Category: Surprise Me

Nourish Your Soul with Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup: A Recipe for Wellness

9/21/2023

Hands cupping a steaming bowl of Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup, garnished with aromatic spices, while remnants of fresh pumpkin adorn the edges of the bowl.

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." - Hippocrates

As the leaves fall and the days grow cooler, our bodies naturally crave warmth and nourishment. What better way to embrace the changing seasons than by preparing a wholesome and balanced meal that not only delights the taste buds but also nurtures the body and soul?

In this blog post, we'll explore the Ayurvedic wisdom behind a comforting dish – Pumpkin Soup. We'll delve into the ingredients' healing properties, the doshas it pacifies, and how it aligns with yoga principles of wellness. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a journey of culinary and holistic delight! And, if you're eager to dive right into this nourishing experience, don't forget to check out the Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup recipe card below which you can download for ease of use later!

Understanding Ayurvedic Doshas

In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, our constitution is defined by three primary energies, or doshas: Pitta, Vata, and Kapha. Each dosha represents a unique combination of the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) and plays a significant role in our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Pitta: Dominated by the elements of fire and water, Pitta represents the energy of transformation. It governs digestion, metabolism, and the body's ability to assimilate information. Pitta types tend to have fiery personalities, sharp intellects, and can be prone to overheating physically and emotionally.
Vata: Governed by the elements of air and ether, Vata is the force of movement. It controls bodily functions like circulation, breathing, and the nervous system. Vata types are often creative, adaptable, and energetic but may experience imbalances related to anxiety and restlessness.
Kapha: Rooted in earth and water elements, Kapha provides stability and structure. It governs growth, immunity, and emotional well-being. Kapha individuals are typically calm, nurturing, and steady but may struggle with issues like lethargy and excess weight.

Understanding your dominant dosha can offer valuable insights into your physical and emotional tendencies. Ayurveda aims to balance these doshas to promote health and harmony. To learn more, consider reading the following blogs from The Kriya Yoga Blog Archives:

For personalized dosha assessments and guidance tailored to your unique constitution, please feel free to reach out to me, I would be happy to guide you.

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The Essence of Ayurveda

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, views food as a powerful tool for promoting balance and well-being. It emphasizes the importance of choosing ingredients and cooking methods that align with our unique constitution or dosha. Pumpkin, a staple of autumn, offers numerous health benefits that resonate with Ayurvedic principles.

Pumpkin: The Star of the Season: Pumpkin is a revered ingredient in Ayurveda, known for its ability to soothe both Vata and Pitta doshas. Its sweet and slightly astringent taste helps pacify Vata's cold and dry qualities, making it an ideal choice for the autumn season. Additionally, pumpkin's cooling nature balances the heat of Pitta, making it a versatile ingredient for various body types.

Spices: The Key to Balance: Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup wouldn't be complete without a harmonious blend of spices. Ingredients like ginger, cumin, and coriander not only enhance flavor but also offer therapeutic benefits. Ginger aids digestion and kindles Agni (digestive fire), while cumin and coriander help balance the doshas.

Cooking Method Matters: In Ayurveda, how you prepare your food matters as much as the ingredients themselves. Cooking the soup slowly and mindfully infuses it with the qualities of warmth and comfort. This aligns with the yogic principle of mindfulness, encouraging us to be present and intentional in our actions, even in the kitchen.

Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup Recipe

A visually appealing arrangement of fresh ingredients for Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup, featuring ginger, pumpkin, aromatic herbs, and a medley of spices, ready to transform into a nourishing meal.

"Cooking is at once child's play and adult joy. And cooking done with care is an act of love." - Craig Claiborne

🍂🧡 Embrace the flavors of fall with our nourishing Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup recipe. It's not just delicious; it's a celebration of balance and well-being. 🥣✨

Ingredients:

2 cups of diced pumpkin
1/2 cup of red lentils (masoor dal)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
1 tsp of ground cumin
1/2 tsp of ground coriander
1/2 tsp of ground turmeric
A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp of ghee (clarified butter) or coconut oil
4 cups of water or vegetable broth
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat the ghee or coconut oil over medium heat. Add the asafoetida, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
Add the diced pumpkin and red lentils. Stir to coat them with the spices.
Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and season with salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin and lentils are soft and cooked through.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it to a blender, but be careful when blending hot liquids.
Return the soup to the pot and warm it through. If it's too thick, add more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with cilantro leaves.

