies to those he has wronged, including one who is now a Congressman that he had punched in the face, a neighbor he had threatened for objecting to an effigy hung in his yard, and many others.

As this man asks for forgiveness and blessing, and receives it, he says he feels as if a great burden has been lifted from his body. He was sure that if he died without making things right with those he had hurt he would spend eternity in Hell. Now, he feels more at peace and doesn't even know why he originally felt such anger and hatred towards black people.

In the tradition of Ayurveda, of which Yoga is considered part, anger and hatred would be considered "tamasic". Tamas is a quality of heaviness, darkness. In some ways, tamas is useful; it provides a grounding quality to our lives, it allows for manifestation of ideas. But in excess tamas creates inertia, lethargy, negativity.

To create balance in our minds we need the quality of sattva, or light. By associating with positive people, watching uplifting or inspirational programs, listening to beautiful music, even thinking positive thoughts we create a lightness of being that counteracts the darkness that sometimes settles in. Even just taking a walk in the garden on a sunny day raises the spirit after a long period of cloudy weather.

And finding the courage to ask for forgiveness from someone we have wronged unburdens not only our soul but that of the one who grants it.....

Ahimsa in Real Life

2008-09-25T18:18:00.003-04:00

If you've been following the news lately, you're aware of the latest scandal/crisis/political football. The financial meltdown now occurring is a wonderful opportunity to learn how NOT practicing ahimsa (non-harming) in your life and work can have horrible consequences.

Unfortunately in our system of government/finances/daily life those responsible may not be held accountable for what they've done to others (unless the fallout causes widespread collapse and causes EVERYONE to suffer). But it's easy to see the damage done to those least able to save themselves - those whose investments have been wiped out, whose jobs have been eliminated, who have lost their homes. The ripples are now spreading to businesses once thought strong - a Pennsylvania department store chain that made the mistake of starting an aggressive expansion into Maryland and now is out of business, not only laying off hundreds of workers but shuttering stores which were anchors at the malls they inhabited; a major energy company abruptly sold when it couldn't raise enough cash to cover their short term debts; and there will be many more before the damage is done with and order is restored.

Ahimsa as a spiritual practice first begins with the self - how can I do business without harming myself? and should then progress to one's inner circle - how can I do business without harming those I do business with or who work for or with me? and should finish with the effects on the wider community - how do I do business without harming those who may depend on how I do business and how well I do with my business?

In the current crisis, many business people thought only of how they could do well for themselves and did not consider how their actions would affect others. Now that the harm is becoming impossible to ignore these same business people are now seeking to avoid taking responsibility for their actions while simultaneously pushing the burden on the wider community for decades to come.

If you are of a certain age, you should remember that this has all happened before. The Savings & Loan scandal of the '80s was another recent example of how greed caused seemingly upstanding citizens to harm others in their quest for more than they really needed. The Great Depression of the 30's (which is now being resurrected as an image of where we might be headed), the Teapot Dome, countless sack and plunder operations big and small through the ages only illustrate the continuing need for human beings to continually train their minds, their egos, and abilities to remember that every being wishes to live well and be happy while providing the same to their families.

Every religion and ethical system on this Earth provides guidelines for ethical living: Buddhism's Eightfold Path, Christianity and Judaism have the Ten Commandments, Yoga has the Yamas and Niyamas. It shouldn't be that difficult to implement these guidelines; all it takes is ongoing guidance from parents (as well as parents providing the appropriate examples) during childhood and the inner strength to know that doing right by others equals doing right by oneself.

The rewards may not be as financially lucrative but the rewards of helping others rise as you do (as opposed to rising by pushing others down) will ultimately strengthen us all and keep us safe from such meltdowns in the future.

okay, so it's been awhile!

2008-07-17T20:40:00.006-04:00

I've got some good excuses - my dialup account went belly-up so now I have to pay more than double for broadband (on the bright side, it's faster most of the time, on the dim side it goes out every time it rains...); I've been busy trying to find new places to teach (in a down economy, so many give up what can keep them calm and focused because it seems expensive - but how expensive is failing physical and/or emotional health?).

I have been steadily acquiring private clients - those who not only have the money to invest in their personal well-being but the dedication to practice what they are taught on their own between sessions. Unlike many who take a group class one or more times per week, these folks are learning to really "listen" to their bodies and pay attention to what happens when they practice. This leads to a greater understanding of their "routine" beyond mere memorization.

One of my most recent clients, a young mother whose fitness had declined after birth (happens so many times, as personal desires are sublimated to the needs of the child) has begun to realize that her nature is to push too hard and this is what leads to injury. Coming to this insight on her own is much more meaningful than having anyone simply tell her about it or suggesting that she back off. Now she KNOWS because she has learned to observe her self in action. Now comes the struggle to learn to control her impulses before she goes too far. Since she is highly motivated to do this she should master self-control fairly quickly. She has already gained a great deal of strength over a mere five weeks of training!

A new development is in the works - adding classes for credit at another local university. I have very much enjoyed teaching my two for credit sections at the University of Maryland Baltimore County twice per year. The students may not come to class with yoga experience (some do) or a high level of fitness (some are very fit, others not so much) but they do come with alot of enthusiasm (though I did hear one young woman say after an early class (she thought she was out of my earshot) "that was SOOOO boring!"

My approach to these classes is to start from the very beginning (and slowly - it's not easy recovering from a 2 or 3 hour class!) and give them just enough to begin practicing on their own. Since each section meets twice per week, the students are asked to practice an additional 4 times, just the first sun salutation, until it's fairly easy. I make sure to add that this will make them less sore, since we add on to the routine very quickly.

Some students have reported losing weight during these classes - most recently, one student said she lost 7 pounds in the first three weeks of class! Since I also discuss proper diet (cutting out processed and refined foods in favor of natural whole foods, etc) and good sleep habits even those who don't lose weight report building strength, endurance, flexibility, clearer thinking, calmer demeanor, and deeper sleep.

In a world seemingly falling apart, it is important to practice "inner cultivation", as my Qigong master Zhongxian Wu says. Those who learn to keep their own lives together will be the ones to put the world back together again once the mindless masses figure out that their mindless attachments to material gain and power over others are not working out for anyone...

The Whole Human

2007-11-24T20:56:00.000-05:00

"To be human
is to become visible
while carrying
what is hidden
as a gift to others."

excerpt from What to Remember When Waking by David Whyte, contained in the collection The House of Belonging published by Many Rivers Press

To be a "whole" human, according to the principles of Yoga, is to unite body, mind, and spirit. True health cannot separate any of these three components; if one is weak, the others will eventually weaken. As we learn to strengthen one area, often the others will follow. There is no one right way to begin; some begin by strengthening the body, others the mind, and still others focus on the spirit.

The Ashtanga Yoga method, taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, begins with physical training; a strong, supple body becomes a fit vehicle for the spirit and trains the practitioner to apply the principle of non-harming first to the self and then by extension to others.

The word "ashtanga" means "eight limbs" in the Sanskrit language. The physical limb, "Asana", is the 3rd limb or component of the complete practice. The other limbs are:
Yama (personal ethics)
Niyama (personal observances)
Asana (physical training)
Pranayama (proper breathing)
Pratyahara (withdrawal from negative influence, opening to positive influence)
Dharana (concentration)
Dhyana (meditation)
Samadhi (union)

The physical practice of Yoga is mere gymnastics if the other limbs are ignored; one need not be perfect, everyone's growth will not be at the same rate. Some will become quite proficient at advanced postures but run the risk of developing an egotistical attachment to their demonstration and the attention that the less gifted may bestow on them. Others may be unable to perform even the simplest postures while developing formidable intellectual talents. And how many of us have had the honor of being in the presence of a "saint"? These saints live in bliss and feel unconditional love for all they meet but they often have no formal education and may never practice a formal asana routine. Some may even be physically disabled.

As you begin your own practice, avoid judging yourself by what you see others do. Concentrate on your own practice, and each time you finish simply note what you have accomplished without applying a value to it. Your practice is not "good", or "bad", or "fruitful", it simply is what it is today.

The longer you practice, the more you will see the wisdom in it and the more you will be able to see how to apply the principles to every aspect of your daily life.

Food

2007-02-07T16:52:00.000-05:00

The politics of food in this country encourages large corporations to gobble up smaller ones (economy of scale), large "farmers" to buy up small family farms and mechanize the operations, or companies to purchase produce and meat from cheaper foreign farmers. The goverment has declared food to be a commodity - food is merely food, it matters not, it is simply fuel, a calorie is just a calorie. Shove it in your mouth, it goes in one end and comes out the other eventually.

Ancient wisdom teaches us differently; we are what we eat. This is why all traditions teach us to say "grace" before meals - we should be grateful for the bounty of the Earth, the sacrifice the living things have made for us so that we may continue our own existance and spiritual development. We need to remain mindful of the source of our food, how it is grown, how it is prepared, how it tastes.

The best food for us is that which is fresh, seasonal, and local. If it has been grown in good soil, it will be full of nutrients. Good, balanced soil doesn't need fertilizers; the plants will be strong and healthy and will not attract pests that "require" harmful pesticides. The farmer can rely on natural methods that attract beneficial insects and birds to the land. After harvest, what is left is returned to the soil to enrich it for the next crop. The natural farmer also interplants crops that are beneficial to each other as well as to the human, and allows for continual harvests.

Commercial farms, by contrast, plant "mono-crops" - one thing such as a single variety of corn (often genetically engineered) which is susceptible to blight, drought, insect infestation. The cycle of plant, harvest, spray, leave the field bare depletes the soil within a few years; how depleted do you think the corn is? Then the corn is further "refined" - stripped of its nutrients (what might be left) - as it's made into cereal, and then a few vitamins and minerals are added back in. By the time you get that box of cereal from the store, that corn may have spent months on its journey from the field.

Then there's the issue of compassion for animals raised for meat, egg, and dairy consumption. Yes, animals have feelings - how many of you have animal companions? Have you ever watched a nature program that shows how wild animals raise their young? Domestic animals are the same - given the choice, they will care for their children as tenderly as any human parent. They feel pain, they feel love and affection, they feel resentment and anger. They deserve to be given adequate shelter, space to move, and the opportunity to socialize with others of their kind. When their time comes, it should come swiftly so they feel as little pain and fear as possible. The Jewish and Muslim rules for slaughter teach this. Tribal peoples taught this as a rule for hunting, as an animal which suffered was unfit to eat. This issue of compassion for animals has caused many to become vegetarian (one who may eat eggs or dairy) or vegan (one who eats no eggs or dairy).

It is not impossible to wean yourself from the Big Farm Diet. Begin with small things like vegetables (you will find that buying local produce is often cheaper - no plastic packaging!), especially once the farmers' markets open. Consider joining a CSA (community supported agriculture) group in your area - you can join with other families in your block and pool your resources and divide what you get. The farmers will often give you recipes for anything unfamiliar, give you samples to taste, may even host cooking lessons!

Then, invite your friends over for dinner and share your newfound cooking skills and hook them onto the Think Global/Buy Local express!

Those who are born are born of food.
Whoever reaches this Earth, from then on they subsist on food.
And in the end, they go back to it.
Food is the eldest among created things,
That is why it is called the universal medicine.

Tattiriya Upanishad

Seven Practices for Peacemakers

2007-01-18T19:00:00.000-05:00

by Deepak Chopra

How to end war
One person at a time

War is the plague that human beings bring upon themselves. It is also a plague we might be able to end. On any given day since you and I were born, some part of the world has been at war–in 2003 the total number of open conflicts was thirty. In the twentieth century at least 108 million people died in wars. Of the 20 largest military budgets on earth, 14 belong to developing countries. The United States spends more on its military than the next 16 countries combined.
That war is the major problem in the world is undeniable.
The need for a new idea is just as undeniable.
The new idea is to bring peace one person at a time until the world reaches a critical mass of peacemakers instead of warmakers.

