(January 2017 Meditations) Following through on the talk on intention and motivation, the question is how do we live an intentional life? How do we honestly and clearly see the motivation? Finding the answers requires some effort in directed self-reflection, looking at how we have lived mindfully and mindlessly, and then writing the script for... Continue Reading →
(January 2017 Meditations) Why are we meditating? Clearly knowing the personal intention, and what motivates that intention, can make an enormous difference to the understanding and discipline we bring to our practice. What is meant by intention? Why is the motivation behind the intention so important? This can apply to anything, not just meditation. The... Continue Reading →
Guided meditations require less effort than the ones that require independent effort. The ease leads to greater states of deep relaxation for many who struggle with other types of practices. In over 40 years of practicing and teaching, Yoga Nidra is by far the most popular of any practice I have taught.
This article traces the path of mindfulness: American term for meditation; a term for the Theravada vipassana meditations; a certain type of attention or dhyana.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6Il-vBooKA&feature=youtu.be This meditation was done by Meena Modi through Zoom on April 26, 2020 as a part of a series of Yoga Nidras in response to the COVID-19 crisis. The sky of awareness provides relief from the stress and anxiety, becoming a refuge of peace. Over time, the awareness becomes deeper and more concentrated. It... Continue Reading →
What we feed the mind, affects the health of the mind. So it is important to boost ourselves up with people who make us feel good, who bring out the best in us, not drag us down. Indulge in activities are constructive and uplifting. Do things that make you happy, peaceful, content, in a healthy way.
"To love means to open ourselves to grief, sorrow, and disappointment as well as to joy, fulfillment, and thus an intensity of consciousness that before we did not know was possible." This quote from the American psychologist Rollo May spoke to many in this room.
If we are deeply aware of what we feel, grief has the potential to dramatically change our old habitual thinking. We can be transformed by it and find an enduring sense of peace. It may force a re-examination of everything.
The clouds that wander through the sky
Have no roots, no home;
Nor do the distinctive thoughts that float through the mind.
Mahasri Yoga 