DOWNLOAD RECIPE CARD

White & Brown Modern Recipe Card by Ashley Cruz

Wishing You a Serene Autumn Season

As you savor each spoonful of Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup, savor the wisdom of Ayurveda and yoga that underscores its creation. This delicious bowl of comfort not only nourishes your body but also aligns with the changing seasons, promoting balance and wellness. Embrace this ancient wisdom, and let your culinary journey become a holistic one, nurturing not just your body but your soul as well. So, bring warmth and wellness to your table this fall with Ayurvedic Pumpkin Soup, and savor the joys of mindful eating.

If you're interested in exploring Ayurvedic cooking and its harmony with yoga further, stay tuned for updates on our upcoming courses and workshops. In the meantime, enjoy the flavors of the season and let your journey to wellness begin in your kitchen.

Your Support Matters

Dear readers, if you've found value in this article, I invite you to join the conversation. Share your thoughts, experiences, or questions in the comments below; your insights could make a difference in someone else's journey.

Additionally, if you appreciate my efforts to provide an ad-free reading experience, please consider making a donation. Your generosity enables me to continue creating quality content that enriches lives.

Your support doesn't just help me; it fosters a community committed to growth, forgiveness, and loving-kindness. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.

With Gratitude,
~ Ashley

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Journey Into Self: Unveiling the Layers of Awareness and Body Consciousness in Kriya Yoga (MEDITATION)

8/26/2023

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Frederic Edwin Church's painting 'The Andes of Ecuador 1855' depicts a stunning landscape with majestic mountains and serene water bodies, inviting contemplation and connection with nature.

Frederic Edwin Church - The Andes of Ecuador 1855

"Consciousness, perception and awareness of every object or idea create vibrations in the mind. These vibrations are the mind waves, and this mind wave itself is consciousness."
~ Swami Satyananda Saraswati

Greetings, dear reader, and welcome back to The Kriya Yoga Blog. Today, we are delving deep into two fascinating topics from the seminal text "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya" by Swami Satyananda Saraswati. As we turn the pages to Lessons 3: Topics 5 and 6, we unravel the intricate realms of awareness and body-centered meditation, weaving together ancient insights and contemporary applications. Join me as we explore the rich tapestry of Awareness and Body Consciousness, crucial building blocks for your Kriya Yoga practice.

In this edition of our Yoga Odyssey into the teachings of Swami Satyananda Saraswati, I'll share with you:

Guided Audio Meditation - Exploring Body Awareness: Immerse yourself in a transformative experience as you follow a guided meditation that leads you through the enchanting realm of body awareness. Discover the profound connection between your physical vessel and the art of meditation. Tune in to the voice recording that gently directs your awareness, helping you cultivate mindfulness and presence in every fiber of your being.

Topic 5: Awareness - An Introduction: Journey with us through the pages of Lesson 3, Book 1, Topic 5, where Swami Satyananda Saraswati introduces us to the multidimensional nature of awareness. Delve into the practice of cultivating witness consciousness, where the mind becomes a silent observer. Explore how awareness transcends the boundaries of thought, emotion, and sensation, opening doors to clarity and equanimity. This section is divided into four parts: (1) Unveiling the Inner Essence: Exploring Awareness in Depth, (2) Cultivating Witness Consciousness: The Art of Becoming the Silent Observer, (3) Practical Invitation: Embarking on Your Journey of Witness Consciousness, and (4) Invitation to the Journey.

Enhancing Insight with Visuals: The Human Skeletal System: Visualize the very structure that supports your physical form - the human skeletal system. An image of this intricate framework accompanies the blog, enriching your understanding of body awareness. Witness how awareness intersects with your anatomy, offering insights into both your physical and spiritual dimensions.

Recommended Daily Practice Program: As a practitioner, you're encouraged to take these teachings into your daily life. Dive into the recommended Daily Practice Program, which presents three distinct routines of varying lengths. This flexibility allows you to choose or customize the practice that aligns with your schedule, ensuring you reap the maximum benefits of awareness and meditation.

A Special Offer for Blog Subscribers: Elevate your practice with 30% off private yoga classes, both online and in person. Discover personalized guidance, tailored sessions, and a transformative journey towards holistic well-being. Book Your Yoga Session Today!

As you immerse yourself in this blog post, allow these elements to guide your exploration of awareness and body-centered meditation. Each component invites you to embark on a transformative journey, unveiling layers of self-discovery and union. Share your reflections and experiences in the comments section, enriching our collective journey of growth and realization.