"There is no way to peace. Peace is the way." – Mahatma Gandhi

Why Ending War Hasn't Worked
Peace movements have tried three ways for bringing war to an end:
Activism, the approach of putting political pressure on governments that wage war. Activism involves protests and public demonstrations, lobbying and political commitment. Almost every war creates some kind of peace movement opposed to it.
Why has it failed?
Because the protesters are not heard.
Because they are worn down by frustration and resistance.
Because they are far outnumbered by the war interests in society.
Because their idealism turns to anger and violence.
Activism has left us with the ironic picture of outraged peacemakers who wind up contributing to the total sum of violence in the world.

Humanitarianism, the approach of helping the victims of war. Bringing relief to victims is an act of kindness and compassion. As embodied by the International Red Cross, this effort is ongoing and attracts thousands of volunteers worldwide. Every nation on earth approves of humanitarianism.
Why has it failed?
Because humanitarians are wildly outnumbered by soldiers and warmakers.
Because of finances. The International Red Cross's annual budget of $1.8 billion dollars is a tiny fraction of military budgets around the world.
Because the same countries that wage war also conduct humanitarian efforts, keeping the two activities very separate.
Because humanitarians show up on the scene after the war has already begun.

Personal transformation, the approach of ending war one person at a time. The prevailing idea is that war begins in each human heart and can only end there. The religious tradition of praying for peace is the closest most people will ever come to ending war in their own hearts. Most people have actually never heard of this approach.
Why has it failed?
Because nobody has really tried it.

"Can you be the change that you wish to see in the world?" – Mahatma Gandhi

Why War Ends With You
The approach of personal transformation is the idea of the future for ending war. It depends on the only advantage that people of peace have over warmakers: sheer numbers. If enough people in the world transformed themselves into peacemakers, war could end. The leading idea here is critical mass. It took a critical mass of human beings to embrace electricity and fossil fuels, to teach evolution and adopt every major religion. When the time is right and enough people participate, critical mass can change the world.
Can it end war?
There is precedent to believe that it might. The ancient Indian ideal of Ahimsa, or non-violence, gave Gandhi his guiding principle of reverence for life. In every spiritual tradition it is believed that peace must exist in one's heart before it can exist in the outer world.
Personal transformation deserves a chance.

"When a person is established in non-violence, those in his vicinity cease to feel hostility." – Patanjali, ancient Indian sage

Seven Practices for Peace

The program for peacemakers asks you to follow a specific practice every day, each one centered on the theme of peace.
Sunday: Being for Peace
Monday: Thinking for Peace
Tuesday: Feeling for Peace
Wednesday: Speaking for Peace
Thursday: Acting for Peace
Friday: Creating for Peace
Saturday: Sharing for Peace
Our hope is that you will create peace on every level of your life. Each practice takes only a few minutes. You can be as private or outspoken as you wish. But those around you will know that you are for peace, not just through good intentions but by the way you conduct your life on a daily basis.

Sunday: Being for Peace
Today, take 5 minutes to meditate for peace. Sit quietly with your eyes closed. Put your attention on your heart and inwardly repeat these four words: Peace, Harmony, Laughter, Love. Allow these words to radiate from your heart's stillness out into your body.
As you end your meditation, say to yourself, "Today I will relinquish all resentments and grievances." Bring into your mind anyone against whom you have a grievance and let it go. Send that person your forgiveness.

Monday: Thinking for Peace
Thinking has power when it is backed by intention. Today, introduce the intention of peace in your thoughts. Take a few moments of silence, then repeat this ancient prayer:
Let me be loved, let me be happy, let me be peaceful.
Let my friends be happy, loved, and peaceful.
Let my perceived enemies be happy, loved, and peaceful.
Let all beings be happy, loved, and peaceful.
Let the whole world experience these things.
Any time during the day if you are overshadowed by fear or anger, repeat these intentions. Use this prayer to get back on center.

Tuesday: Feeling for Peace
This is the day to experience the emotions of peace. The emotions of peace are compassion, understanding, and love.
Compassion is the feeling of shared suffering. When you feel someone else's suffering, there is the birth of understanding.
Understanding is the knowledge that suffering is shared by everyone. When you understand that you aren't alone in your suffering, there is the birth of love.
When there is love there is the opportunity for peace.
As your practice, observe a stranger some time during your day. Silently say to yourself, "This person is just like me.. Like me, this person has experienced joy and sorrow, despair and hope, fear and love. Like me, this person has people in his or her life who deeply care and love them. Like me, this person's life is impermanent and will one day end. This person's peace is as important as my peace. I want peace, harmony, laughter, and love in their life and the life of all beings."

Wednesday: Speaking for Peace
Today, the purpose of speaking is to create happiness in the listener. Have this intention: Today every word I utter will be chosen consciously. I will refrain from complaints, condemnation, and criticism.
Your practice is to do at least one of the following:
Tell someone how much you appreciate them.
Express genuine gratitude to those who have helped and loved you.
Offer healing or nurturing words to someone who needs them.
Show respect to someone whose respect you value.
If you find that you are reacting negatively to anyone, in a way that isn't peaceful, refrain from speaking and keep silent. Wait to speak until you feel centered and calm, and then speak with respect.

Thursday: Acting for Peace
Today is the day to help someone in need: A child, a sick person, an older or frail person. Help can take many forms. Tell yourself, " Today I will bring a smile to a stranger's face. If someone acts in a hurtful way to me or someone else, I will respond with a gesture of loving kindness. I will send an anonymous gift to someone, however small. I will offer help without asking for gratitude or recognition."

Friday: Creating for Peace
Today, come up with at least one creative idea to resolve a conflict, either in your personal life or your family circle or among friends. If you can, try and create an idea that applies to your community, the nation, or the whole world.
You may change an old habit that isn't working, look at someone a new way, offer words you never offered before, or think of an activity that brings people together in good feeling and laughter.

Saturday: Sharing for Peace
Today, share your practice of peacemaking with two people. Give them this information and invite them to begin the daily practice. As more of us participate in this sharing, our practice will expand into a critical mass.
Today joyfully celebrate your own peace consciousness with at least one other peace-conscious person. Connect either trough e-mail or phone.
Share your experience of growing peace.
Share your gratitude that someone else is as serious about peace as you are.
Share your ideas for helping the world move closer to critical mass.
Do whatever you can, in small or large ways, to assist anyone who wants to become a peacemaker.

The Best Reason to Become a Peacemaker
Now you know the program. If you transform yourself into a peacemaker, you won't become an activist marching in the streets. You will not be "anti" anything. No money is required. All you are asked to do is to go within and dedicate yourself to peace.
It just might work.
Even if you don't immediately see a decline in violence around the world, you will know in your heart that you have dedicated your own life to peace.
But the single best reason to become a peacemaker is that every other approach has failed.
We don't know what number the critical mass is--the best we can hope is to bring about change by personal transformation. Isn't it worth a few moments of your day to end 30 wars around the world and perhaps every future war that is certain to break out?

"War is like cancer: it will only get worse if we don't prevent it and heal it." Deepak Chopra

Right now there are 21.3 million soldiers serving in armies around the world. Can't we recruit a peace brigade ten times larger?
A hundred times larger?
The effort begins now, with you.

"It is an illusion to think that military strength and weapons create security. Security and peace can only be obtained by those who are peaceful and defenseless."
Deepak Chopra

Sun Salutations

2007-01-14T19:36:00.000-05:00

To see the original, go to their website - they also have an mp3 file of the chanting that is done with each position. This Surya Namaskar is like a cross between the Ashtanga A & B and a little easier to do (except for the chanting performed at the same time!) You don't have to a million yourself, just do what you can and be consistent and then report what you do each week to their website (listed below. be sure to register with them!). Namaste hon!)
Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (USA)

Invites everyone to participate in
Surya Namaskar Yagna
(Sun Salutation to manifest the Divinity within)
Date: Jan 13, 2007 to Jan 28, 2007

(Makar Sankranti to Ratha Saptami)
Ø Introduce and practice Yoga in our daily life
ØSimple asanas for physical and intellectual development
ØLead a very healthy lifestyle with eternal bliss

To participate in the yagna:

1. Visit Shakha/Balagokulum near you or http://www.hssus.org/sny
2. Learn how to do Surya namaskar
3. Do Surya namaskar at home everyday and keep count
4. Give the total count to your coordinator

v Goal: 5000 Participants and 1,000,000 Suryanamaskars

v Participating kids will receive a certificate

Contact Address

Email: sny@hssus.org

http://www.hssus.org/sny

Surya Namaskar Positions

10
ॐ Mitraaya Namah
ॐ Ravaye Namah
ॐ Suryaaya Namah
ॐ Bhaanave Namah
ॐ Khagaaya Namah
ॐ Puushne Namah
ॐ Hiranyagarbhaaya Namah
ॐ Mareechaye Namah
ॐ Aadityaaya Namah
ॐ Savitre Namah
ॐ Arkaaya Namah
ॐ Bhaaskaraaya Namah
ॐ Shree Savitru Suurya Naaraayanaaya Namah
9 1
8 2
7 3
6 4
5

Recycling: the Gift of Shaucha

2007-01-11T18:45:00.000-05:00

Shaucha is the first Niyama, meaning cleanliness or purity of body, mind, spirit, and environment.

From an article posted by YogaMates.com, on the Zero Waste movement:

7 SIMPLE STEPS TO TRASHING YOUR TRASHCAN

Let’s face it — we know better than to dispose when we should be Reusing, Reducing and Recycling. But we’re busy, forgetful and, well, does it really make that big of a difference? You know the answer. So clip out these friendly reminders on how to bring your personal waste closer to zero. Just think: you’ll never have to take out the trash again!

1. Feed the garden<
Think like nature for a moment — why would you throw away all those food scraps, when they could be transformed into beautiful, nourishing garden compost? Over 60 percent of municipal waste could be composted — so find a more productive resting place for your banana peels.

2. Have bag, will shop
Of course, this one we know by heart. And it’s still true. Carry canvas bags everywhere you go — put them in your car, tie them to your bike — and you’ll have a final answer to the “paper or plastic” question.

3. Sort it out
Recycling rates have taken a downturn recently. Are we losing faith in the power of recycling? It still works! If you want your recyclables to be put to the highest possible use, sort them well. “Single stream” recyclables — as opposed to glass bottles mixed with paper — make for better recycled materials.

4. Think bulk
Brenda Platt of ILSR makes a point of buying groceries in bulk. Rather than buy single-serve applesauce cups for her kids, she opts for the big jar and scoops it into smaller containers herself. Simple? Yes. But simple is key.

5. Positive reinforcement
It’s the same technique we use for supporting fair trade companies and organic farms. Support those companies that are making a point to reduce their waste — and avoid the rest. Eric Lombardi, of Eco-Cycle, says we’ve got to “reward the recyclers. The clean companies must win the profits.”

6. Shrink wrap
What better motivation to waste less than reducing the size of your trash receptacle at home? Substitute a small plastic grocery bag for your trashcan, and wiser purchasing habits will follow naturally.

7. Your Trash, Their Treasure
Repeat after me: there is no “junk,” there’s only useful stuff yet to find a home. Before you look to the landfill, consider giving your broken fridge or over-lounged loveseat a chance at a happier second life by posting it for giveaway on websites like Freecycle.org or SwapThing.com. And PlanetGreenInc.com will actually buy your spent ink-jets, conked-out laser cartridges and defunct cell phones for their recycle program, giving the money generated to charity.

