Coming Home We have all been in situations where we have felt uncomfortable. That feeling might have become poignant in a moment of being unwelcome in some way, or maybe just unfamiliar. Maybe pain was the reason to be uncomfortable, physical or emotional. Either way, we I believe we all yearn to feel as though we belong, that we are welcome, a feeling of goodness in the air surrounding. Often external forces in our lives can cause us to feel pain or uncomfortable, possibly affecting us slowly, so slowly we barley notice until it all hits a maximum. When I wake up in the morning I ask myself, “How do I feel?” I scan my physical body for pinches in the muscles or tight spots, my emotional state and my mental focus. I ask myself, “Do I feel at home?” Life’s seasons change and at times we are in a job we detest, we have a broken heart, we are in love, we are promoted, sometimes nearly catatonic with boredom, other times inspired and motivated. No matter the moment, I try to remember to be present, and to remember that my attitude, and perception of the matter is in my hands. With that said, we as humans are very powerful. He have choice. If a job, lifestyle, environment is causing us to be ill, or diseased in anyway, we have the power to make choices to change things. These actions can require patience to witness manifestation of said action and result. However, sometimes it can all happen quickly and dynamically. To me, the point and the goal is to accept it all for what it is, take the lessons that come along the way, and strive to be the best human I can be, no matter what; ultimately feeling truly at home in my own skin. I was reminded of these ideas this morning by my own beloved teacher, recharging me so, I feel it would be selfish to keep this reminder to myself, as a result, a simple reminder to you too.
Did you know that science has found that meditation does wonders for mental health?
"Researchers at Harvard, Yale, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have found evidence that meditation can alter the physical structure of our brains. Brain scans they conducted reveal that experienced meditators boasted increased thickness in parts of the brain that deal with attention and processing sensory input." sited from, http://www.physorg.com/news10312.html
Meditation helps you to connect to your spirit. "Prayer is talking to God, meditation is listening to God."
Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Personally, my most profound spiritual moments have been during meditation.
It is also good for marriage. When done together, meditation can help you to connect to your partner on a deeper level. That connection can lead to better communication and a greater understanding for one another.
Meditation also teaches us how to be fully aware in a moment.
Have you ever found yourself sitting in front of your child, a friend, or your spouse, when they are telling you something, only for you to realize moments later that you have not heard a word they said? Wouldn't you like to be fully present in the moment that you are in? Having the ability to give your full attention to one thing at a time can result in better finished projects, conversations and daily tasks, like driving.
Meditating leaves you feeling calm, relaxed, and grounded. It can move you from a scattered and over stimulated mind, to one that is clear and collected.
What does it mean to meditate? Setting an allotted amount of time in your day to sit, be still and not "do" anything. Not think about anything, or talk to anyone, to be still. In our multi-tasking culture, you may have to think back to the last time you were still or present.
If you are interested in trying meditation out for yourself, your chance is on it's way!
Friday July 23rd, 2010 at COIL Yoga Studio at 6:45pm-8:45pm
I will be leading students through a series of soft Yoga postures that prepare the body for sitting comfortably. Followed by assisting students to set up a seat to meditate on, using blankets and bolsters, or if you prefer a chair. Once we are settled, I will star by guiding you through a meditation Then together we will sit in silence to basque in the stillness we create. The room will be lit by candles and free from distractions.
You will be joined by people new to meditation, and those who are experienced as well. Everyone is welcome.
Cost is $35 per person.
You can sign up at: www.coilyoga.com by emailing the studio
or
email me at sarabadorineyoga@gmail.com
