Gradually, through meditation, we begin to notice that there are gaps in our internal dialogue. In the midst of continually talking to ourselves, we experience a pause, as if awakening from a dream. We recognize our capacity to relax with the clarity, the space, the open-ended awareness that already exists in our minds. We experience moments of being right here that feel simple, direct and uncluttered.
- Pema Chodron
Old Short Hills Park Trails Friday Morning.....
The excerpt above is from a beautiful book written by Pema Chodron that sits on my bedside table titled Comfortable with Uncertainty - 108 teachings on cultivating fearlessness and compassion. I love this book because each page provides a teaching that you can read and really sink your teeth into for a while. The page I opened up to is entitled Why Meditate?
"We experience moments of being right here that feel simple, direct and uncluttered." Does this resonate with you or even peak your interest? Simple, direct and uncluttered. Just hearing those words gives me a sense of hope and calm especially in a world where we feel a cultural pull to rush ahead, get things done, and do more each day. We all deserve to slow down and feel more connected to our experiences in life. Really, what is all the rush about?
Did you notice Pema Chodron used the word gradually? Practices such as yoga and more formal seated meditation take time to cultivate just like anything else.
So we are patient and we practice. I use the example of my 17 year old daughter who decided to pick up the piano last year. It requires a heart felt interest, dedication, repetition, and time. Going back to the same notes again and again. She can't possibly expect to play Bach's Prelude in C major after taking five piano lessons. So as students of yoga or more formal seated meditation practices we know that these things take time and commitment. Each of us has the capacity for openness, spaciousness, and being free. Yoga and meditation are in essence a set of tools for us to discover this capacity within ourselves.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
Sundays 4:30pm-5:30pm www.bhaktibarn.com
Mondays 9am-10am Summit YMCA www.thesay.org
Tuesdays 11:15am-12:15pm www.bhaktibarn.com
Tuesdays 6pm-7pm Summit YMCA www.thesay.org
Been awhile since you unrolled your mat? Email me if you are interested in starting back quietly for privates or small group privates at your home including guided meditation sessions
MID WINTER MINI RETREAT
WITH JENNY & SHERRI WEDNESDAY February 15th 12:45-2pm
Save the date!
Location: Bhakti Barn Yoga Studio, Millburn
Link to sign up here (under the workshop tab) or call 973.232.6227 www.bhaktibarn.com
Pre registration highly recommended.
NEW CLASS ON YOUTUBE
30 Minute Sun Salutations
Stay warm & find some time to chill out through these practices.
No pun intended!