Andi McDaniel is a Minneapolis-based freelance writer and regular contributor to Whole Life Times. Her work has appeared in Utne, Ode and Experience Life.

e-Sutra: The Worldwide Yoga List: In memoriam: Thom Birch 1954 - 2006

2006-12-24T18:58:00.000-05:00

e-Sutra: The Worldwide Yoga List: In memoriam: Thom Birch 1954 - 2006

Remembering Thom

2006-12-24T17:48:00.000-05:00

Our tribute class to Thom Birch was held at the Yoga Center of Columbia on Tuesday December 19, 2006 with 12 in attendance. Some were my students from around the area, some had never taken Ashtanga Yoga before, and a few who could not attend at all sent money anyway but all were happy for the opportunity to use their practice to honor a man they had never met in order to raise money for a worthy cause - autism research. We raised about $300 (I don't know the exact total, they were still counting as I was straightening up) and a good time was had by all.

Thom lived his life in service to others; I hope to do the same.

May all beings be happy and free from fear!

Thank you, Thom

2006-11-22T15:19:00.000-05:00

>===== Original Message From Doug Swenson =====
>To Thom Birch,
>
> Thanks for being real - touching many minds with running, Yoga, Music and your friendship. We will all miss you - yet your spirit lives on with all of us forever ( Eternal life ).
>
> Namaste, Doug

Tribute to Thom Birch

2006-11-20T15:22:00.000-05:00

(1/18/1954 -11/9/2006)

Thank you for coming. Please join us in celebrating the life of Thom Birch. For those of you who did not know Thom, he was an incredibly gifted athlete, musician, and teacher. His intense enthusiasm for life and his personal charisma touched and enhanced the lives of all who knew him. Thom loved people and was always there for anyone in need.

Growing up in the Bronx, Thom overcame a childhood of constant struggle to become a world class runner. He attended the University of Houston on a full track and field scholarship, becoming the Most Valuable Athlete of his graduating class. After returning to New York in l982, he went on to become an exceptional yoga teacher, touching the lives of tens of thousands of runners and athletes in his classes through the New York Road Runners Club in New York City from l986-2002. He helped to heal and inspire many an injured runner, himself coming back from a career ending injury to regain a national title in 1985. His mental and physical training as a runner always put him a few steps ahead of most everyone else – which helped him to act almost instantaneously and save the lives of three people over the past 20 years – one from choking to death, one from drowning after being carried out to a reef on an ocean current, and the last from burning to death in a blazing car accident.

In the last 5 years, Thom retired from teaching and went on to pursue his first love in life, ---music. Thom has been singing since he was a child and was always singing to his students in yoga classes. He went full time into music with the same dedication that he had devoted to attaining world class status as an athlete, teaching himself the intricacies of lead guitar and practicing for hours and hours a day. He played at many of the clubs and cafes on the East End of Long Island and was scheduled for his 6th show at the famous Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett this December.

Thom touched many lives through his life as a runner, teacher, and musician. His energy lives on in those who knew him, through the many gifts he has given us. We all carry his stories, his energy, his music, and his struggles in our hearts every day.

Beryl greatly appreciates the support from her world family.

Donations

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the
name of Thomas Edward Birch to:
Autism Speaks, a division of National Alliance
for Autism Research)
or

The Mount Sinai Medical Neurobiological Study
of Brain Disorders at:

The Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and
Bronx VA Medical Center
Psychiatry Research, 4F-33B
Bronx VA Medical Center
130 West Kingsbridge Road
Bronx, NY 10468
(please note Haroutunian:
Neurobiology Research Program in the memo)

(visit the original page at http://www.power-yoga.com)

I will miss you, my brother...

2006-11-20T15:21:00.000-05:00

Thom Birch lived his life as a gift to others. Intense, sometimes moody, always passionate about running, yoga, and music, and especially devoted to the love of his life, Beryl.

At teacher training he would tell us stories about his early life, his running career, the injury that ended it, and the yoga practice that gave it new life. He would speak of Beryl, who taught him that yoga practice, with tears of gratitude pouring down his face and had us all in tears ourselves. Then he would tell us about her weakness for dogs (Siberian Huskies in particular) that would have us in stitches...

I shared a SouthWest Air flight to Texas one year on the way to a yoga conference at which they were presenting. The flight attendants had a reputation for rambunctious readings of the safety rules and other shenanigans, and Thom was primed and ready. When they tossed the peanuts down the aisle, he caught 'em and threw them back! He matched them wisecrack for wisecrack, keeping everyone around his seat rolling on the floor (and Beryl pretending to hide in her seat, muttering "I do NOT know this man!" while giggling). And the closer we got to the Lone Star State, the thicker his drawl got....

Thom's approach to teaching yoga was "If it ain't fun, it ain't yoga!"; while so many take themselves so seriously and treat their practice like they're in church, he would break into show tunes, crack jokes, whatever it took to make practice enjoyable - if you don't love what you do, how will you do it for a lifetime? Look for beauty, look for humor, sacredness can be found in the smallest details usually overlooked.

Ultimately, yoga is music made manifest by the physical body. Many yogis find additional benefit through music - nada yoga. Thom lived his dream of making wonderful music (you can find his album on CD Baby) and while we missed his skillful asana teaching, it was worth it to see the look on Beryl's face when she watched Thom sing. His cover of Redemption Song was awesome, his original takes on kirtan chants inspiring.

I will miss you, my brother.

Enjoy life today, tomorrow you may be elsewhere...

2006-11-19T21:25:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,
Thom Birch (1/18/1954 - 11/9/2006)
My greatest teacher, my sweet soulmate and husband, Thom Birch died suddenly and instantly of a massive heartattack in the very early morning of Thursday, November 9. Please take a moment to join me in celebrating his life with all our family and friends. For those of you who were friends and knew Thom, please would you join us over the weekend in playing Thom's CD, playing the music of his mentor and teacher, Carlos Santana, retelling his wonderful stories, and remembering your personal experiences. We wish him joyful travels in his journey to his next lifetime, and we know he will be playing his guitar, singing Amazing Grace, and telling more stories all the way. Please visit our website at www.power-yoga.com for our tribute to Thom and information on services (Nov. 12-13) Please contact lori@power-yoga.com if you need immediate assistance.
Celebrate Impermanence
In love and light
Beryl Bender Birch

e-Sutra: The Worldwide Yoga List: 1938 Video of Sri T. Krishnamacharya Practicing Asana and Bandhas

2006-11-19T21:22:00.000-05:00

e-Sutra: The Worldwide Yoga List: 1938 Video of Sri T. Krishnamacharya Practicing Asana and Bandhas

Yoga and Research

2006-08-21T14:36:00.000-04:00

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) has sponsored and published a study on how Yoga benefits its practitioners. Using two groups, one attending a 1 hour class three times per week and the other performing no exercise (both groups were recruited from a sedentary population with no Yoga experience), this study clearly shows that many of the standard fitness parameters are addressed with such a limited amount of exposure.

To address the issue of Cardiorespiratory fitness, the study authors also studied a 1 hour power Yoga class; this found that modest benefits can be gained by attending a more vigorous class.

However, no Western study to date (that I know of) has studied traditional Yoga (practicing 6 days per week as recommended by the Gurus) or the Ashtanga method as taught by Pattabhi Jois. The practice of Ashtanga Yoga becomes quite vigorous and aerobic with the entire "routine" taking about 90 minutes to complete. Many of those who begin this method have found that they have lost bodyfat/weight (losing inches) while becoming stronger, and also notice that they are less winded during daily activities such as climbing stairs. Surely this shows an aerobic benefit is possible. Will the research community step up and study this phenomenon? The difference between "health club" yoga and traditional Yoga is like the difference between walking and running.

Perhaps a new study can be designed that contrasts the differences between the sedentary group, the typical health club 1 hour format, and the traditional method of 90 minute to two hour classes with practitioners practicing on their own so that everyone in that group gets six days per week under their belts. And yes, each person can work at their own pace (the essence of Mysore style is that the asana is modified for the student, not making the student practice asana that is inappropriate for their level of ability). I believe it can be done.

Om shanti!

The Meaning of Yoga

2006-08-16T13:51:00.000-04:00

When we think of Yoga in the West, we nearly always think of it in physical terms - the asanas, the workout, the focus on the body. The first four limbs (angas) in Ashtanga Yoga, the Yamas, Niyamas, Asana, and Pranayama, all concern the external practice of Yoga. For most Western practitioners, this is the gateway to deeper practices which are what makes Yoga a spiritual quest also.

Reading about the journeys of others often can help us make the transition to a more meaningful Yoga practice, inspiring us to make changes in our behavior and lifestyle. Many of the teachers who lead workshops and retreats on a national or international level share their experiences with us so that we can grow and deepen. Even if we never "advance" physically to those pretzel-looking poses we see in calendars, we can still find the flower of spiritual meaning awaken within us as we learn to see our own journeys in those of others.

Cut and paste the link below to read one such journey, written by well known Power Yoga teacher Bryan Kest. It is also listed on the sidebar as a hot link...
http://www.poweryoga.com/aboutyoga/aboutbryan.php#teacher

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step....

Pranayama - BREATHE!

2006-08-06T19:50:00.000-04:00

In order to practice Asana correctly, one must also breathe correctly. How hard is it to breathe in and out? It's automatic, right? Then why are so many feeling the effects of asthma, mental stress, high blood pressure, etc.? Breathing is so important to good health; research has shown that healthy people who practice shallow breathing can exhibit asthma symptoms; many overstressed people trigger their own panic attacks or make them worse by shallow, irregular breathing. Calmness can be induced by simply slowing down and taking deep, regular breaths.

The first pranayama taught in the Ashtanga system of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois is linking deep, regular breaths to the movements of the Sun Salutations. These breaths are in through the nose, out through the nose, with a sound like the ocean in the throat. This is called Ujjayi breath, or victorious breath. It has a calming effect on the mind, allowing the practitioner to focus more easily. If the breath becomes shallow or irregular, s/he is working too hard. If it becomes deeper and fuller, even the most difficult asanas become easier.

This breath can and should be practiced by itself; then link the inhales with upward movements and the exhales to downward movements. See previous posts for how to practice the Sun Salutations, and begin breathing with your movements; notice the difference in how you feel, both mentally and physically!

Asana

2006-07-30T22:42:00.000-04:00

As you may have noticed from the previous post, sometimes one must take a lighter view of practice in order to get through it. Asana, the physical practice of Yoga, can be a challenge if you want to make progress. Some of the challenges can involve pain, injury, frustration, starting over multiple times before finding the subtleties and nuances that allow for a fluid link between breath and movement as well as how to apply the Yamas and Niyamas to ones' own body and mind.

According to Sri K. Pattabhi Jois of Mysore India (the Guru of what is commonly referred to Ashtanga Yoga in the West), Yoga is "99% practice, only 1% theory", and "Do practice, all is coming". Traditionally, practice is done six days per week in the early morning with Saturdays and "moon days" off. Many Americans have a dim view of this, thinking that practice must be extremely intense every day; this only results in injuries and so many think that Ashtanga Yoga injures people or that its teachers injure people.

