Collective Wisdom from Yogis

to help navigate uncertain times . . .

The title of our study for August Yoga Philosophy was “Preparing for a New Reality”. I offered this subject to help inspire a positive focus during the continued uncertainty of COVID and a divisive election year.

It is more important than ever for us to know “who we want to be” but, first, we must figure out “who we don’t want to be”. This practice of “doing no harm” (ahimsa) takes awareness, courage and letting go of the old wounds and patterns that serve no one. The most common patterns worth letting go of are not feeling good enough and needing approval (weak ego), and judging or needing to fix/change others and/or the world (strong ego).

On my walk in the woods, the red spotted newt affirmed this possibility for positive transformation, as we allow the old parts of ourselves (and of our collective culture) to fall away. The newt can regrow a new limb if one falls off! What might our new limbs look like? Try on these new limb thought patterns: Un-doing, Not doing, Being. How about “Let me see every person and event as an opportunity to become a better person myself, and surrender the rest”. You’ll be surprised how much more goodness you bring to the world this way!

With great love,

Julie

For further encouragement, please click on "continuing reading" to read the heartfelt wisdom from our Yoga Community, based on this month’s Yoga Philosophy Course discussion:

 

 "This months videos were really powerful for me, helping me better understand how I can be easily triggered to not feel good enough. It surprises me when it happens. The ideas you shared in the video, related to visualizing those cords or ties to the past, and cutting them loose, will help me so I can respond from a place that isn’t from old wounds. I also appreciate the reminder to surrender any need to fix or change another, but to just sit and listen." ~Karen B.

"Sometimes I find myself angry and not even knowing why. I re-watch these videos and remember that I can be like the lotus flower that grows up out of the mud." ~ Kathy J.

"I liked how the videos made me aware of the “dream” we all live in, as well as how we each have a Shadow. This has helped me to pause and at least “do no harm”. It helps me learn from difficult people, and take away the lesson they are offering me." ~Mary C.

"In my work with students, I observe that they are feeling constant judgment from all influences. Communication is often not face to face, and it makes it difficult to understand what is reality. I often wonder if, as humans, we are just not properly equipped for our current technology. Yoga offers tools to reconnect with ourselves and make better connections with others." ~Sandy G.

"This month’s videos helped me notice when I can get “grippy” about my beliefs. Rather than following a dogmatic ideology, I can can check back in with my Center." ~Eve S.

"This month’s videos were a deep dive into how therapeutic Yoga can be, perhaps especially helpful for our young adults, almost half of whom, according to a recent survey of college based therapists, are emotionally unwell. I’m optimistic that Yoga can provide the tools to help young adults change their perception of depression, anxiety, and stress, teaching those who choose to take advantage of yoga a way to better manage the current pressures they face each day." ~Neil H.

"I especially resonated with the reminder to have Witness Consciousness, especially aware of how the “not good enough” patterning is in our physical, emotional and mental bodies. I’ve been noticing what can happen in the pause, in the stillness, where there is no judgment." ~Maya B.

"I appreciate being reminded to not be attached to the results of my work or actions, and especially enjoyed the breath, relaxation and meditation practices this month. "~Angela M.

"I liked your example of the cell in our body, and how its doing its own perfect job. I can do just that at my work, not taking things personally, being true to my Self, staying on the Path, focused on being the Light." ~Desiree W.

I enjoyed hearing you talk about what 5 Dimensional reality is like, including Intuition and Surrender. It has helped me step back and receive better direction when faced with difficult problems that I’d otherwise want to fix, accepting that we’re just not able to solve everything. ~Rebecca F.

I especially loved your video on the mushrooms, as it reminded me how we’re all connected as spiritual beings, and that energy can’t die but be transformed, and returned to Source. ~Tom H.

Your nature videos inspired me to go on my walk with a new awareness, and a shift in my focus. Finding myself locking eyes with a handsome buck made my day! It made my day and gave me a message about Intuition and Peace. ~Pam H.

Your nature videos remind me to slow down in order to notice the miracles of Life. I am enjoying this pause and my quietness to work on my Divine Spiritual Connection. I am particularly practicing Faith & Patience. ~Diane S.