“Go Yoga Jane is dedicated to helping people discover the awakening and transformative practices of yoga, meditation and a life lived in balance and harmony.”

What is fear? According to Buddhism, there is unhealthy fear and healthy fear. For example, when we are afraid of something that cannot actually harm us – such as spiders – or something we can do nothing to avoid – such as old age or being struck down with smallpox or being run over by a truck – then our fear is unhealthy, for it serves only to make us unhappy and paralyze our will. On the other hand, when someone gives up smoking because they are afraid of developing lung cancer, this is a healthy fear because the danger is real and there are constructive steps they can take to avoid it.

We have many fears-fear of terrorism, fear of death, fear of being separated from people we love, fear of losing control, fear of commitment, fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of losing our job, the list is never-ending! Many of our present fears are rooted in what Buddha identified as “delusions” – distorted ways of looking at ourself and the world around us. If we learn to control our mind, and reduce and eventually eliminate these delusions, the source of all our fear, healthy and unhealthy, is eradicated.

Right now we need the healthy fear that arises from taking stock of our present situation so that we can resolve to do something about it. For example, there is no point in a smoker being scared of dying of lung cancer unless there is something that he or she can or will do about it, i.e. stop smoking. If a smoker has a sufficient fear of dying of lung cancer, he or she will take steps to kick the habit. If he prefers to ignore the danger of lung cancer, he will continue to create the causes of future suffering, living in denial and effectively giving up control.

Just as a smoker is vulnerable to lung cancer due to cigarettes, it is true that at the moment we are vulnerable to danger and harm, we are vulnerable to aging, sickness, and eventually death, all due to our being trapped in samsara-the state of uncontrolled existence that is a reflection of our own uncontrolled minds. We are vulnerable to all the mental and physical pain that arises from an uncontrolled mind-such as the pains that come from the delusions of attachment, anger, and ignorance.

We can choose to live in denial of this, thereby giving up what control we have, or we can choose to recognize this vulnerability, recognize that we are in danger, and then find a way to avert the danger by removing the actual causes of all fear (the equivalent of the cigarettes)-the delusions and negative, unskilful actions motivated by those delusions. In this way we gain control, and if we are in control we have no cause for fear.

A balanced fear of our delusions and the suffering to which they inevitably give rise,  is therefore healthy because it serves to motivate constructive action to avoid a real danger. We only need fear as an impetus until we have removed the causes of our vulnerability through finding spiritual, inner refuge and gradually training the mind. Once we have done this, we are fearless because we no longer have anything that can harm us.

The Dalai Lama celebrated his 75th birthday today with hundreds of followers in Dharmsala India, his hometown-in-exile since 1959, the year that he fled Chinese rule in Tibet.

His Holiness enjoyed performances from local dancers in traditional Tibetan dress, and was entertained by artists from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts at the Main Tibetan Temple in Mcleod Ganj.

Reflecting on his 75 years of life and work, which was projected on a ceremonial banner he said, “I know my life has not been wasted.” His audience and spectators donned umbrellas and stood in the rain for the near two-hour ceremony, to be a part of the celebrations.

What an amazing man. We are very fortunate to be living in a time where we can experience his teachings each and every day. A particular favorite learning tool which he authored is “The Art of Happiness.” It’s a classic. All of the secrets are contained in this simple and steadfast writing. Read it or listen to it often. It is very useful and deep at the same time.

A few days ago I had the good fortune to spend time at the Deer Park Buddhist Temple in Oregon, WI. I was magically impressed.  The temple is absolutely beautiful. It has been remodeled in the past few years due to the big visit from the Dalai Lama several years ago. The Dalai was also there this past May for one day.

This drawing represent the 8 auspicious symbols and is located at the beginning of the drive into the park. It was created in May to celebrate H.H's visit.

The 8 auspicious symbols represent certain aspects of the Dharma. My picture doesn’t do justice to this lovely work of art.

I met many very kind people at the temple and was gently guided into the evening. The experience of visiting is highly recommended. Geshe Tenzin Dorje-la led the teachings. He was ordained at 6 years old. He is known for being a brilliant scholar and accomplished teacher and yet is very down to earth and practical in his approach.

http://www.deerparkcenter.org/

June was retreat month for “Go Yoga Jane!” Two retreats were held and many lovely yogis and yoginis attended. We were at the north shore in Two Harbors, MN., June 11-13, and we were in central WI., at The Christine Center during the full moon weekend of June 25-27.