If you resonate with the teachings presented here, consider sharing this blog post with fellow seekers who might also find value in these transformative practices. Your engagement is a vital part of the vibrant community that The Kriya Yoga Blog fosters.

Furthermore, your support helps keep the flame of wisdom burning. If you feel inclined to contribute, your DONATION directly fuels the continuation of these (ad-free) enriching discussions.

Let's embark on this journey of awareness and body-centered meditation together, embracing the inner landscapes that await our exploration and discovering the depths of our being that have long yearned for our attention.

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Unveiling the Inner Essence:
Exploring Awareness in Depth

Sir Frederic Leighton's "Flaming June" (1895).

"Within the depths of awareness, we discover the vast tapestry of our existence, woven from the threads of physical sensations, mental musings, emotional currents, and the silent whispers of the spirit. The practice of witness consciousness unveils this multidimensional realm, where we become observers of our own symphony, detached yet engaged. As we traverse the landscape of our being, we bridge the gap between conditioned reactions and authentic responses, empowering ourselves to navigate life's dance with unwavering clarity and profound equanimity." ~ Ashley Cruz

In this chapter, the canvas of our exploration widens as we delve into the depths of awareness. Saraswati beckons us to journey beyond the veils of the external world and to turn our gaze inwards. It is in this realm of inner observation that the true essence of awareness is discovered.

Understanding Awareness as a Multidimensional State
Embarking on the journey of Kriya Yoga leads us to unravel the depths of awareness, a concept that Swami Satyananda Saraswati masterfully guides us through in "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya." Awareness, within the framework of Kriya Yoga, isn't confined to the surface-level understanding we commonly hold. Instead, Saraswati introduces us to the expansiveness of awareness as a multidimensional state that encompasses the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual realms of our being.

Imagine awareness as a vast canvas, stretching far beyond the boundaries of our mundane perceptions. Saraswati likens our consciousness to radio signals that are continuously being broadcasted. Just as we tune in to specific frequencies to hear particular stations, our awareness can be directed to various dimensions of existence. Through profound practices, we're invited to disentangle from the incessant chatter of the mind, much like switching between radio stations, and immerse ourselves in the pure, serene essence of awareness.

Cultivating Witness Consciousness: The Art of Becoming the Silent Observer

Caspar David Friedrich's artwork 'Monk by the Sea' (1808-10) captures a solitary monk standing on a rocky shore, gazing out at the vast sea and sky, representing contemplation and the connection between the individual and the infinite universe.

Caspar David Friedrich, Monk by the Sea (1808-10)

"Amidst the ebb and flow of thoughts, emotions, and sensations, the silent observer within us remains unchanged. It is in this space of pure awareness that we find refuge, clarity, and the unending wellspring of our true nature." ~ Ashley Cruz

At the heart of this exploration lies the practice of cultivating "witness consciousness." In our everyday lives, our thoughts, emotions, and sensations play out like a movie on the screen of our mind. Often, we're entangled in this movie, reacting to its twists and turns without a sense of detachment. Yet, within the realm of awareness, we're called to become the silent observer, akin to the audience watching a film.

Saraswati's analogies guide us further. He likens this process to a scientist observing different facets of an object, an artist capturing the play of light on a canvas, or even a referee overseeing a match. In each analogy, the common thread is the element of detached observation. As we traverse the landscape of our thoughts and emotions, we begin to discern the inherent wisdom in witnessing without attachment. It's this practice that bridges the gap between our conditioned reactions and our authentic responses, allowing us to navigate life's ebb and flow with a newfound clarity and equanimity.

In the realm of awareness, we awaken to the subtle nuances that underlie our experiences. This multidimensional awareness transcends the surface, revealing the interconnectedness of our physical sensations, mental fluctuations, emotional tides, and the silent realm of the spirit. The practice of witness consciousness empowers us to choose our responses consciously, unswayed by the fluctuations of the mind, and in doing so, connect with our true selves.

Practical Invitation: Embarking on Your Journey of Witness Consciousness

Vincent van Gogh's painting 'Wheatfield Under Thunderclouds' (1890) portrays a swirling sky over a golden wheat field, showcasing the dynamic interplay of nature's elements and evoking a sense of movement and energy.

