Walking out of the airport the heat and humidity shower over me, greeting me with some tropical love of last days of the rainy season.
An hour to pass while we wait for a fellow yogini to arrive, what could be better that getting some local flavor. The fish taco place is right across the peeling yellow paint of the metal bridge. The place is like a garage with doors fully open and a wide open welcoming, accompanied by some friendly waiters.
The restaurant is dark even though there are no doors, the old paint on the walls covered with lots of black and white photos of proud fishermen with swordfish as their prize, a TV showing a soccer match with all the waiters looking up at the little figures running around on a semi green grass, after the black and white ball. Time is slower here, and no one seems to be in a rush, but neither are we, so we enjoy the new atmosphere. The waiters were very aware of whatever need we might have, which later, we would find more of, at Haramara. I had a feeling that they really cared, took their position of being in service with utmost respect. When teaching a yoga class I always enter with the same intention. Like an eagle from above, seeing who might need help, what verbal cue may I offer to hint the person in the back to adjust slightly, what gentle touch can I offer to better the experience of the student.
Wiping off constant sweat, I finish the last bite of the finely grilled fish in its wonderful subtle spice sauce.
Returning to the airport, yogini girl’s flight is delayed another hour or so, so we head to the bar to get our first cerveza in Mexico. Well, in reality it was the only one I had, but more than anything it gave a feeling of celebration. At times it is not about what I do, but the intention and how often I do it that springs a sense of celebration. Even the most amazing thing done all the time, over and over again, can lose its charm. Here comes the practice of celebrating the mundane, the every day life, as if anything we do is sacred, a ceremony, as if every time is the first time.
The mini van that took us an hour drive north to Haramara was an American SUV with powerful air conditioning and a mighty driver. It will be a whole week till we step again into the space of controlled weather. Traffic slows down as the bridge we need to cross has collapsed into the river, surrendering to the power of the heavy rains coming down just shortly before our arrival. We shared lanes with the newer bridge, and felt what it was like in the days when there was only one bridge. It is amazing how hard it is to go backwards, to lose comforts that are already gained. If I never had running water, and all I knew was going to the well outside to fetch it, than that would be my life, but if for some months I have the luxury of a tap in my home, then returning to what I had for a much longer time frame would be a total hardship. Same with having a better freeway, and then having it collapse. Nothing lasts forever.
The adventurous driver took us through the shoulders, around road barriers and an inch from a bus, testing the conditioning we have of what proper driving might be. The last bit of road was where the SUV needed to prove itself over mud and some very uneven terrain. When leaving Haramara we would not even recognize the road, as it will be so dry and smooth.
Haramara is built in such a way that that the jungle still gets to rule. Casitas (little bungalows or huts) are planted here in there within the jungle. Since they have large open facades, they are placed away from each other allowing for privacy.
The Jungle at the end of the rainy season intensifies the experience of nature; thousands of colorful crabs would run off the trails as we passed by, flying creators that looked like they came right out of Star Wars would hover in front of me, sending me telepathic messages, neon green grasshoppers resting by my mat, amazing butterflies accompanying me through my walks, and the sounds of fantastic singing birds filling the air as we meditated.
Haramara is built on the mountain slope with the yoga pavilion sitting high up overlooking the jungle and ocean, the beach, dramatic and powerful, with beautiful rocks, and expressive waves.
We started every morning at 7am, dark outside with a weaning moon. Candles lit the pavilion as meditated. During our practice the rising light began to shine and reveal the beauty of the jungle and ocean. Do the trees care if it is dark outside?
Longer yoga practices on retreats are such a delight. I find the 100 minute classes work so much better for me that 90. I could even be greedy and ask for 105.
I surrendered some of my control to Lauren that taught some classes and Kristen that offered us luscious Thai Yoga Massage sessions. It felt good to be a student while a teacher.
The dining room like all the structures combined natural elements with a clean design and a local feel. A large palm leaf roof covered the dining area; a wooden and marble floor support the tables made of wood and leather. Kerosene lamps lit everywhere as the sun was setting between the palm trees over the ocean.
Specialty tortilla chips and jicama juliennes were tools to lift amazing dips. Every night a different bright color would arrive. At first I heard ketchup and mustard from some guests, but soon we found out that it was beets and carrots. The food was creative and delicious, and the best part of it all was getting to know the people. It is such a unique way to learn about different people, their life and heritage, their views and stories. Before long we have created our own stories and toward the end of the week we have had our own past and inside jokes.
The week went by very quickly, leaving a paradise behind, a feeling of love and bliss from the practices and new found friends, bringing a better us to share with the world.
Showing posts with label yoga. Show all posts
Showing posts with label yoga. Show all posts
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Karma, Don’t worry about it.