What is the intention of going on a retreat? We discussed this quite a bit and discovered that the intention is to bring our attention to our intention, in other words, what we are doing, how we are living and why. Reflection. Paying attention. Slowing down and opening to something new with a curious and non-judgemental mind. We retreat to spend time getting away from our usual crazy lives and schedules. We go somewhere different. We meet new people. We eat different food and see different landscapes. We do things differently. We practice lots of yoga and we meditate. Sometimes we are quiet and sometimes we are talking to other like-minded people which is really nice and refreshing.

Usually we come back feeling inspired about life and happy. We affirm or realize new things while we were gone. We have fun and laugh. Here are some genuine pictures from the “Go Yoga Jane” June retreats. OM OM OM

Two Harbors yoginis:) Don't they look relaxed and happy?

Even though it rained much of the weekend, we still had a lovely time. We had a great opportunity to practice detachment:)

Jane and Marilyn are so calm. OM OM OM

Smiling was the norm all weekend. Fun!

Perfect pigeons!

Here are some of our Christine Center group. Josh is hiding in the back row:)

All of our Christine Center group gathered here Saturday nite. A bullfrog in the pond nearby entertained us along with fireflies:)

Michael, Sharon and Sam helped us through the weekend. Sharon is an amazing chef!

When I woke up Sunday I spotted two deer coming out the woods. Can you see them?

The weekend was ending...everyone looking peaceful and radiant:)

Recently the Dalai Lama addressed a lucky group at Radio City Music Hall in NYC for three full days of teachings. Would have loved to attend. Maybe next year. Many of those whom attended wrote that it was one of his best. Magnificent.

A respected teacher & mentor of mine was there and discovered a great lesson before he even began speaking. The lighting on stage where the Dalai sits on his throne are very bright so that everyone can see him. He takes the stage and is wearing a tiny tennis visor to soothe his eyes from the bright lights.  Later at a luncheon he was asked about the visor and said that he wore it to shield his eyes from the bright lights. Instead of asking the stage managers to change the lighting to his liking, he turns it into a lesson. Work with things as they are.

We have moments every day to employ this lesson. It is so habitual to want to change, fix, complain about and control our environment. We spend quite a bit of energy doing so. Truthfully most of what we spend time changing or fixing isn’t permanent anyway. There might be a little relief but then organically things return to their natural state.

Here is a little experiment which might be fun. Take one week out of your life and try to just deal with things as they are without the need to change them. It’s going to be hard…yes. Obviously if it affects your safety  that doesn’t count. Common sense. I mean just the dumb little things that drive you crazy. The things you habitually complain about that really don’t matter. Your energy is very powerful. Direct it creatively and see what sort of freedom and joy come along. Write about it.  Each day pay attention.

Peace,

Yoga Jane

Boboli Gardens-Florence, Italy

The notion of a salutation to the sun is to pay respects to the universe - specifically the sun, our source of light and life. It organically reminds us of our connection to the sun because intense heat is generated through the continuous movement. You will get hot and sweaty, which feels purifying, like taking a bath from the inside out.

In many cultures, light has long been a symbol of consciousness and self-illumination. Our primary source of light is, of course, the sun. When we look at our closest star, we may see nothing more than a big yellow ball. But for thousands of years, the Hindus have revered the sun, which they call Surya, as both the physical and spiritual heart of our world and the creator of all life itself. For the Hindus, the sun is the “eye of the world” (loka chakshus), seeing and uniting all selves in itself, an image of and a pathway to the divine.

One of the means of honoring the sun is through the dynamic asana sequence Surya Namaskar - better known as Sun Salutation.  The Sanskrit word namaskar stems from namas, which means “to bow to” or “to adore.”

The familiar phrase we use to close our yoga classes, namaste—te means “you”—also comes from this root. Each Sun Salutation begins and ends with the joined-hands mudra (gesture) touched to the heart. This placement is no accident; only the heart can know the truth.

The entire sequence of Surya Namaskar contains the entire practice within it. If we look at each posture that makes up the sequence of the sun salutations, we get a wide range of movements: forward bend, back bend, being still, lengthening the spine, grounding the feet, strengthening the upper body, stretching the hamstrings, expanding the lungs and more. By hearing the breath, holding our gaze, these movements allow us to center ourselves and to quiet our wandering mind.

Today is a great day to go outside and practice Surya Namaskar!

Enjoy-

Yoga Jane

As we continue on the path of awakening our heart to others and offering loving-kindness,  the simple act of  “being there,” is profound.  Awareness. Presence. Being with. Sitting. Deep listening means to practice not preparing a response while listening. This requires humility. We are an observer instead of the problem solver. We may even think we know the answer and should help. SSSSHH. Be very very quiet. Just be there for that person with an open heart and loving intention. Looking into someones eyes can be very powerful. See them.