Vincent van Gogh's "Wheatfield Under Thunderclouds" (1890)

On the Synergy of Awareness and Meditation: "As we weave together the tapestry of awareness and body-centered meditation, we unearth treasures of insight and liberation. Awareness becomes the lantern that illuminates the path of meditation, while meditation serves as the crucible where awareness is refined. This synergy guides us towards the heart of Kriya Yoga - a journey of self-discovery, transformation, and union." ~ Ashley Cruz

As we journey through this exploration of awareness, I invite you to engage in a practice. Find a quiet space, settle into a comfortable seat, and close your eyes. With each inhale, imagine yourself stepping into the role of the silent observer. As thoughts arise, visualize them as passing clouds in the sky of your consciousness – present yet impermanent. Embrace the ebb and flow of emotions without getting swept away. As you practice this, contemplate the various dimensions of your being that you've witnessed – the physical sensations, the thoughts, the feelings. By anchoring your awareness in this multidimensional space, you lay the foundation for greater clarity and self-understanding.

Stay tuned for the next part of this exploration, where we'll dive even deeper into the practice of body-centered meditation, as guided by Swami Satyananda Saraswati. In the meantime, reflect on how witness consciousness might transform your interactions with the world around you. Your comments and reflections are treasures I would love to hear – share them below and let's engage in this transformative dialogue together. Remember, your support through sharing and commenting helps nourish the growth of The Kriya Yoga Blog and spread the light of ancient wisdom far and wide.

Invitation to the Journey Into Self: Unveiling the Layers of Awareness and Body Consciousness in Kriya Yoga

Jackson Pollock's artwork 'Galaxy' (1947) features a mesmerizing burst of abstract expression, resembling a cosmic dance of colors and forms, inviting contemplation of the vast and unknown universe.

"Galaxy" by Jackson Pollock (1947)

"Embrace the dance of awareness and meditation, for in this rhythm, you discover the symphony of your soul. With each breath, with each mindful step, you journey closer to the heart of your being. Let the light of wisdom guide you, and let your practice be the map that leads you to the sacred shores of self-discovery. As you walk this path, remember, you are not alone. Your fellow seekers, your guides, and the universe itself dance with you. So, step boldly, breathe deeply, and become the embodiment of awareness and meditation. The journey is yours to unfold." ~ Ashley Cruz

As you absorb these insights and teachings, take a moment to reflect on your own journey. How does awareness weave its threads through your experiences? How does body-centered meditation unfold its mysteries within you?

Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your reflections add depth to our shared exploration. And if you find resonance in these teachings, consider sharing this blog post with fellow seekers who might also be embarking on their own paths of inner discovery.

Your support fuels the light of this blog, allowing us to continue delving into the realms of wisdom and practice. If you're moved to contribute, your donation supports the continuation of these enriching discussions.

As we partake in this journey of awareness and meditation, let us remember that each step is a testament to our commitment to transformation, a celebration of our inherent potential, and a dance of consciousness that unites us with the eternal rhythm of existence.

Guided Meditation: Embodied Awareness

As a gift to enhance your practice, I have prepared a guided meditation. Listen and experience the embrace of embodied awareness. Before listening to it, you may wish to view the following image of the skeletal and muscle system, as we focus our awareness on it throughout our meditation together.

Visual representation of the intricate human muscular and skeletal system, showcasing the body's structural and functional complexity.

* YOUTUBE *
* AUDIO RECORDING *

30% Off Private Yoga Classes

Image of a woman seated in meditation, with the text 'Private Yoga Classes. Bespoke. Transformative. Complete.' - highlighting the offer of private yoga classes with a 30% discount for a limited time.

A special offer for our readers: Elevate your practice with 30% off private yoga classes, both online and in person. Discover personalized guidance, tailored sessions, and a transformative journey towards holistic well-being.

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Book 1, Lesson 3, Topic 4-5: Pages From the Text

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The Root Cause of Tension: Lesson 2.6

6/2/2020

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About a week ago, I read the next chapter from the book I've re-explored since March, "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya." The topic's title was "The Root Cause of Tension," and the chapter offered readers an opportunity to relieve the body and mind of tension.