Remembering that the first Yama is Ahimsa, and that one must first learn to practice on ones' self, this system teaches the practitioner to take responsibility for his or her own practice and its progression. In the traditional system, students begin with the Sun Salutations (Surya Namaskar A & B) and do not go further until these are mastered. This ensures a base of strength and endurance is built up as well as the skill necessary to practice every day. The secret is to do a little bit at the beginning and gradually add to what is done. Giving the body time to rest and adjust keeps you from overtraining. As you rest, you can observe your body's reactions to the practice - where are your muscles sore? Do you feel overtired for the rest of the day? Are you eating enough to sustain your practice? (If not, you may develop migraines, be more susceptible to illness or injury, or suffer a "crash" midday).

Injuries can still be an opportunity for growth in your practice. Rodney Yee, the famous teacher from the Yoga Journal video/dvd series, says that pain is our teacher. We should not be so quick to move away from it as we can learn much about ourselves while we are learning to relax in each asana. Are we holding tension in the shoulders? Putting too much weight on the heel of the hand instead of distributing the pressure evenly through the fingers? Are we breathing properly?

Sometimes our Yoga practice is not the source of our pain but merely points the way to a greater awareness of the daily habits that cause our pain. Do you slouch at your desk all day, rarely getting up to stretch or walk around? Do you carry all of your bags on one shoulder all of the time? These daily habits set your body up for chronic pain or injury by allowing for muscular imbalances which can put pressure on spinal nerves.

Slowly, we build an awareness of our physical bodies and what is needed to bring the body into balance. As the body becomes balanced, the mind is less distracted by pain and suffering. As we become less distracted, we can then begin the process of learning to focus the mind.

Then, the real Yoga begins - the journey towards liberation that begins with Yama and continues through the eight limbs towards Samadhi, or Absorption in the Infinite Divine.

Yoga and Horses

2006-07-15T21:02:00.000-04:00

This has got to be the funniest paper I ever got from a student at the University of Maryland Baltimore County! A little explanation.... I teach a for-credit course in Ashtanga Yoga twice per year (Winter Session, 4 weeks, 3 hour classes twice per week per section; Summer I Session, 6 weeks, 2 hour classes twice per week per section). Students are only required to attend classes for their grade, they don't have to "perfect" their poses. I modify for individual circumstances. In the event that a student cannot make up a missed class, I ask that they write a paper on Yoga.

Mr. Warres is an employee of Medieval Times, a themed restaurant which stages battles on horseback in a central arena; diners are divided into sections which cheer for one knight (Blue Knight, Yellow Knight, Black Knight, etc.) in an elimination tournament. There is a dramatic story attached which makes things great fun! No, they don't offer vegetarian options (no vegetarians in Medieval Europe), but when you get to see the falcon perform (she flies right over your head! Just don't move or she might think you're dinner) and the "horse ballet" (choreography of horses; the horse and rider must act as one, and it is beautiful!) the food is not what you come for...

Enjoy this paper and feel free to tell your friends about it!
Namaste, hon!

Matthew Warres
Prof. Nicht
Yoga, Summer Session 1

Note: all Sanskrit in this paper is a product of the author’s delusions and poor memory. Any correlations of the terms to actual words are purely coincidental.

I perform modified sun salutations several times a day. This superior form of sun salutation involves the release of the equine bandhas lock, and the resultant need for expeditious application of the yogic mitzvah of non-dirtiness via composite rake apparatus. The breathing technique of crapizondegroun peegidup varies from standard (wussy) sun salutations in that the inhalation segment is performed before start position is approached summwahneeydasheet. I try to alleviate my misery by thinking of the poor saps at Vishnu Times, the Dinner Tournament in Jakarta which uses Elephants instead of horses. These sun salutations are the cornerstone of my new equestrian yogic practice™ is based.

Equestrian yogic practice involves mind, body and tight pants. Tight pants are key in “cooking the vegetables” so that the rider can be freed from all of the tension imposed by masculinity. The obtuse observer may pre-emptously surmise that the use of restrictive leg-wear means rider leg flexibility need not be unrestricted. Balderdashimitsihi! These tyrannical tights serve to glue the inner legs to the saddle and horse. Medieval Times proudly uses Wintec English saddles, which are essentially the “thong” of saddles--we might as well paint the damn things on. This absence of saddle means that the horse feels it when you pick your nose or think about Jessica Alba. My point is that the tiny pants and saddle serve to merge the rider into one large and really stupid conglomerate. In my first three years of riding I was constantly cursed with stiff and unresponsive horses. The horses would all sneak out of their stalls at night to watch desperate housewives and discuss how they would run really slow and clumsily when I was on them. I thought this was unfair, so one day I confronted our head horse trainer about the matter. He called dummasheetdaheet and explained that horses are herd animals like Asians at UMBC and thus must watch sentimental television and urinate in groups. He also said that the horses were stiff because I was stiff. He then distributed pink Motorola Razrs to all the geldings.

I was thoroughly disturbed by the horse master’s assertions. As all smart people know, it is awesomely convenient to blame everything in life on other people or animals. The fact that I had to change something about myself really sucked. I decided to exercise my American power of self-determination by signing up for T-mobile and getting a cool rebate on a pink Motorola razr. My riding did not improve. Later I signed up for Yoga and Ballet. My coworkers thought this was pretty gay. I switched my phone to the metallic razr.

Please let me clarify something right now: I took yoga at UMBC 2 years ago, and it did very little to help my riding or flexibility. Honestly it just felt like I was tearing myself apart. In the interim I stretched some on my own and realized I carry so much extra muscle mass that I need a much longer warm-up before I can attempt anything close to a stretch. This time around I did cardio and light lifting or calisthenics before class. The already warm muscles were then ready to stretch in class. I really would recommend some-sort of extra warm-up for meatheads who take yoga. The only downside of this is extreme sweating. (I had to hire a lifeguard! Just kidding.... teacher's note)

I used to think that flexibility could only be measured by how far my leg could swing to the front or side. Of course this is as downright idiotic as the people who go to the gym and only train chest. This summer session in yoga I learned all about hip flexibility and seat-bone positioning. The seat bones can be turned and rotated all sorts of ways to make it appear like you are flexible. This summer I realized that most of my previous practice in stretching had involved strategic cheating of the seat bones. I had a lot of trouble getting lined up on revolved triangle and the standing poses. The seated rotational poses in 1st series were also a unique challenge. I also discovered that my hips opened up more on one side, throwing my whole body out of whack.

The first positive effects on the hip stretching appeared during my elementary ballet class. A few weeks into yoga I found that I could let my knees travel out in the plies. This small alteration in their path immediately took a tremendous amount of stress off my knees. I also found I could balance better on my bad leg. For the first time in a year I was able to get the correct parts of the left foot in contact with the ground. It really is fascinating how the movement in the hip dictates all weight distribution.

Weight distribution has always been a problem in my riding. I tend to sit unevenly in the saddle, and thus can perform certain fancy shmancy lateral maneuvers only on one side. In mid June I discovered I could perform all the lateral maneuvers from both sides… coincidence, yoga or aliens… you decide. I figured it was yoga, and before the next riding practice I did a full yoga/ballet warm-up. I interposed all of the seated hip work with a lot of grand plies in 5th position. When I got on the horse it really was amazing—I felt something I never had before! (and no, it was not my vegetables)

A little preface here: horses not only have cell phones just like us, they also have shoulder blades/hip bones. These things shift around, and when the rider is using a wintec he can feel every shift under him. What was amazing about this time on the horse is that the horse’s hips did not shift under me—they shifted with me. My body now had the give to adjust my hips with every stride of the horse. Through this cadence I was able to sit deeper and give/receive immediate feedback with the horse.

Yoga has probably done other subtle things, such as improve my posture through opening the chest. I really can’t over-emphasize my appreciation for the hip opening though. I remember that the first time I took the class I had dismissed all the hip alignment instructions as superfluous and trivial. I realize now that they have an importance that applies directly to my livelihood. I think my next computer will be a laptop I can write in that kneeling position (one of the modifications I gave to students to open the hips in internal rotation...teacher's note). Maybe the riding master will let me borrow one of the I-books he bought the quarter horses.

Are you an Asana Bear?

2006-06-11T00:52:00.000-04:00

OPEN WINDOW YOGA: Asana Bear?

Are you a yoga waif or an asana bear? Check out this blog and find out!

Niyama: Rules of Conduct

2006-06-11T00:29:00.000-04:00

As the Yamas govern the things we should NOT do (harm ourselves or others, speak falsely, steal, be sexually profligate, or hoard or covet things we don't need), the Niyamas give us tools for positive change.

Shaucha is cleanliness of body, mind, and spirit. Santosha is contentment. Tapas is fire, or fervor. Svadhyaya is study or education of the higher Self. Ishvarapranidhana means surrender to the Divine.

By following the Yamas in turn, the Niyamas will follow automatically; by following Ahimsa (non-harming) as the highest calling everything else begins to fall into place naturally even if one is not perfect. This is why it's called "Yoga practice" and not Yoga perfect"!

Aparigraha - non covetousness

2006-04-19T16:06:00.000-04:00

Thou Shalt Not Covet Thy Neighbor's Things; or as the Yama (ethical teaching) states, don't hoard or collect things that aren't needed immediately. Keep things simple, be satisfied with what comes your way, God (or Nature) will provide for you. This is not to say that you should not work to improve yourself, or work for a living; only that it is not necessary to continually amass more and more things beyond the basics - a roof over your head, simple clothing to cover your nakedness, enough nourishing food to fill your belly and keep you healthy. Then in your spare time, you can create nice paintings, sing, dance, write poetry, whatever. The simpler your life is, the more time you will have for fun.

The important things in life are to be happy, to find joy in being with your loved ones and in meeting new people and learning new things, perhaps sharing what you have learned with others. Such a life is remarkable stress-free.

There is psychological research that suggests that happiness and income have little to do with each other once a certain threshold has been reached - about $10,000 per capita, or $30,000 per family (median) according to author Gregg Easterbrook ("The Progress Paradox: How Life Gets Better While People Feel Worse", cited in The Washington Post on Tuesday, April 18, 2006).

Money won't make you happy. Things won't make you happy. A life well-lived, a life of integrity, a life of discipline that leads to true freedom from the slavery of sense-cravings will help you find the happiness that is already within you naturally.

Brahmacharya

2006-03-06T21:35:00.000-05:00

Brahmacharya is literally continence, moderation, or restraint of sexual behavior but can also be applied to all areas of behavior. It is also a stage of life in traditional Hindu society when young men and women learn their roles in society, become educated, and become fully prepared to be not only productive members of the community but loving spouses and parents. This can only occur when they are not distracted by sexual lust. Traditional Hindus still practice arranged marriages for this reason, eliminating the need for dating, although marrying for love also happens.

A retired teacher recently wrote in to the Ask Amy newspaper column with an informal survey she took 10 years ago of her high school students: she asked her classes to indicate when in their lives they first went to a party as part of a recognized couple. Those girls who began dating the earliest (as early as the fifth grade) generally performed the worst in school - the earlier they started, the worse they did. The later they started, the better they did. One student asked, "I go to parties, but I've never gone as part of a couple. What do I indicate?" She was valedictorian.

The same correlation did not hold true for boys. The teacher theorized that the boys did not take dating and social status as seriously as the girls did. She also noticed that the parties for the younger girls were organized by the mothers of the girls, and that it seemed to be status driven.

Scientific research has shown consistently that education of girls and women is key to lifting families out of poverty. While this should not mean neglecting boys and men, we should not forget that distractions of any kind on the path to knowledge and understanding can lead to pain and suffering. The very young should form friendships under strict supervision; they need to be guided by example as they learn to form healthy relationships that will last, and avoid unmindful exploitational behavior.