Life is full of speedy interactions and we are overwhelmed with sound and sights. There are times when we just need some space to be quiet with another caring soul. Recently I spent time with a friend who is working through some big stuff and I realized while being with them that what they needed most from me, was to just simply be there with no agenda, solutions, grand ideas or schemes to fix or solve. They just needed to feel the energy of another caring human.

In essence we are practicing with another how to stay in “the middle,” while at the same time allowing another to honestly feel the sadness or uncertainty, and to be okay with the experience of  “cool loneliness.” With cool loneliness we may feel like no one gets us, we really and truly are all alone and feeling  very uncomfortable and not sure what to do. It’s okay to be in that state now and again, and we can help others be there by reminding them of that through our quiet presence.

Slow down and help others slow down. Remember that when people are experiencing important personal growth or change, they have a period of unrest and unknowing before they gain clarity.  It might be a short time or a long time. Don’t judge. “The Beatles” wrote a song called “Let it Be,” with good reason:)

Notice your patterns. If you are always the fixer or rescuer try to step out of that role by listening without response. It might feel better for both parties. Whew, what a relief. Too many words or advice almost never create the powerful change people are seeking.

When walking walk. When listening listen. When sitting sit.

Peace,

Yoga Jane

Last week I was lucky enough to spend a day at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum. I’ve been visiting this gem of horticulture and nature since I was 17 years old. Going there inspires me about life and wellness. It always lifts my mood if I need it. Living in Minnesota allows me to witness spring in it’s full glory. Especially after a long challenging winter.

Getting quiet and seeing with eyes and ears was my intention.  I found a spot at the edge of the woods and witnessed: two wild turkeys slowly walking through the woods with their heads bobbing…funny! Perfectly plump pine cones swaying in the breeze…tulips fully bloomed reaching up to greet the sun….geese meditating with daffodils..cardinals…wrens and hummingbirds…

freshly blooming apple trees

simple beauty

Happy Spring. Enjoy the simplicity:)

Yoga Jane

Buddhist Temple in Hawaii

One of my favorite of the eight limbs of yoga, as outlined by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras , known as the second observance, or niyama, which is santosha, is contentment. It is an essential key to all the niyamas and a necessary condition for enlightenment. Remember that enlightenment isn’t a fixed state we arrive at permanently, yet is possible in small moments or doses. Contentment clears the way for the integration of all that yoga offers.

Contentment is a requirement for peace of mind, yet we live in a culture that fosters discontentment. We are bombarded by advertisements that make us feel inadequate and promote a continual grasping for material wealth and sensual experience. We are taught to seek superficial gratification with no regard for future consequences for ourselves or the world. We become attached to things and people to avoid our personal discomfort. We are led to believe that satisfaction of our cravings, as well as our egos, will bring happiness. To the contrary, ignorance, egoism, attachment, aversion and clinging to the sensual are actually obstacles to our contentment and our prospects for liberation. These five obstacles (called kleshas in the yoga texts) are the causes of all suffering. No wonder people can be so short-tempered and grouchy!

What is contentment, and how do we make it useful as an “observance” in our lives? Contentment is serenity, but not complacency. It is comfort, but not submission; reconciliation, not apathy; acknowledgment, not aloofness. Contentment is a mental decision, a moral choice, a practiced observance, a step into the reality of higher awareness. Santosha is the natural state of our humanness and our divinity and allows for our creativity and love to emerge. It is knowing our place in the universe at every moment. It is unity with the largest, most loving reality.

Too often we think too small. Some people believe they must close their eyes to the suffering of others in order to maintain their own contentment. They confuse indifference with detachment, passivity with peacefulness, and isolation with equanimity. But hiding our head in the sand will not guarantee contentment. There is an old saying from India: “You can wake up a sleeping person but you cannot awaken someone who is pretending to sleep.”

There are several ways to cultivate contentment. We can practice yoga postures, pranayama (deep breathing) and meditation to keep our energies balanced and our mind serene–qualities that lead toward contentment. We can keep a journal of things for which we are grateful. The deepest contentment comes at those moments when we feel we are in the flow of life, when we are communing with nature, when our energies are positive and when we have no desires. By being conscious of these moments, we can strengthen, expand and sustain the feeling of contentment for longer periods of time. Even when we are surrounded by chaos and disharmony, we can return to this feeling and find ourselves back in a place of peace and calm. The state of contentment becomes a familiar place when we observe it throughout the day. The key is to bring our attention fully to it when it occurs and not hurry on to the next activity. And by affirming our place in the cosmos and our connection to others, it is easier to find inner peace.