I can't think of a better time for this chapter to reenter my life and perhaps enter yours for the first time. As protests against injustice and racism occur worldwide in response to the death of George Floyd (and so many others), physical and emotional pain emanates from the hearts and faces of the people I view on the news. This most recent rise of global confusion, frustration, and understandable anger also seems exacerbated by the not-so-positive impacts of our global pandemic: fear, impatience, and anxiety. Not to mention the other worries that pile up as a result of global warming, climate change, and dirty politicians. It doesn't seem like such a surprise then that our world appears so tense, right? That so much in our world can result in tension in our bodies and minds?

What if I told you that by taking the time to read the 10 Codes for Mental Reprogramming as specified in our Kriya yoga book, your outlook on life would improve immediately? It's true. I promise! However, the choice is yours: you can take steps to make this world and your life a veritable heaven on earth, or you can remain as you are.

In this blog I’ve included the following gifts:

Lesson 2, Topic 6: The Root Cause of Tension (photos) -- If there was ever a lesson from this book that I feel could bring about an immediate and positive change in your life, it’s this lesson. I haven’t typed it up in its entirety, but I've included the photos of the lesson below for you to read at your leisure. I hope you read them.
Summary: And just in case you want to skip ahead for now and thus, not read the chapter in its entirety, I've written out the 10 Codes for Mental Reprogramming. However, the chapter itself explains why these codes are so important and how they work.
Voice Recording of the Chapter: And in case you prefer to have the chapter read to you, I've also included a voice recording of myself reading the chapter outloud. I like to give you all the options ;) Please, turn it on, sit back, close your eyes, and prepare to understand tension and how to relieve it in your life.
Video: And finally, for some heartwarming fun, I’ve included a video of myself demonstrating the entire Kriya Yoga Daily Practice Program that I have been doing from the book "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya." The video is sped up a bit, but you can see how the program looks in its entirety. And although Isabella and Jose accidentally make guest appearances as yogis, this video is essential to me because it demonstrates some of the benefits of a daily yoga practice. Connection. Peace. Adaptability. A lack of tension.

The Root Cause of Tension

The codes that Swami Satyananda Saraswati formulated are not intended to be moralistic. They are a means to an end. To reiterate, they are suggestions by which you can start to consciously alter your attitude towards life's situations. They are intended to relax you sufficiently, so that you can eventually delve into your mind through meditation practices and thereby root out the deeper negative aspects of your mental nature.

These codes are not supposed to change your lifestyle, and we don't advise you to force them on yourself at all times. Only remember them as you go about your daily routine and their presence will help you from within, from your subconsious 'attitude centres'. (61)

Codes for Mental Reprogramming

Code 1:
Make the effort to begin to accept other people fully. Try not to see them merely as objects to be used for your own gratification. Try to accept others as also acting in accordance with their mental conditioning. What you see in them is only an external manifestation of their mental program. In this way they are no different from you, except their program may be a little different. You are now aware of your dependence on your mental conditioning; perhaps they don’t realize it yet. If you can accept others more they in turn will start to accept you. Laugh at yourself, at your behavior and at your antics.

Code 2:
Accept yourself. Know that your actions are the result of your mental makeup. For this reason, don’t worry about your deficiencies and problems. Accept your limitations. But at the same time feel the need to clean the mind of its conflicts. It is our inability to accept ourselves that causes so much anguish in life.

Code 3:
Watch your habituated reactions to people around you and to your environment. Watch how your attachment to the external can result in so much discontentment. Try to reduce your need to find happiness in outside things. This does not mean that you should not follow external attractions for this would result in suppression, which causes more harm than good. It means that you should carry on your life as it is now, but if you don’t get what you want then accept it with a shrug of the shoulders, with a sense of detachment.

Code 4:
Find out your greatest needs, attachments, desires, etc. Be as critical as you can. A good method of discovering your attachments is to trace the cause of your present anger or your present unhappiness back to its source and there you will find the emotional and mental attitude that caused the disturbance. Particularly notice how you react with people whom you distinctively dislike or don’t get on with. These persons will help you to recognize and to eventually remove your emotional hang-ups. View the whole word and everyone in it as being your teacher.

Code 5:
Try to live in the now. Don’t live in the past by worrying about what has already happened or by reliving pleasurable past experiences. Don’t anticipate the future. Plans can be made, but see the planning as being part of the now, not as really being for the future. Try to live each moment, each present moment as fully as possible by giving your attention to the now. In this way you will start to live life to the fullest. When you do anything, from taking a bath to eating food, or sweeping the floor to earning your living, try not to think of when it will be finished. Enjoy every action that you do at the time that you do it. Try to enjoy the fact that you exist and that an expression of your existence is in your every action.

