autumn focus

We watch summer sliding effortlessly into autumn, and the invitation to look within continues. The next series of classes at the Yoga Sanctuary will emphasis this journey inward to live what yoga is. Our practice on the mat is only helpful if we are living in the crucible of truth every moment, burning away the blocks that bind us, and together we uplift and encourage each other along the way.

In heightened circumstances like birth and death, falling in love, or watching a golden sunset, there is an undeniable invitation to become present; we may choose to respond to that invitation or not. Either way, the opportunity is always available to arrive in the present moment. As we become more practiced in presence, mindfulness, and truth telling, we begin to realize that everything is unfolding for our benefit. The benevolent Divine is always calling, but we can’t hear that until we become still and silent within. We don’t have to wait for a dramatic event either! This invitation is eternally now.

As anyone who has meditated before can vouch, the first time we try to meditate can be overwhelming! Our mind is like a flea, bouncing here and there, seemingly impossible to catch! In this beginning phase, many of us decide that stopping the mind is just too hard. We return to our “normal” life and endless cycles of suffering. But for those of us who are dedicated to finding peace (and/or die trying!), we discover that the mind doesn’t control us once it is tamed. The mind is simply a tool along the way. When the mind is used skillfully, it is the sharpest tool in the box. When the mind is used unskillfully, it is like a jackhammer on the loose! One way to unplug the demolition device of unwise mind, is to unplug it with true Yoga practice.

I have found there is so much help available; all we have to do is ask…and really be open to listen to the ever present answer. In the meantime, see you in class!