Karma is a Sanskrit word that means action, or deed. It is mostly used to describe the seed of the cycle of cause and effect. Originating in ancient India, and treated in Hindu, Jain, Sikh and Buddhist philosophies. In these systems the effects of all deeds are viewed as actively shaping past, present, and future experiences.
In the west we can think of it as “what goes around comes around.”
Who is it that keeps score of Karma, and how is the payback made?
In order to realize karma, we need to all agree on what is Good or Bad. Or else, how would it be determined what I am getting in return?
Karma today is used so often, that at times I am horrified. A yoga student was injured quite seriously and was told by their teacher that it is a good thing since they are clearing their bad karma. A spiritual teacher told one of his students that they deserve their illness, since it is part of their cleansing. Signs at a yoga studio warn against stealing, since it is bad karma. Hmmm…
Karma, or the result of the action is not necessarily linked directly to the action itself but more so to the intention of the action. That is why thoughts and words are just like actions. One can hurt or help another just by a thought, a smile, or gossip.
When acting, thinking or wishing, we are living our karma. It should not even matter if karma really exists or not. The act of compassion of doing “ the right thing” is done because inherently, deep inside, beyond any mask of conditioning, we KNOW what is the right thing to do (or think) and we need to act out of that clear instinctive place. Not out of a momentary cloud of anger or emotion, but out of that clear reflection of what is, and how we can be of most support to any situation, being or thing.
Today Karma is used often as a motivation by reward / punishment approach, similarly to how other religions use heaven and hell. In a way it is looking to create good while using fear. Yet fear can easily fall under the category of bad energy, and as it is our intention that makes the difference, it is better to find a way to act from a place of positive energy; finding joy in solving a problem, in being of service for another, in sharing love beyond borders and normal standards.
The core of the spiritual practice is that subtle discernment of what is beneficial to self and others, and what is not; the action of compassion, sharing and accepting.
So how then, does one cultivate the ability to act from a sense of care, rightness, and ethics - without being motivated by reward or threat (of heaven or hell, good karma or bad, police, laws, shame, fear etc.)?
It is a natural thing for humans to seek joy, to want to be in the place where the unpleasant instances do not lead to suffering. When we act from a place of intuition, of compassion and generosity towards everything else (our bodies included), we then can be in a place of constant joy, where we let go of the roller coaster of happiness and sorrow, and can live in a state of bliss, even while sitting on the dentist’s chair.
It is helpful to notice when desire or craving (or promise of reward) drive my action, to recognize the desire to control karma as the root of suffering. Notice the motivation, do you, at the most subtle level, expect something in return?
In order to take decisions from a place of intuition and clarity, we need to be fully present to what is, to see reality without the filters of our minds, without projections.
Bottom line: Karma, don’t worry about it! Just do your best without calculations.
Inspired by a meeting with Mary at my Dharma Share, by Osho’s writings and living life.
In the west we can think of it as “what goes around comes around.”
Who is it that keeps score of Karma, and how is the payback made?
- Some say it is God that decides, and that he/she is very fair, we get what we deserve. The Christian concept of reaping what you sow can be considered equivalent to Karma.
- Others say that there is the Law of Karma (maybe referring to nature?). Most laws of nature have scientific research that “guarantees” their results. So far no one has made karma scientific, and it seems that mostly people “hope” for the result that would come from their actions. (Look at many of the most remembered names in history- Alexander the great, Hitler, Napoleon…)
- I tend to look at karma as more of an individual functioning. Like the Isvara (the god within us), that mostly gives us immediate results. In most cases when I act according to what I consider good, I feel satisfied and happy. A sense of joy comes to me just by thinking of what I can share with others. When I am angry, acting out of control, when I am jealous or greedy, I mostly feel frustrated. When looking back, I find shame, a sense of guilt or dissatisfaction.
In order to realize karma, we need to all agree on what is Good or Bad. Or else, how would it be determined what I am getting in return?
Karma today is used so often, that at times I am horrified. A yoga student was injured quite seriously and was told by their teacher that it is a good thing since they are clearing their bad karma. A spiritual teacher told one of his students that they deserve their illness, since it is part of their cleansing. Signs at a yoga studio warn against stealing, since it is bad karma. Hmmm…
Karma, or the result of the action is not necessarily linked directly to the action itself but more so to the intention of the action. That is why thoughts and words are just like actions. One can hurt or help another just by a thought, a smile, or gossip.
When acting, thinking or wishing, we are living our karma. It should not even matter if karma really exists or not. The act of compassion of doing “ the right thing” is done because inherently, deep inside, beyond any mask of conditioning, we KNOW what is the right thing to do (or think) and we need to act out of that clear instinctive place. Not out of a momentary cloud of anger or emotion, but out of that clear reflection of what is, and how we can be of most support to any situation, being or thing.
