Monday, May 30, 2011

BE PRESENT

We are called to value the power of presence more than we value the presence of power.  May we bring our full attention to this day, so that our presence may be offered to all we encounter. May we be guided by the Presence that is always within and around us.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Obstacles are Within

The Yoga tradition could not be more clear about what stands between you and the “there” you seek. Your obstacles are within. The pain of not resolving them may grate enough to generate a fire that will diminish them bit by begrudging bit or you can practice the yoga that cultivates your soul’s fire. Spirit’s flame is power, embodying all that you aspire to and marking the path out of the weeds that keep you from it.

Rod Stryker

Saturday, May 21, 2011

The turmoil in our world ... how blessed we remain.

How little my countrymen know what precious blessings they are in possession of, and which no other people on earth enjoy?

Thomas Jefferson

Friday, May 20, 2011

Bhakti: The Yoga of Devotion

The Sanskrit word bhakti is taken from the root bhaj, which translates "to adore or worship God." Bhakti yoga is the yoga of devotion. Its ultimate goal, like any other form of yoga, is self-realization and union with the Divine. One of the most common styles of bhakti yoga is kirtan, a centuries-old spiritual practice found in many traditions. Thanks in part to popular kirtan singers like Deva Premal, Krishna Das, and Wah!, as well as the recent growth of yoga and spirituality specific niche record labels like Nutone and Mantralogy, kirtan is currently experiencing a renaissance.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Thought for Today

"Sometimes a smile is the source of your joy. And sometimes joy is the source of your smile."

Thich Naht Hahn

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Yoga Nidra

The ancient yogis developed Yoga Nidra as a method of achieving deep and complete relaxation while maintaining consciousness. During this session, all you'll need to do is wear comfortable clothing, lie down, be at ease and listen as you are guided through systematic relaxation and visualization techniques.

Our bodies and minds can barely keep up with the demands of modern life and its rapid pace. Physical tension leads to tight muscles, decreased immunity, insomnia, high blood pressure and other health conditions prevalent today. Mental tension makes us feel restless, worried, anxious and unable to realize our creative potential. Sleep is not the same thing as relaxation and other activities we think of as "relaxation" are simply diversions of our attention.

Yoga Nidra breaks through stress and tension in order to motivate healing and change. You'll leave feeling rested, rejuvenated and calm, a rarity in today's hectic world.