The Buddhist Third Mindfulness Training (as taught by Thich Nhat Hanh) states:
"Aware of the suffering caused by unmindful sexual behavior, I am committed to cultivating sexual responsibility and respect in myself and in others.
I will learn ways to protect the physical and emotional integrity of individuals, couples, and society. If I choose to engage in sexual relations, I will do so only in a loving and committed relationship. To preserve the happiness of myself and others, I am determined to respect my emotional, physical, and legal commitments to my partner as well as commitments among other persons. I will do everything in my power to protect children, women, and men from sexual abuse and to prevent couples and families from being broken by unmindful sexual behavior. I will be mindful of loneliness and sexual suffering in myself and others and I will be compassionate and nonjudgemental concerning the sexual behavior of others.
This is the third of the Five Mindfulness Trainings. Have you made an effort to study and practice it during the past two weeks?"

Asteya, Non Stealing

2006-02-18T19:53:00.000-05:00

Thou Shalt Not Steal. This commandment is found in some form amoung all peoples; only those societies in which all property is communally shared find it unnecessary.

The desire to possess another's belongings can be powerful and destructive to both individuals and to society. It involves a tremendous breach of trust. The parent who entrusts the care of his or her child to another only to find that their son or daughter has been abused not only feels their own pain but the pain of their child as well. Workers who labored for years for their company under the assumption that they would have their retirement years paid for discover that their pension plan was raided by corrupt managers who bankrupted the company and left them not only without jobs but without their retirement plans. Artists who create paintings, music, or other art and find others plagiarizing their works or creating new works incorporating portions of their work without attribution or compensation.

Placing yourself in the other person's shoes for even a moment, think about you would feel if someone took everythink you owned, destroyed something you cared deeply about, harmed someone you loved for no reason other than they desired to possess something you owned. Perhaps you might have given it to them if they had but asked nicely. In building a world without violence, one based on love, we must begin by holding ourselves to a higher standard. These first three Yamas all mesh together - Ahimsa, non harming of ourselves as well as others; Satya, truth in thoughts, words, and actions; and now Asteya, not stealing, not breaching of trust, not misappropriating or misusing another's belongings. By respecting the property of others, you really are showing respect for yourself.

Satya, Truth

2006-01-14T23:43:00.000-05:00

"All the joy the world contains has come through wishing happiness for others.
All the misery the world contains has come through wanting pleasure for oneself"

Shantideva, The Way of the Bodhisattva
Shambala Publication, Inc.
ISBN 1-57062-253-1

Truth is the second Yama, and just as difficult to follow as Non-harming. Truth can seem to be a relative thing - when one clings to false views, ego, or is ignorant of certain facts a situation can seem to be one way when it is in fact completely different. How many times recently have we heard in the news that an innocent man has been freed from prison or even from death row by the new miracle of DNA evidence which has shown that he could not possibly have committed a terrible crime? We so easily jump to conclusions based on appearances, assumptions, preconceptions when keeping an open mind and making a careful evaluation of all arguments would be best.

In Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, it is ignorance (avidya) that is the root of all other afflictions, or kleshas. These five kleshas are the cause of future suffering:

avidya - ignorance/lack of knowlege - if you know nothing, you fear everything. How can you make a reasonable decision without knowlege of your subject? How can you deal with people if you don't try to know them? Conflicts occur because of fear; get to know others, fear disappears, conflicts disappear.

asmita - ego/I am-ness - if you always think only of yourself and never of others you may often find yourself making others angry with you. Learning to put yourself in someone else's shoes and understanding how they feel before you say or do something can help you prevent misunderstandings and promote better relations with your family, friends, and coworkers.

raga - attachment, passion, desire - clinging to much to things or people in a negative manner can drive them away. It is one thing to love someone so much that you will protect them from harm, but quite another to smother them so they cannot grow as human beings. That old saying "if you love something, set it free" is a truism on non-attachment. Besides, the result may delight you even more as those you love flower into new and more beautiful versions of themselves!

dvesha - aversion, dislike - there are always things you dislike, but to allow this to rule yourself and control how you behave causes you to suffer even if you do not recognize this. Hatred breeds fear and changes how others view you, particularly how the object of your dislike or hatred views you. It may even change how your friends view you if they think your view is unreasonable. Consider those who are controlled by phobias - they are controlled by aversions to heights, the outdoors, using elevators, etc. to the point of nausea and inability to function. Others are controlled by a fear or hatred of certain ethnic groups or skin colors or religions. These people tend to separate themselves from society as a whole and become quite dangerous to others.

abhinivesha - will to survive, fear of death - this may seem like a reasonable thing to maintain, everyone wants to live, but taken to extremes people again become simply fearful and cannot function joyfully. How can you live in the moment if you are constantly living in fear of death? Everyone and everything must die one day so why not fully live? Few things brought this home for me more acutely than the great duct tape run - everyone was encouraged to go out and buy plastic sheets and duct tape to make a little safe room in their homes to keep out anthrax and poison gas in case of a terrorist attack. So many Americans immediately ran out to their local hardware stores and bought every bit of plastic and duct tape they could. The people who make duct tape and plastic made alot of money, the hardware stores made alot of money, the shareholders made alot of money, alot of people were scared out of their wits. There was no terrorist attack, but even if there had been, would those preparations have done any good? Years ago, in Bhopal India, a terrible accident at a chemical plant in the middle of the night killed thousands of sleeping families. No one had any warning.

It makes no sense to fear death. Be present in your life now. The Truth will always be there whether it is spoken or not. The Truth cannot be hidden.

Ahimsa, non-harming

2006-01-06T23:38:00.000-05:00

Ahimsa, the principle of not harming others, is a difficult practice and one that many think to be impossible to follow. But some have practiced ahimsa successfully; The Buddha, The Christ, Mahatma Gandhi, numerous Saints from many religious traditions, and even secular ones have all managed to live peacefully and co-exist with others even in the face of death.

So how to begin this practice? A Buddhist practice of Vipassana Insight Meditation teaches that first one must begin with oneself. As applied to your Yoga practice, notice your breathing; does it remain slow, steady, and measured? Or does it become shallow and ragged? Uneven? How do your muscles feel in each posture? Do your joints feel strain? Is your weight distributed evenly? Use your powers of observation to adjust your posture, shift your weight, change your breathing accordingly and you will become more comfortable in your practice.

When you get tired, stop and rest! Following the traditional guidelines, do not force your body to do more than you are capable of in each practice session. You should be able to master the first Sun Salutation fully before attempting the second (and be able to perform five to ten in a row). Once you can do this six days in a row with one day off (resting on your back for at least five minutes before going about your day), add on to your practice).

Be sure to notice how you feel throughout your day as well as the next morning. If you feel thoroughly trashed, you know you did too much and should do less the next day. Don't be harmful to yourself by overworking your body, you will only end up making yourself sick or injured. It is better to do less and increase gradually than to do too much and set yourself back.

Once you have mastered the principle of being non-violent with yourself, you can begin to practice this with those you love - your family, your friends. Surely you remember times (holiday meals, stressful times....) when someone said something that escalated out of control and somehow people ended up not speaking to each other for a time. By looking deeply into your own heart first and then by being able to put yourself into another's heart before engaging the mouth one can practice slowing down and finding other ways of expressing concepts that are less harmful and disturbing. By looking at patterns which lead up to conflict and learning to defuse the patterns, one can avoid the conflict entirely! Moving on to those you are merely acquainted with, having neutral feelings for is the next step.

Having mastered this, one can then attempt the most difficult practice of all: focusing on those who hate or do violence. This is truly the path of divine love. Feeling love for those who hate you is not a practice for beginners. It may take many years of meditation at the level of the self before you can begin to move to the level of friends and family, but less time to move up to acquaintances. But loving those who have hate against you, especially if you ever lost a loved one to such a person requires a heroic effort.

This is why Ahimsa is the first Yama, or Limb, of Ashtanga Yoga. It is the most important leaf on the Limb of the Tree of Life; without it, the Tree withers and dies. With it, the Tree bears beautiful flowers and fruits which feeds the human family and sends a wonderful fragrance into the air while giving us shade and shelter.

Beginning Practice

2005-12-27T21:45:00.000-05:00

As we approach the new calendar year, many of us seek to shed our "old bodies" and get shape by making New Year's Resolutions to join health clubs and do cardio, lift weights, eat healthier, and lose weight. If we don't see dramatic results immediately we lose heart and go back to our old bad habits, often gaining more weight and getting in worse shape than we were in before.

The key to getting and staying in shape is consistency. One must first make baby steps, make them on a regular basis, and keep making them over and over again until they become a new good habit. Over time, you will see the results. They will not be so dramatic at first, but others will notice. Then you will notice that you feel better, and when you skip too many days you feel worse. This should give you added incentive to keep up a regular practice. Following is a guide for an ultra beginning Surya Namaskara A (sun salutation A) for those who have limited upper body strength. Practice this if you can for six days in a row until it flows easily with your breath and you can do at least 5 in a row without stopping. Then you can lie down and rest for 5 minutes. The entire routine should take about 10 minutes. Ideally, this should be practiced in the morning before you do anything else.

Inhaling, lift your arms up and touch your palms together, looking at your thumbs. Exhaling, fold forward at the hips until you touch the floor alongside your feet. Bend your knees as much as you need to so your back does not round excessively. Keeping your fingers on the floor if you can, inhale and straighten your arms and back (put your hands on your legs if you can't keep your hands on the floor. Be sure not to pinch the back of your neck). Exhaling, place the palms down and step your feet back and slightly apart to a pushup position, then lift your hips up in the air as high as you can. Keep the hands flat and reach your heels down even if they don't touch. This is "downward dog" pose. Relax your neck so you can see your feet, but look at the tip of your nose. Breath deeply in and out five times. If you can, on an inhale breath jump your feet up between your hands (walk up if you are less ambitious!) and straighten your arms and back (the fingertips should stay down, but you can place them on the legs if you are tight in the legs; watch your neck - don't tighten it!). Exhale and fold down. Inhaling, stand up slowly with a straight back lifting the arms up overhead. Exhaling, lower the arms down.

Follow the link for Ashtanga.com on the sidebar to find dvds on the Ashtanga method, or to go to Guruji's website where you can find an active demo of the Surya Namaskar (traditional method). Remember that it takes time to build strength and endurance, so don't do too much on the first day. If you've never done this before, maybe one is enough for a couple of days. If you are sore the next day, don't do any more until the soreness goes away (but don't stop, either). Add only one at a time until you can do five in a row without being sore the next day, and do that six days in a row. Build the good habit.

You will then be ready to add Surya Namaskara B, which adds lunges and two more downward dogs. Or you can add the upward dogs in (without the pushups yet), or start adding the "yoga pushups". If you have been to an Ashtanga class, you have seen those pushups, with the elbows in to the body rather than opening outward. If you are not sure how to perform these correctly, please do not attempt them on your own. Find a class with a qualified teacher who will work with you on proper alignment and technique so you can avoid injuring your shoulders and lower back. The modified version given here will suffice until then.

Namaste, hon!

Breathe In, Breathe Out

2005-12-09T18:53:00.000-05:00

Coming, going, the waterfowl
Leaves not a trace,
Nor does it need a guide.

Kigen Dogen
translated by Lucien Stryk and Takashi Ikemoto
Zen Poems
Everyman's Library Pocket Books
Alfred A Knopf publishers
ISBN # 0-375-40552-6

Being mindful in our daily lives, in every task can be challenging and difficult but allows us to bring our yoga practice off the mat and out of the studio and into the real world. Since the most important part of the asana practice is the breath, and the most important part of meditation practice is the breath, bring your mindfulness of your breath into every mundane task.