Code 6:
Don’t identify yourself completely with your actions, your body or your mind. Though you are trying to change your mind, it is only part of you. It is not your consciousness – the witness that sees all events that occur in your life.

Code 7:
Try to be more opens towards other people. Express your true feelings as much as possible. When we try to be what we are not, when we try to impress people and when we hide our inner feelings from others, we immediately experience mental tension and alienation. This tends to intensify our feelings of ‘me against the world’.

Code 8:
Remember that everyone has the potential to attain higher levels of awareness. A mans present attitude toward his environment or toward you is caused by mental programming. His present mode of living is temporary and will change and become more harmonious if and when he starts to understand himself and his mind. All of us have unrealized potential just waiting to be tapped. Try to see this potential in all people, no matter how different it may be.

Code 9:
Don’t avoid difficult situations. Normally we shape our lives so that we interact with people we dislike as little as possible. We continually try to associate ourselves with people and situations that tune in with our motional programming. As such we continue to live in a way that reinforces and satisfies our individual prejudices. Treat difficult situations and enemies as the greatest teachers. It is they who can show us most clearly the way in which our mental program works. It is our enemies who bring to the surface our emotional conflicts and prejudices. Very few of us are aware of programming and conditioning. When we recognize it then we can start to deal with it.

Code 10:
Try to put yourself in other people’s shoes. Instead of blindly reacting in ways that you are programmed, try to see the other person’s point of view. Remember your reaction is purely automatic. Try to change your response so that the current situation doesn’t cause you emotional upsets.

Lesson 2.6: Pages from the Book

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The Root Cause of Tension
(Recording)

My Kriya Yoga Practice

Last week, I set up my camera so that I could try to record the entire Kriya Yoga practice that I’ve been doing from the book I have been sharing with you all, "A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya", by Swami Satyananda Saraswati.

Only…. While it was recording, my family decided they would use my yoga mat too, with me… at the same time (I didn’t mind). As a result, my daily Kriya Yoga practice became an impromptu play and practice situation slash acroyoga session. A "go with the flow" situation. I hope you enjoy viewing it.

Works Cited:
Saraswati, Satyananda. A Systematic Course in the Ancient Tantric Techniques of Yoga and Kriya. Yoga Publications Trust, 2013.

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“For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you. Remember?”

5/13/2020

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SINGULARITY

SINGULARITY
by Marie Howe
          (after Stephen Hawking)
Do you sometimes want to wake up to the singularity
we once were?
so compact nobody
needed a bed, or food or money --
nobody hiding in the school bathroom
or home alone
pulling open the drawer
where the pills are kept.
For every atom belonging to me as good
Belongs to you.   Remember?
There was no   Nature.    No
them.   No tests
to determine if the elephant
grieves her calf    or if
the coral reef feels pain.    Trashed
oceans don’t speak English or Farsi or French;
would that we could wake up   to what we were
— when we were ocean    and before that
to when sky was earth, and animal was energy, and rock was
liquid and stars were space and space was not
at all — nothing
before we came to believe humans were so important
before this awful loneliness.
Can molecules recall it?
what once was?    before anything happened?
No I, no We, no one. No was
No verb      no noun
only a tiny tiny dot brimming with
is is is is is
All   everything   home

Complement with an ink-and-watercolor animation of Mojave American poet Natalie Diaz’s gorgeous poem of brokenness and belonging and an animated adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s feminist revision of the history of science.

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A Special Treat - A Yoga Class by Näthan Gangadean

4/20/2020

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When I first entered a public yoga class the year was 2005. I had been practicing on my own for a number of years, but I had never lived in a town before that had a yoga studio so close to my home. As a result of the convenient location and because of the amazing teachers I found I became an avid devotee of Devi Yoga in Sedona, Arizona.

Devi Yoga was the yoga studio for Ashtanga Inspired Yoga in Sedona and was owned by a powerful, powerful, powerful yoga teacher named Soni Gangadean. Her brother, Näthan Gangadean was also a yoga teacher at her studio and was very popular for his heartfelt classes full of breath, love, and energy. Näthan was also the yoga teacher to say whilst I was in downward facing dog (for what felt like a million hours), that downward dog was a "resting pose" and that we should try to find peace in that pose. Mmm hmm.

