What is Beauty? (and “Ankle Loop”)
When I was meditating this morning, the last lines of Keats’ ‘Ode on A Grecian Urn’ welled up in my thoughts: “Beauty is truth, truth beauty, — that is all/ Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.” … (READ MORE)
Nail Soup (and reminders)
One of my favorite fairy tales is the one about the traveler who teaches the old woman how to make “nail soup.” It is a cold, wintry night in the forest, and a traveler comes upon a hut. He knocks… (READ MORE)
When to Bring in the Tropical Plants (and stress v. distress)
From late September through the first week when there either are two or more nights forecast to below 38F or one night below 35F, I assiduously watch the 15-day weather forecast to determine when to bring in my tropical plants… (READ MORE)
What is “really” yoga?
Gopi Krishna, in this book The Awakening of Kundalini, writes: “Yoga exercises can also be directed toward worldly objectives. There are exercises that are conducive to the health and efficiency of the mind, others that lead to psychic gifts, and… (READ MORE)
Pratyabijna Hrdayam Sutra 17 (and organic energy)
The 17th sutra is “madhya vikasha cittananda labhah,” which is translated by Swami Shantananda as “the bliss of Consciousness is attained through expansion of the center.” Madyama, in our physical embodiment is the central channel, the sushumna nadi that runs… (READ MORE)
Organic Energy (the difference between “navel gazing” and making a difference)
There is a specific sequence to the major Anusara alignment principles even though ultimately we are doing all of the alignment principles simultaneously. “Organic energy,” the action of reaching out and making offering is the fifth of the physical principles. … (READ MORE)
New Computer (and the benefits of practice)
My friend D the other week had been talking about how much longer every thing takes to get done in a new city and home (he just moved across country). I was thinking about that as I work to get… (READ MORE)
Serenity Saturday this Weekend at CHY
When it gets cold and rainy, there is little I enjoy more than a good, warm restorative yoga practice. If you live in town, come join me this Saturday at Capitol Hill Yoga for this month’s Serenity Saturday workshop. I’ll be… (READ MORE)
“Opening to Grace” (and beginner’s mind)
I took this picture the other day when I was walking to work. I have seen TV cameras set up at this spot dozens of times to film news interviews. I have seen tourists galore photographing each other. I’ve seen… (READ MORE)
October Newsletter (web version for those not receiving mailings)
Dear Friends, What splendid fall mornings we are having. The neighborhood dogs are frisking in the park and the fall colors are starting to show. It is time to make tomato sauce and pickled peppers with the last of the… (READ MORE)