The Moment is Now

2005-12-03T19:45:00.000-05:00

There is only one moment in time when it is essential to awaken.
That moment is now.

The Buddha

The Bridge of Stars 365 Prayers, Blessings, and Meditations from Around the World
Duncan Baird Publishers
ISBN 1-903296-27-7

Being alive and awake in the present moment is a true challenge, isn't it? We regret things we've said or done but we can't take them back or undo them. We dream of things we want to do or wish for things we desire but can't have but get stuck in a cycle of gimme gimme wanna wanna and then are disappointed when these things don't make us as happy as we thought they would.

Sometimes the simplest joys are right there in front of us - the sun shining down on us, the birds singing, our children laughing and playing in the yard, a meal well prepared and shared with someone we care for. Nothing else matters in that moment but what is happening in that special moment.

In that moment, we are awake.

The Divine Country

2005-11-26T21:17:00.000-05:00

Regard Heaven as your father,
Earth as your mother,
all things as brothers and sisters,
and you will enjoy
the divine country that excels all others.

Traditional Shinto saying (6th Century), Japan

From the Bridge of Stars, 365 Prayers, Blessings, and Meditations From Around the World
Duncan Baird, Publishers, London
ISBN 1-903296-27-7

We are, after all, all human beings living on the same planet. We have the same hopes and dreams. We wish to raise our families in peace, with a roof over our heads, adequate food, a means of earning a living. We all wish for justice when someone wrongs us. It is wise to remember how we would feel in the other's shoes before we take an action. If there is a better way that would result in no harm done to either person, if indeed both people come out ahead, wouldn't that action be the better way? All that this requires is the taking of a deep breath and the thinking of a deep thought. A little time taken and the divine country is revealed.

Evolution

2005-11-21T20:26:00.000-05:00

Breathing in, I see myself as clear water.
Breathing out, I reflect all that is.

Reflecting on the apparent divide between religion and science in America it seems natural to simply stop and think awhile. It's been a long time since I've taken a science class, and science has taken a long journey of discovery since I've attended high school or college. There are many things in the fields of physics, chemistry, biology, and other sciences that I poorly understood 20 years ago. There is a truism in science fiction that anything that is poorly understood by a "primitive culture" is seen as magic or the work of the devil. That is certainly true here! I am amazed at plasma TVs and Tivos and I still don't really know how my computer works....

Historically, whenever scientists made new leaps of understanding, the powerful religious leaders of the day tried to suppress this knowlege because they were afraid of losing their grip on the masses. For example, Galileo was forced to recant his discovery that the earth was not the center of the universe. This did not change the truth, only delayed when the public learned it.

And so it will be the same forever. Scientists will continue to study the nature of the universe and relay what they discover. The ignorant and small minded will continue to say that they deny the existance of God. But where is God if not in every part of creation? Even the process of "evolution" cries out the presence of God in our lives every day - evolution is the voice of God saying "learn your lessons, change your ways, or you will die". God's voice is not a large booming voice from on high, it is that still, small voice that you ignore until it's too late.

Breathing in, I dwell in the present moment.
Breathing out, I know it is a wonderful moment.

Guided meditation exercises from The Blooming of a Lotus by Thich Nhat Hanh
ISBN 0-8070-1222-X
Beacon Press Boston

From the New York Times: Our Faith in Science

2005-11-13T20:04:00.000-05:00

Some things simply cannot be said any better...

November 12, 2005
Op-Ed Contributor
Our Faith in Science

By TENZIN GYATSO
Washington

SCIENCE has always fascinated me. As a child in Tibet, I was keenly curious about how things worked. When I got a toy I would play with it a bit, then take it apart to see how it was put together. As I became older, I applied the same scrutiny to a movie projector and an antique automobile.

At one point I became particularly intrigued by an old telescope, with which I would study the heavens. One night while looking at the moon I realized that there were shadows on its surface. I corralled my two main tutors to show them, because this was contrary to the ancient version of cosmology I had been taught, which held that the moon was a heavenly body that emitted its own light.

But through my telescope the moon was clearly just a barren rock, pocked with craters. If the author of that fourth-century treatise were writing today, I'm sure he would write the chapter on cosmology differently.

If science proves some belief of Buddhism wrong, then Buddhism will have to change. In my view, science and Buddhism share a search for the truth and for understanding reality. By learning from science about aspects of reality where its understanding may be more advanced, I believe that Buddhism enriches its own worldview.

For many years now, on my own and through the Mind and Life Institute, which I helped found, I have had the opportunity to meet with scientists to discuss their work. World-class scientists have generously coached me in subatomic physics, cosmology, psychology, biology.

It is our discussions of neuroscience, however, that have proved particularly important. From these exchanges a vigorous research initiative has emerged, a collaboration between monks and neuroscientists, to explore how meditation might alter brain function.

The goal here is not to prove Buddhism right or wrong - or even to bring people to Buddhism - but rather to take these methods out of the traditional context, study their potential benefits, and share the findings with anyone who might find them helpful.

After all, if practices from my own tradition can be brought together with scientific methods, then we may be able to take another small step toward alleviating human suffering.

Already this collaboration has borne fruit. Dr. Richard Davidson, a neuroscientist at the University of Wisconsin, has published results from brain imaging studies of lamas meditating. He found that during meditation the regions of the brain thought to be related to happiness increase in activity. He also found that the longer a person has been a meditator, the greater the activity increase will be.

Other studies are under way. At Princeton University, Dr. Jonathan Cohen, a neuroscientist, is studying the effects of meditation on attention. At the University of California Medical School at San Francisco, Dr. Margaret Kemeny has been studying how meditation helps develop empathy in school teachers.

Whatever the results of this work, I am encouraged that it is taking place. You see, many people still consider science and religion to be in opposition. While I agree that certain religious concepts conflict with scientific facts and principles, I also feel that people from both worlds can have an intelligent discussion, one that has the power ultimately to generate a deeper understanding of challenges we face together in our interconnected world.

One of my first teachers of science was the German physicist Carl von Weizsäcker, who had been an apprentice to the quantum theorist Werner Heisenberg. Dr. Weizsäcker was kind enough to give me some formal tutorials on scientific topics. (I confess that while listening to him I would feel I could grasp the intricacies of the full argument, but when the sessions were over there was often not a great deal of his explanation left behind.)

What impressed me most deeply was how Dr. Weizsäcker worried about both the philosophical implications of quantum physics and the ethical consequences of science generally. He felt that science could benefit from exploring issues usually left to the humanities.

I believe that we must find a way to bring ethical considerations to bear upon the direction of scientific development, especially in the life sciences. By invoking fundamental ethical principles, I am not advocating a fusion of religious ethics and scientific inquiry.

Rather, I am speaking of what I call "secular ethics," which embrace the principles we share as human beings: compassion, tolerance, consideration of others, the responsible use of knowledge and power. These principles transcend the barriers between religious believers and non-believers; they belong not to one faith, but to all faiths.

Today, our knowledge of the human brain and body at the cellular and genetic level has reached a new level of sophistication. Advances in genetic manipulation, for example, mean scientists can create new genetic entities - like hybrid animal and plant species - whose long-term consequences are unknown.

Sometimes when scientists concentrate on their own narrow fields, their keen focus obscures the larger effect their work might have. In my conversations with scientists I try to remind them of the larger goal behind what they do in their daily work.

This is more important than ever. It is all too evident that our moral thinking simply has not been able to keep pace with the speed of scientific advancement. Yet the ramifications of this progress are such that it is no longer adequate to say that the choice of what to do with this knowledge should be left in the hands of individuals.

This is a point I intend to make when I speak at the annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience today in Washington. I will suggest that how science relates to wider humanity is no longer of academic interest alone. This question must assume a sense of urgency for all those who are concerned about the fate of human existence.

A deeper dialogue between neuroscience and society - indeed between all scientific fields and society - could help deepen our understanding of what it means to be human and our responsibilities for the natural world we share with other sentient beings.

Just as the world of business has been paying renewed attention to ethics, the world of science would benefit from more deeply considering the implications of its own work. Scientists should be more than merely technically adept; they should be mindful of their own motivation and the larger goal of what they do: the betterment of humanity.

Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, is the author of "The Universe in a Single Atom: The Convergence of Science and Spirituality."

Copyright 2005 The New York Times Company

The Simple Life: an Example of Non Greed

2005-11-07T21:59:00.000-05:00

It may seem strange to use a Hollywood actor as an example of the Yogic concepts of Non Greed and Non Covetousness, but a recent article about Jason Scott Lee (one of my favorite actors, and a very talented one at that) shows that not everyone aspires to be rich and famous. He gave up the fast track life to restore a portion of the Hawaiian rainforest while living simply off the grid (no electricity or running water, washing his clothes by hand, etc.). He still accepts acting jobs that interest him and serve to finance his restoration project. He could be making a ton of money and live in a huge house and own several expensive cars and appear in all the tabloids and most likely be very unhappy. Instead, Jason Scott Lee has chosen to simplify his life to the bare essentials and be happy.

What more could anyone want from life?

Click on the link (an example of Non Greed) for an article on Jason and his work restoring the native plants on his land, farming taro using methods taught by Japanese pioneer Masanobu Fukuoka, and other things...

The second link (an example of Non Greed 2) is another interview with Jason on the occasion of the release of Lilo and Stitch 2; he used the opportunity to teach the reporters about his philosophy of harmonious living on the land.

Jason Scott Lee's movies have included: Map of the Human Heart, Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book, Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story, Soldier, Rapa Nui, Lilo and Stitch, and Time Cop 2: The Berlin Decision. Upcoming projects include: Only the Brave (about the Japanese American unit that fought in WW2) and The Nomad (shot in Kazakhstan).

Freedom in Bondage

2005-11-07T17:51:00.000-05:00

How can we be free if we are "in bondage"?
What the poet means, what the musician sees in rhythm, what the Ashtangi sees in the discipline of Sri Pattabhi Jois' teachings from his guru to us is that we become free from the tyranny of our chaotic thoughts and impulses.

It may take many years of daily practice to come to this realization, many starts and stops and restarts, a few rebellions before we finally submit to the ancient wisdom and symbolically bow down to the "lotus feet" of the Guru and see what it means to find freedom in discipline/bondage. But just as Mozart made the most exquisite symphonies from the linking of rhythm and harmony in a tremendous flowering of creativity (and the musicians who played those symphonies submitted completely to his leadership), those of us who learn from Sri Pattabhi Jois (or those who learn from Mr. Iyengar, or those who learn from any other Yoga teacher) must learn to submit fully to the teaching even if we don't always understand why right away. The why(s) will become apparent with time and continued study.

A link on the sidebar will take you to an interview with Sri Jois which appeared in Yoga International a few years ago. More on the Ashtanga system can be found on Ashtanga.com, the official website for Ashtanga practitioners.

Rabindranath Tagore

2005-11-06T20:02:00.000-05:00

Melody seeks to fetter herself in rhythm,
While the rhythm flows back to melody.
Idea seeks its body in form,
Form its freedom in the idea.
The infinite seeks the touch of the finite,
The finite its release in the infinite.
What drama is this between creation and destruction -
This ceaseless to and fro between idea and form?
Bondage is striving after freedom,
And freedom seeking rest in bondage?

Mindfulness Must be Engaged

2005-10-31T21:34:00.000-05:00

In Thich Nhat Hanh's book, Peace is Every Step, he wrote about his experiences in Vietnam during the war when the US bombed so many villages. As a monastic brother, he and his fellow brothers and sisters needed to decide whether to continue their traditional meditation practice in the monasteries or go out among the people and help those who were suffering from the effects of the bombing. After careful reflection, they decided to do both and called it engaged Buddhism -

"Mindfulness must be engaged. Once there is seeing, there must be acting. Otherwise, what is the use of seeing?