Today Karma is used often as a motivation by reward / punishment approach, similarly to how other religions use heaven and hell. In a way it is looking to create good while using fear. Yet fear can easily fall under the category of bad energy, and as it is our intention that makes the difference, it is better to find a way to act from a place of positive energy; finding joy in solving a problem, in being of service for another, in sharing love beyond borders and normal standards.
The core of the spiritual practice is that subtle discernment of what is beneficial to self and others, and what is not; the action of compassion, sharing and accepting.
So how then, does one cultivate the ability to act from a sense of care, rightness, and ethics - without being motivated by reward or threat (of heaven or hell, good karma or bad, police, laws, shame, fear etc.)?
It is a natural thing for humans to seek joy, to want to be in the place where the unpleasant instances do not lead to suffering. When we act from a place of intuition, of compassion and generosity towards everything else (our bodies included), we then can be in a place of constant joy, where we let go of the roller coaster of happiness and sorrow, and can live in a state of bliss, even while sitting on the dentist’s chair.
It is helpful to notice when desire or craving (or promise of reward) drive my action, to recognize the desire to control karma as the root of suffering. Notice the motivation, do you, at the most subtle level, expect something in return?
In order to take decisions from a place of intuition and clarity, we need to be fully present to what is, to see reality without the filters of our minds, without projections.
Bottom line: Karma, don’t worry about it! Just do your best without calculations.
Inspired by a meeting with Mary at my Dharma Share, by Osho’s writings and living life.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Palo Alto Yoga and Life
Sunday was my first day of teaching Ashtanga Mysore style here in Palo Alto. I am enjoying my new life greatly. Early morning wake ups with a practice that leads to teaching a class. Some other classes through the day, like the class of the young mommy’s, lots of cooking, reading and studying further in the realm of yoga, nutrition and blissful living.
I just returned from a long walk around the neighborhood. Private homes with many different styles, some look more Mexican influenced, some Euro country, some modern and others the classic American. In common they have well maintained gardens. Whatever style, the clean front lawn or the more hidden garden with paths and trees, the slightly Asian with Japanese maples or a little fountain, I am blessed to enjoy all of these as I stroll in the mostly empty streets with only the occasional father jogging after his little daughter riding a pink bicycle.
My home is a back house of another old house, simple, with beautiful wooden floors, a large kitchen, my own bedroom and living room. I feel rich having all this for myself. No roommate, no neighbors bellow or above, what more could I ask for?
Sometimes I wonder how people end up anywhere but NY or SF, or maybe Paris…and I smile when I think of the sequence of events that led me here. A brother in a random place like Menlo Park helps, a yoga practice, some residency...
I am grateful for Heleen and Adarsh that allowed me this opportunity, for the Yoga students that allow me to teach, and for the sun that is one more cause for all this blossom around.
I just returned from a long walk around the neighborhood. Private homes with many different styles, some look more Mexican influenced, some Euro country, some modern and others the classic American. In common they have well maintained gardens. Whatever style, the clean front lawn or the more hidden garden with paths and trees, the slightly Asian with Japanese maples or a little fountain, I am blessed to enjoy all of these as I stroll in the mostly empty streets with only the occasional father jogging after his little daughter riding a pink bicycle.
My home is a back house of another old house, simple, with beautiful wooden floors, a large kitchen, my own bedroom and living room. I feel rich having all this for myself. No roommate, no neighbors bellow or above, what more could I ask for?
Sometimes I wonder how people end up anywhere but NY or SF, or maybe Paris…and I smile when I think of the sequence of events that led me here. A brother in a random place like Menlo Park helps, a yoga practice, some residency...
I am grateful for Heleen and Adarsh that allowed me this opportunity, for the Yoga students that allow me to teach, and for the sun that is one more cause for all this blossom around.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Yoga as Grace
Practicing Yoga is a path to help us become more aware, to discover bliss at all times and realize. Realize who we really are.
Embracing our selves now, for who we are with no expectations of achievement, we can practice a graceful and joyful Yoga; a union with our mind and body in a clam state and an even flow of breath and movement.
Along the path we have many opportunities to practice and express our awareness. It starts with out behavior and attitude. “How was your practice?” the ultimate question after one leaves the shala in Mysore, India. Standing out side, sipping on a coconut I heard one yogini tell the other: “Every morning the girl next to me rolls over to my mat in Dhanurasana B and it really disrupts my flow.”
