Awakening Self Blog
Practice, Not Perfection
When we get caught up in the belief that we can become perfect – and the distress that causes – we can remember these two principles from yoga philosophy, let go, and relax a bit.
Everyone makes mistakes. We all know this, but perfectionism, righteousness, and expectations often cloud our memory. We tend to come down hard on ourselves (or others) for the things we say, do, or think. Our previous ideals of who we are run smack into the wall of realization that we’ve blown it.
The Season of Gratitude
In North America, we think of thankfulness in November. But the harvest season begins in August and goes all through the fall. Right now is the season of gratitude.
The end of summer and early autumn begins the flurry of reaping the earth’s bounty before the cold weather arrives. From August on, the grain harvests begin. These were highly celebrated for millennia, particularly by the Europeans whose very survival through the bitter winter depended on a successful stock of the late summer-autumn grains.
I Choose to Continue
Deciding whether to venture onto an unfamiliar trail was difficult and brought up fear – but choosing, rather than deciding, got me through to the river.
It was a hot day in Nevada City, where I was staying with a friend for a few days. I had the afternoon free and wanted to explore the Yuba River, so I decided to head out on my own to find a shady refuge by the water.
I hoped to find a quiet place on the river to do Sit Spot. But when I arrived and ambled around the main access path down to the water, it was clear there was little shade, and no peace and quiet. In these temperatures, everyone was swimming and partying at the river.
Which meant that if I were to find a more peaceful spot, I’d have to set off on a trail.
The Gift of the Trees
Trees offer us a beautiful example of selfless giving that we can all endeavor to emulate on the spiritual path.
What greater blessing is there at a park or on a hiking trail on a hot summer day than a shady tree? (well, maybe a cold drink!) Trees are truly a gift to all living beings, and we’re reminded of this in the summertime, when they provide a much-needed reprieve from the intense rays of the sun.
Cultivate Joy
Even when we're struggling or down, joy is possible. We can cultivate it and allow it to carry us, like a gentle breeze into our sails, through the ups and downs of life. Whether you're reading this at an amazing time in your life, or one of strife - whether our outer...
Be Like Still Water
All of us have a part of ourselves known as the Inner Witness. Developing this neutral aspect of ourselves, that can watch our thoughts, emotions, sensations, and experiences without judging, is essential to releasing stress, finding inner peace, and spiritual awakening.