We must be aware of the real problems of the world. Then, with mindfulness, we will know what to do and what not to do to be of help. If we maintain awareness of our breathing and continue to practice smiling, even in difficult situations, many people animals, and plants will benefit from our way of doing things. Are you massaging our Mother Earth every time your foot touches her? Are you planting seeds of Joy and peace? I try to do exactly that with every step, and I know that our Mother Earth is most appreciative. Peace is every step. Shall we continue our journey?"

Also from the writings of Thich Nhat Hanh is this love meditation, adapted from the Vishuddhimagga:

"May I be peaceful, happy, and light in body and spirit.
May he/she be peaceful, happy, and light in body and spirit.
May they be peaceful, happy, and light in body and spirit.

May I be safe and free from injury.
May he/she be safe and free from injury.
May they be safe and free from injury.

May I be free from anger, afflictions, fear, and anxiety.
May he/she be free from anger, afflictions, fear, and anxiety.
May they be free from anger, afflictions, fear, and anxiety."

"We begin practicing this love meditation on ourselves. Until we are able to love and take care of ourselves, we cannot be of much help to others. After that we can practice on others - first on someone we like, then on someone neutral to us, then on someone the mere thought of whom makes us suffer."

This powerful meditation practice will do much to reduce tension within each individual, which will then reduce conflicts within families, which can then calm neighborhoods and even nations.

But the the journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step. Breathe in, be calm, breathe out, and smile.

Empty Yourself of Worries

2005-10-27T14:18:00.000-04:00

Adapted from "The Parent's Tao te Ching, A New Interpretation; Ancient Advice for Modern Parents" by William Martin
published by Marlowe & Company New York ISBN 1-56924-662-9

(because I was abruptly left by my beloved partner of 7 years with very little explanation).

"To survive....
you must empty yourself
of your constant thinking,
planning, and worrying.

You....
were born in the Tao,
live in the Tao,
and will return to that same Tao.
If you don't realize this,
you will mistake the sorrow you see in life
for the final word,
and you will become hardened with fear.

Brihadaranyaka Upanishad

2005-10-16T23:59:00.000-04:00

Om Asato Ma Sadgamaya
Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya
Mritor Ma Amrtam Gamaya
Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi

Lead me from untruth to the Truth
Lead me from darkness to the Light
Lead me from death to Immortality
Om peace peace peace.

Warriors of Love

2005-10-08T17:28:00.000-04:00

In Indonesia, a great battle is taking place for the hearts and minds of young Muslims between those who espouse a fundamentalist idealogy and those who wish to promote love, peace, and tolerance. At the forefront of the tolerance movement is an influential musician and Sufi Muslim named Ahmad Dhani, leader of a rock band called Dewa. He composed the album "Laskar Cinta" (Warriors of Love), which rose to the top of the charts in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, in response to the terrorist bombings in Bali and the atrocities committed by a group called "Laskar Jihad" (Warriors of Jihad, or Struggle).

The radicals have accused this devout Sufi of being an infidel or an apostate, and a Zionist agent; often this incites others to commit violent acts against the accused. Dhani is responding by creating another song - using a verse of the Koran to say "Truth dwells in the hearts of those who love and are free of hatred; the hearts of those who hate... are possessed by Satan."

It is a remarkable thing, to see such a battle take place between those who fight with suicide bombs and terror and those who fight back with music and words of love. The ordinary people have chosen to become Warriors of Love. It would be wise for their leaders to follow the people.

"There is only one moment in time when it is essential to awaken.
That moment is now."

The Buddha, (c. 563 - c. 483 BCE), India
from The Bridge of Stars, 365 Prayers, Blessings, and Meditations from Around the World
Duncan Baird Publishers
ISBN I-903296-27-7

2005-09-29T15:35:00.000-04:00

" I will be truthful.
I will suffer no injustice.
I will be free from fear.
I will not use force.
I will be of good will to all men."

Mahatma Gandhi (1869 - 1948) India

from the compilation The Bridge of Stars, 365 Prayers, Blessings, and Meditations from Around the World
published by Duncan Baird Publishers

Applying these ideals to everyday life is difficult, but ordinary men and women, poets, saints, politicians, religious leaders from all cultures have come back to them time and time again. Words such as these give us comfort in times of trouble, guidance when we need to find our way out of darkness, courage when we falter in the fires of tremendous evil. It can seem so easy to abandon the difficult path of what is right and just and fair, so simple to give up on the hard way of proper diet and exercise, keeping the mind and body pure when the payoff seems so far away.

The benefits of keeping to the right path are not just a long life, but a vital and active one - look to those who did not age well to see what is ahead for those who smoke or drink or eat to excess. As for social concerns, look to how people treat each other in different societies to see what works better - rudeness or caring? violence or compassion? The old saying that you reap what you sow holds more true than you may think.

Captain Ian Fishback, in his letter to Senator John McCain which was published in the Washington Post on September 28, 2005, said very eloquently, "If we abandon our ideals in the face of adversity and aggression, then those ideals were never really in our possession." It's common to make mistakes, but it's important to learn from them, move on and not make those same mistakes again.

From the same compilation, The Bridge of Stars, James Thurber (1894 - 1961) USA

"Let us not look back in anger or forward in fear, but around in awareness."

A Prayer for the End of Suffering

2005-09-01T12:04:00.000-04:00

For as long a space endures
and the world exists,
may my own existance bring about
the end of all suffering in the world.

Shantideva

Like the eight limbs of Yoga, Buddhism teaches how to achieve enlightenment through following a prescribed method. First, one must recognize that there is suffering in the world. There is an origin to that suffering. Most people cannot recognize that there is also an end to suffering - once this is realized, one can come to the recognition that there is a path to the end of suffering.

Even if one belongs to another religious faith, or no faith at all, the steps outlined in the Buddhist Sutras can be quite useful in finding that path to the end of suffering. The Dhammapada states in the very beginning that "hate is not conquered by hate: hate is conquered by love. This is law eternal."

An ancient Sanskrit prayer says, "May the evil man become good, may the good man have peace. May he who has peace become free, and may he who is free make others free."

Jesus of Nazareth said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." He also said to "love your enemies", a much more difficult task, but gave the example "That which you do to the least of these, my children, that you do also to Me." By trying to put yourself in someone else's shoes for a moment and feel what they feel, know what they suffer, perhaps you will understand that by reducing the suffering of others you are also reducing your own suffering as well.

On Seeing the First Bloom of the Lotus

2005-08-14T22:53:00.000-04:00

Here it is: this
must be that spring to come,
outside the vexing world:
lotus blossoms opening
through my door, in the dawn sky.

Jakuren
translated by Steven Carter
Zen Poems
Everyman's Library Pocket Poetry
ISBN 0-375-40552-6

A Zen Poem

2005-08-14T21:56:00.000-04:00

Deluded, a Buddha is a sentient being.
Awakened, a sentient being is a Buddha.
Ignorent, a Buddha is a sentient being.
With wisdom, a sentient being is a Buddha.
If the mind is warped, a Buddha is a sentient being.
If the mind is impartial, a sentient being is a Buddha.
When once a warped mind is produced, Buddha is concealed within the sentient being.
If for one instant of thought we become impartial,
Then sentient beings are themselves Buddha.
In our mind itself a Buddha exists, our own Buddha is the true Buddha.
If we do not have in ourselves the Buddha mind,
Then where are we to seek Buddha?

Huineng translated by Philip Yampolsky
from the book Zen Poems
Everyman's Library Pocket Poets
published by Alfred A. Knopf
ISBN 0-375-40552-6

The beauty of Zen/Chan Buddhist practice is that one can contemplate the nuances of the nature of the universe without being impeded by others. One can choose to be subtly guided, or can sit in solitude. The practitioner reaches insight with personal practice, not by being force-fed the answers. The Buddhist knows the Sutras, of course, the core teachings/insights of the Buddha, but there have been more than one enlightened master; Once one begins with the Four Noble Truths -

There is Suffering.

There is an origin of Suffering.

The end of Suffering is possible.

There is a path to the end of Suffering.

- one may continue to embroider the tapestry with the beautiful threads that make life worthwhile.

Buddhism evolved out of Hindu/Vedic practice partially as a reaction to corrupt priests and a caste system gone haywire. The first Buddha was born a prince, and he walked away from wealth and privilege. His teachings drew followers from far and wide and transformed the Far East. From another Zen poem from the same book:

One flower opens five petals,
and the fruit ripens of itself.

Bodhidharma, according to Huineng

mindfulness

2005-08-02T00:15:00.000-04:00

Mindfulness is the way of immortality -
Heedlessness is the way of death.
The mindful will not die -
The heedless are perpetually dead.
Nagarjuna

from Yoga Gems, A Treasury of Practical and Spiritual Wisdom from Ancient and Modern Masters
Edited by Georg Feurestein

Yoga is a path of mindfulness, not simply a physical exercise system which is practiced like aerobics, running, or weightlifting one or a few times per week. Yoga is also not a religion, but it is a spiritual discipline grounded in the traditions of India and so it is often confused with the rituals of Hinduism but Buddhists and Muslims as well as Christians and secular masters have practiced the path of Yoga.

Yoga is the process of becoming mindful, and thus can be applied to any task, however mundane. The Chinese masters would say, "chop wood, carry water". Those who would study at the Shaolin Temples to become monks were first assigned the everyday tasks of service - sweeping the paths, carrying water, doing anything assigned to them before learning the martial arts methods the Shaolin were famous for. This taught patience and surrender. Those who could not cultivate contentment with the simple life of service were asked to leave.

Ashram life is the same, but without the martial arts; in Vedic India, the culture was such that wars were fought only between warriors and civilians were left untouched (not so in China, hence the monks needed to learn self-defense techniques but were never to use them offensively). It was considered a great gift to the giver to provide for others' needs. Even today, Sadhus (holy ascetics) wander the country with nothing but the clothing they have on (and sometimes not even that!) and their begging bowl. God provides all that they need when they need it. If S/He does not, perhaps a lesson is being taught that day.

We can all learn from these wise ones who crave nothing but communion with the Divine; too many of us crave temporary things like bigger houses, bigger cars, too much food, the wrong kinds of food without regard to the consequences for the rest of the planet or to humanity or to other species much less to ourselves. We then wonder, too late, why we are so fat, so sick, so unpopular, why our air and water is so dirty, why our roads are so crowded, why so many rare and beautiful animals are dying out in the wild. By slowing down and contemplating our past actions and their effects, we can then resolve to be more mindful of our future actions.

For as long as space endures
and the world exists,
may my own existence bring about
the end of all suffering in the world.
Shantideva
ibid

Samadhi

2005-06-09T01:05:00.000-04:00

The end or goal of the quest is absorption in the infinite - the body is at rest but the mind is alert. One is fully conscious yet is merged in the object of contemplation; there is no duality between the knower and the known. Bliss! Different schools recognize different stages or levels of samadhi, but ultimately, one merges completely with the Divine and there are no more "seeds" of thought arising to interfere with the identification with the Trancendental Self.

Aham Prema, I am Divine Love.

Dhyana

2005-06-04T02:18:00.000-04:00

Tatra Pratyayaikatanata Dhyanam

Meditation links the mind with a chosen object; Iyengar states that as water takes the shape of its container, the mind is transformed into the shape of the object it contemplates. One can observe the flow of uninterrupted concentration, as one can watch oil pour from one container to another. The state of that uninterrupted flow of concentration is dhyana.