One of the benefits of contentment is emotional maturity or in Buddhism this is referred to as “skilled behavior.” Dramatic mood swings diminish, and personal crises are no longer the end of the world. Global events do not push us into isolated selfishness, but rather into community. Self-absorption is no longer the theme of our life. The loss of a job, the end of a relationship, or the nightly news broadcast does not leave us feeling devastated or powerless. This does not mean we have no feelings. But when we consciously practice santosha, we spend more time in contentment and less time in agitation, more time in consciousness awareness, and less time in the emotionality of anger or depression or other negativities. Contentment offers a doorway into another way to experience the world. There is elegance to how it shapes power in lives and allows for greater service to the world.

We live in times of great upheaval, whether we call it the 21st century or the end of the Kali yuga (the age of darkness). We are riding on a wave made of many changes, and because the wave is so high and moving so quickly we cannot always see clearly. People’s lives across the planet are agitated by economic disparities, war, climate change and fears of the unknown. We are both the product and creator of these conditions; we help reinforce in one another the qualities of love or fear, contentment or discontentment. Ignoring these factors or becoming overwhelmed by them serves no one. The embrace of a larger reality is necessary in order to give us the courage to act as well as the solace of daily sustenance.

Many respected leaders who promote non-violence and work toward enlightening the world have recognized that the cultivation of contentment is a requirement for working to alleviate the misery and suffering that surrounds them. Some of these spiritual souls, all of whom were nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, are Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Aung San Suu Kyi (a Buddhist leader in Burma under house arrest for years and Nobel Peace Prize winner, 1991), Shirin Ebadi (a woman Iranian human rights lawyer and the first Muslim to win the Nobel Peace Prize, 2003), Jodi Williams (founder of International Campaign to Ban Land Mines, who persuaded 122 countries to sign the Land Mine Ban treaty, and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, 1997), Kathy Kelly (Catholic peace worker, nominated twice for the Nobel Peace Prize and recently jailed for peaceful protest at the School of Americas in Fort Benning, Georgia). All of these people observe contentment as they work for non-violent change, even in the face of harassment, criticism and jailings.

The eight limbs of yoga serve as a map for transformation, bringing balance to the inner and outer life. The eight limbs are yamas (restraints), niyamas (observances), asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (sense withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (contemplation). These are useful tools to harmonize us as social beings and to balance us as individuals. The purpose of these eight limbs is to free us to realize our full potential.

May all hearts be at ease. May our contentment promote the energy to alleviate suffering and turn ignorance into knowledge. May the practice and cultivation of santosha guide us to courageous action, deeper community and greater love of all sentient beings.

Much Peace,
Yoga Jane

Old Door in Cortona Italy

It takes great discipline to practice the art of “being present.”  We are conditioned from the moment we wake, until we close our eyes and sleep, to being busy. When we come from that place, we are never really where we are, doing what we are doing, engaging fully in the moments of our lives. Some people don’t like to slow down. It scares them. It makes them notice their feelings and thoughts and wonder about their lives. Am I happy? What do I want?

Sit down and be still for a bit today. Notice your breathing. Notice your body breathing and your breath moving through your body. Just 5 minutes would be nice. Touch into your life that way and calm down a bit. You will nourish and replenish.

Reflect on times when you have felt really aware, present and relaxed. Noticing everything going on, within you and around you. As I reflect on my life these days, I look back at how raising my children were times where I felt very present and relaxed. Especially when they were very young. If we were at the park, or reading or eating together I loved experiencing through their filter, what the world was like. How new and fresh everything was. Long moments would pass and not much would happen. And it was truly satisfying. Very in the moment.

In the past few years I’m noticing that being present in nature gives me a great feeling of being present and open to possibilities. It sparks my creativity.  Being a city dweller I appreciate the culture and vibe of city life, yet being outside in nature or near water  is unbeatable for soothing our soul and calming our mind. It’s like gazing into a fire. We can all relate to the mesmerizing quality of gazing into a fire. It brings us home to ourselves.

Walking meditation is a wonderful way of cultivating being present . Try this. Now that Spring is here, go outside in nature as soon as time permits. Find a quiet place to walk. Walk slowly while being conscious of each step. The way your foot hits the ground. The way that feels. Just that. That is all you have to do. Just walk and notice. (and watch out for other people or things to bump into)

Best-

Yoga Jane