Soooo, as you can imagine, as a semi-new yogi to the powerful practice that is Ashtanga Yoga, I was in downward dog with shaking arms and tired legs, sweat was literally pouring off of my face, and my breath was shaky and shallow... So, naturally, in response to his "downward facing dog is a resting pose, find peace in this beautiful pose"... I thought to myself "WT serious fork are you talking about? This is not resting!"

So, you know... that happened.

But Näthan was sooooo right. And with practice and a different mindset, a more open mindset, downward facing dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) became a resting pose for me.

Näthan is magical. I don't really know how to say it any differently. His classes are always magical, always sincere, always beautiful. And so here you go, my gift to you, beginner or otherwise... An introduction to one of my favorite yoga teachers of all time, Näthan Gangadean. ~ Ashley

LISTEN TO YOGA CLASS

EXPERIENCE IT FOR YOURSELF

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Part Two: The World in a Raisin - A Mindfulness Meditation on Interconnectedness

4/7/2020

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Yesterday, we came to know our world through our senses -- seeing, touching, hearing, smelling, tasting -- and through the knowing faculty of the mind. We did so by eating one raisin mindfully.

As I mentioned in the last blog post and in the first edition of our mindfulness meditation practice, there's another important aspect of this meditation: becoming aware of interconnectedness. It can be helpful to think of mindful awareness as a lens. Sometimes we use it in a very focused way, as we just did with the raisin, using all our senses to observe every detail of our experience. And sometimes we widen the lens of mindfulness so that our awareness expands to take in the bigger picture. We nurture both of these aspects of awareness as we practice.

In this wider, more spacious view, we become aware of the larger context of being, in which we can see how everything is interconnected. Sometimes called, "looking deeply," this aspect of practice helps us become aware of the multitude of causes and conditions that are a very real part of our experience in this very moment. If you would like to experience this more expansive view, I invite you to follow along with a second set of Raisin Meditation instructions.

So, as promised, here is the second mindfulness meditation practice from one of the books we have been working with: Mindful Birthing: Training the Mind, Body, and Heart for Childbirth and Beyond, by Nancy Bardacke.

For this practice, you will need the following:

A raisin - or something similar that you can eat. Perhaps a grape, or a different type of dried fruit, anything that you can eat mindfully without making a mess
Someplace quiet to sit, comfortably and without disruption
A way to listen to this meditation

LISTEN TO MEDITATION

Reflections on the Raisin Meditation

Was this really a special raisin, or was it the quality of attention we brought to the experience, the face that we were really there for the eating of it, that made the taste so vivid?

Eating can be one of life's great joys. How many such moments of sheer delight are you missing every day because you're not really there for a bite of an apple or the taste of a peach? And how many other moments are you not fully experiencing, like the smell of the morning air as you step outside or the delicate shape of the flower in your neighbor's garden that bloomed overnight? And how many joyful moments of your pregnancy (or this moment of social isolation/solitude) are you missing because you are so busy rushing from one thing to the next?

Regardless of the physical discomforts of pregnancy -- the nausea, the backaches, the shortness of breath -- and all the uncertainties and worries you may be carrying about the future (even if you aren't pregnant), if you take a moment to really see, you will find that in this very moment you are a living, breathing miracle, with a new human being growing inside of you! And if you are missing this miracle, how many more such moments will you miss during the process of childbirth and parenting?

Perhaps taking a moment to stop and ask, "Where does the joy of living exist anyway?," you may find that it exists in the sweet taste of an orange, the sudden smile that lights up your baby's face, the warmth of a hug from your partner or a friend, or the sweet smell of your baby's skin. When we practice mindfulness we become more awake and alive in the present moment, for ourselves and for our children.

In many ways, the heart of parenting is about being fully present with our children. One way we can learn how to do this is by learning how to be fully present for and connected to ourselves in our own lives right now.

Coming Up...

Q&A: A Direct Experience of the Mind-Body Connection
Q & A: Encountering Resistance - Beginner's Mind to the Rescue
Recipe Time - We've been eating so many raisins mindfully lately, let's prepare something tasty and enjoy it mindfully, too!
A Story of Mindfulness in Action
The Breath: A Friend for Life
Guided Yogic Breathing Pranayama Meditation (Kriya Yoga Program)
Awareness of Breathing Meditation

Works Cited:
Bardacke, Nancy. Mindful Birthing: Training the Mind, Body, and Heart for Childbirth and Beyond. HarperOne, 2012.

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