Desha Bandhashchittasya Dharana

2005-05-02T15:10:00.000-04:00

When the body has been strengthened by asana (physical practice), the mind strengthened by pranayama (breathing practice), and the senses strengthened by pratyahara (withdrawal from wrong impressions, opened to right impressions), one can then become fully able to direct the mind toward a chosen object or subject despite the distractions of other alternatives. One cannot concentrate if we are affected by distractions, misapprehensions, fears, etc.

When attempting to establish a home yoga practice, learning to concentrate during practice may be difficult - ringing phones, crying children, a noisy neighborhood all contribute to the challenges which interrupt the flow of asana and breath. Strategies for overcoming these obstacles can include: turning the phone ringer off, creating a separate room for your practice with a door you can close and establishing a specific time for practice which is off-limits for family to interrupt you unless it is an absolute emergency (the house better be on fire!). You could play a calming CD of Tibetan bells and chimes to create an atmosphere within the room conducive to practice. Even if you only begin with 10 or 15 minutes per day, this time will become a precious haven which will spill over into your daily life. You will look forward to your quiet time as a mini vacation, and it will become longer and more restorative.

One day, your practice will bear the fruit of concentration and you will be fully engrossed in your task. You will begin to apply these principles to everything that you do, on and off the mat. Yoga means union, after all.

Daaina, and so it is.

Pratyahara

2005-03-27T20:20:00.000-05:00

Restraint of the senses - or, withdrawing our attention away from harmful influences and opening up to beneficial influences. Prati means food in Sanskrit, ahara means restraint or control. As we learn to control our bodies with asana practice and our breath with pranayama practice, we than can bring our minds under conscious control and stop running around after external objects of desire - the lastest bling.

Mastery of the self makes you more powerful; you can do what you really want in life without distraction, focus on what's important without being turned away from your goal. This is the first step on your inward journey; there is bondage when you are craving after things, full of fear, or unhappy. The mind is pure when desire and fear is annihilated.

pranayama

2005-03-24T01:32:00.000-05:00

Pranayama is the conscious control of the breath. Prana means breath, vitality, life, energy, or strength. Ayama means length, expansion, or restraint. Pranayama means control over all of the functions of the breath, from inhalation to exhalation to holding of the breath in or out.

According to BKS Iyengar, a yogi's life is measured by the number of breaths taken so following proper regular rhythmic breathing strengthens the respiratory system, soothes the nervous system, and reduces cravings. The mind is thus set free and becomes fit for concentration.

It takes a long time to learn slow, deep, steady inhalations and exhalations. In the Ashtanga system of Pattabhi Jois, Ujjayi breath is practiced with the asana vinyasa movements of the First and Second Series before students are allowed to begin formal practice in sitting pranayama instruction. Improper practice of pranayama can lead to serious disorders, while correct methods lead to improved health; it must be learned from a teacher. There are different systems of pranayama according to teaching lineage; once one has decided upon a system of yoga asana to study, that is the pranayama system one should study when adept in asana.

Just remember to be patient; first master slow, deep, steady inhalation and exhalation in all yoga asanas - if your breathing becomes shallow or rapid while practicing, you are working too hard or are losing your focus.

Sthira Sukham Asanam

2005-03-17T16:15:00.000-05:00

Asana must have the qualities of alertness and relaxation; just enough effort as you work, but a quality of relaxation. At the same time, you must be relaxed while striving to achieve effort. Asana literally means "easy seat".

Those who do not practice yoga but run, swim, or practice other aerobic sports may have experienced the "zone", a feeling where effort feels effortless and one can do more than usual and feel great doing it and even better afterwards. Physical activity is important for the human body, not just to keep the joints and muscles in top condition but to condition the mind - mood is elevated, blood pressure is lowered, cholesterol is moderated; so many benefits come from exercise and yet we find so many excuses not to move. This lack of movement can and will literally kill us over time, as new research is now showing - studies into the effects of obesity are indicating that improvements in the lifespans of Americans will be undone if the ever expanding waistlines continue. Obesity will overtake all other threats to human life, including smoking, cancers, accidents, etc. once the effects on children are taken into account; they are becoming obese at younger and younger ages as they become sedentary at younger and younger ages.

In ancient times, movement was built into the daily lives of all cultures. Celebratory dances, walking everywhere, farming or other labor intensive work ensured that many calories were burned and muscles worked and stretched. Only the elite lounged around and were waited on hand and foot. Today, we must make an extra effort to park the car a little farther away and walk a few extra steps, take the stairs instead of the elevator, join a health club (and be sure to go there before we go home) and work out at least 30 minutes daily; we could also walk around the block with our kids or the family dog, garden for an hour, learn to ride a bike, anything enjoyable that we will keep up on a regular basis. Your practice need not be gumby like to be like "Yoga" to be beneficial on a physical level - if you don't have access to a good Yoga teacher, there are now excellent videos and DVDs out there (the Yoga Journal line with Rodney Yee are good for beginners) in a multitude of styles. If one doesn't suit you, try another! The important thing is to get moving and keep moving!

Niyama: Rules of Conduct

2005-03-13T17:16:00.000-05:00

Shaucha Santosha Tapaha Svadhyayeshvara Pranidhanani Niyamaha

Niyama comprises

Shaucha, cleaniness of body, mind, and spirit as well as our surroundings. According to BKS Iyengar, good habits like bathing purify the body externally while asana and pranayama purify the body internally. Meanwhile, purging the mind of disturbing emotions like hatred, anger, lust, greed, and delusion are even more important.

Pure food is also needed, not only in the way it's prepared but how it is obtained. Factory farming methods often swamp the ground with pesticides and high levels of phosphates, which may find their way into the skins of the fruits and vegetables you eat. Factory farmed animals are often raised and slaughtered in inhumane conditions, which leads not only to disease among the animals, but to a lower quality of protein. Improperly run slaughterhouses have been known to transmit disease to humans, and often cause repetitive stress injuries to the workers who are also working long hours in stressful conditions. Many yogis become vegetarians or vegans (no dairy or eggs); those who do not, endeavor to find animal products from sources labeled "free range" or "humanely raised".

Food should be simple and nourishing, according to Iyengar; avoid eating too much or too little (one teacher told me that a meal should fit into your own two hands!).

Santosha, contentment, is the ability to be comfortable with what we have and what we don't have, according to TKV Desikachar. It must be cultivated, a difficult thing to do in a consumer society where the constant message of television is buy the newest, shiniest, biggest bling...

Tapas, translates from the root word for "fire". It can translate as fervor, drive, austerity, self-discipline, character building; it removes impurities in the body and mind through all of these things as well as other good habits as sleep, nutrition, and relaxation according to Desikachar.

Svadhyaya, or study of the Self, allows you to review your progress along your path while you work on drawing out the best that is within.

Ishvarapranidhana is surrender, or dedication to God(dess), a higher power, a higher intellegence, or the higher nature of humanity. We surrender the fruits of our efforts to something greater than ourselves, for the greater good of all humanity and All Our Relations. When the sense of "mine" disappears, the individual soul can reach full growth.

Daaina, and so it is!

Ashtanga Yoga - the Eight Limbs of Practice

2005-03-03T16:17:00.000-05:00

Yama Niyama Asana Pranayama Pratyahara Dharana Dhyana Samadhayo 'stavangani

There are eight components of classical Yoga practice:

Yama: very much like the Judeo-Christian Ten Commandments, comprising moral and ethical standards.

1. Ahimsa: non-violence, or non-harming. This was the foundation of Mahatma Gandhi's movement that freed India from the British virtually without a shot. Later, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. modeled the civil rights movement after Gandhi's success, as did Ang San Su Chi (I know I am spelling her name wrong...) in Burma and the entire nation of the Phillipines in ousting the Marcos regime. The Christian faith is based upon non-violence, although few "Christians" actually follow it (the Quakers are one sect that take it seriously); Jesus Christ said, "Blessed are the peacemakers..." and "If a man strikes you on the cheek, turn and let him strike you on the other...." and even "Love your enemies!". Sri Pattabhi Jois, guru of the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga lineage says of ahimsa that it is "impossible!" to practice. However, dedicated practice in lovingkindness as shown by such persons as the Dalai Lama of Tibet and Thich Nhat Hanh of Viet Nam (who have known so much violence and war in their homelands) prove that perfect ahimsa is possible in humans. One must cultivate an attitude of compassion towards others, even one's enemies, as they must have experienced tremendous sorrow themselves to feel such rage and anger for us. To deny that our enemies feel what we feel is to deny our own humanity.

2. Satya: truth, or right speech/communication. Controlling your speech, thoughts, actions, etc. allows others to respect you and leads to the elimination of malice. One should avoid abusing others with their words, tell the truth unless that truth causes harm or violence to others, and should avoid ridiculing what others hold sacred.

3. Asteya: Not-stealing. Pretty straightforward, includes using something for a different purpose than that intended; misappropriation, breach or trust, mismanagement, misuse....Enron, Tyco, WorldCom, the Business Pages are full of violations of this Yama!

4>Brahmacharya: continence, or moderation. There are different takes on this depending on who you reference. If you are a very traditional yogi(ni) living in an ashram, you are completely celebate. If you are not, according to Pattabhi Jois you may follow the traditional text of Hatha Yoga Pradipika, which lays out the stages of life, where you may be faithful to your spouse during the Householder phase of life and are celibate before and after. The real key here to be moderate. Don't go overboard and you should be okay.

5. Aparigraha: non-greed. Keep things simple, try not to hoard what you don't need - three houses, ten cars, a million pairs of shoes....There are so many families without health insurance, a roof over their heads, food on their plates. Children are going hungry. Some people are one paycheck away from losing everything they have. Others have way more than they could possibly use in their lifetimes. Interesting thing is, money really doesn't make you happy; beyond the basics, once you are secure more will not make you happier. There were two recent lottery stories in the news that illustrated this perfectly: one man in WV won a huge jackpot, didn't know how to handle it and became very unhappy. A woman in CA won a huge jackpot and used the money to help find homes for abandoned babies, or to bury those which died before being rescued - she keeps very little for herself. She is very happy.

Part of the difference may be that she knew who she was before she won the money, therefore it made no difference in her life having more.

Daaiina. And so it is.

lotus

2005-03-03T09:26:00.000-05:00

Posted by: namastehon

lotus

Atha Yoganushasanam

2005-02-28T16:02:00.000-05:00

Now begins the discourse on Yoga...and other things...The classical eight limbs of Yoga begin with Ahimsa, or non harming, non violence. Peace, dawgs. Peace is more than the absence of war. Violence is a state of mind, it can begin with a look, a thought, an intention to cause harm. According to BKS Iyengar, violence arises from fear, ignorance, greed.

When we truly are in control of ourselves, when we truly understand ourselves, when we approach the world and its wonders with an open heart and mind and can see that a child in one country is exactly the same as a child in any other country, how can we possibly wish it any harm?

Once we know that the child is the same, we must then know that its mother must also be the same in any country, for what must any mother wish for her child but for it to grow up healthy, happy, and secure? Now that we know that all mothers are the same everywhere, we must then know that all fathers are the same everywhere - every father wishes the same for his children, doesn't he - to see them strong, to see them grow up and make lives for themselves, marry and have children of their own? Knowing that fathers are the same everywhere, then brothers and sisters must also be the same all over the world.

We are all human after all, one race, one people. We may speak different languages, follow different creeds and religions, have different customs, but we all bleed red blood, breathe the same air, drink the same water. When we die we all go back into the same earth, and while we may use different names for the concept of God, there really can be only one Giver of Life...

Daaiina...And so it is...