Sharing mat space, the class is surely over crowded, and extra awareness is needed, to be not only in ones own practice but also to see the surroundings. Of course a just argument can be held for each practitioner; “no room, what else to do?” Or “well I don’t know, but don’t put your sweat on my mat”. In any case, practicing for the sake of practice, for the sake of cultivating awareness and a sensation of bliss, one learns to cultivate compassion and receives great benefits and joy from seeing others be happy.
As I sit and let the class get ready here at Esalen, I hear a loud sound of a mat hitting the floor. It is not uncommon to see one toss their mat down, or kick it to roll it open. Whatever method one chooses, it is of great practice to do it consciously and with respect. Finding respect and care to all things, from the mat to the clothes we wear, from the food to the toilet, all have an important roll in our life, help us and are at our service. Practicing gratitude to all things helps bring a state of bliss on a daily basis.
We can practice this awareness as we do our Asana as well.
Through our breath, our Dristi (yogic gaze) and the grace of our movement.
Once our movement becomes too harsh, out of rhythm and either rapid or sluggish, we need to stop and refocus. While in a pose we can breathe and have a sense of joy even in difficult physical positions. Moving gracefully, like in a dance, steady, smooth movement without jerking, and a flow of energy that sips out of the lips as they stretch towards the ears.
Our intention in Yoga, in creating a union for our bodies and mind, allowing a merge, surrender to what is, however it is, creates space, space where the splendid unknown can appear and bring with it bliss, the bliss of unity. When there is no two, when there is no one, there is grace, a flow, a completeness, nothing lacking.
Yoga as grace is he ultimate practice of awareness and compassion, a surrender to the forces around us that are a part of the energy within us.
May we practice with gratitude and delight.
Embracing our selves now, for who we are with no expectations of achievement, we can practice a graceful and joyful Yoga; a union with our mind and body in a clam state and an even flow of breath and movement.
Along the path we have many opportunities to practice and express our awareness. It starts with out behavior and attitude. “How was your practice?” the ultimate question after one leaves the shala in Mysore, India. Standing out side, sipping on a coconut I heard one yogini tell the other: “Every morning the girl next to me rolls over to my mat in Dhanurasana B and it really disrupts my flow.”
Sharing mat space, the class is surely over crowded, and extra awareness is needed, to be not only in ones own practice but also to see the surroundings. Of course a just argument can be held for each practitioner; “no room, what else to do?” Or “well I don’t know, but don’t put your sweat on my mat”. In any case, practicing for the sake of practice, for the sake of cultivating awareness and a sensation of bliss, one learns to cultivate compassion and receives great benefits and joy from seeing others be happy.
As I sit and let the class get ready here at Esalen, I hear a loud sound of a mat hitting the floor. It is not uncommon to see one toss their mat down, or kick it to roll it open. Whatever method one chooses, it is of great practice to do it consciously and with respect. Finding respect and care to all things, from the mat to the clothes we wear, from the food to the toilet, all have an important roll in our life, help us and are at our service. Practicing gratitude to all things helps bring a state of bliss on a daily basis.
We can practice this awareness as we do our Asana as well.
Through our breath, our Dristi (yogic gaze) and the grace of our movement.
Once our movement becomes too harsh, out of rhythm and either rapid or sluggish, we need to stop and refocus. While in a pose we can breathe and have a sense of joy even in difficult physical positions. Moving gracefully, like in a dance, steady, smooth movement without jerking, and a flow of energy that sips out of the lips as they stretch towards the ears.
Our intention in Yoga, in creating a union for our bodies and mind, allowing a merge, surrender to what is, however it is, creates space, space where the splendid unknown can appear and bring with it bliss, the bliss of unity. When there is no two, when there is no one, there is grace, a flow, a completeness, nothing lacking.
Yoga as grace is he ultimate practice of awareness and compassion, a surrender to the forces around us that are a part of the energy within us.
May we practice with gratitude and delight.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
The gift of NY - the people
Front row of economy class, sitting with extra leg room in a metal tube, flying west.
Walking the streets and avenues of the city I know so well, observing the people, the greatest gift of NY; such a marvel of demographics, of color and accents. I watch as the moda of the 80’s creeps as zippers on jackets, as scarves, big necklaces and sunglasses adorn skin and clothes, adding accents, color, and design to already somewhat bright colors.
Leggings are everywhere, covered by tight super short skirts or dresses, like a stretched long T-shirt, paired with a pair of boots that either fold down as an accordion without sound, or have an extra long flashy zipper from bottom to top, like a seem on a hosiery on the back of the leg
Seems like so many have a fashion statement of a sort. Most women are wearing boots and heels, leaving me a sense of joy and glory at the beauty of the legs. Being a teenage in the 80’s I cannot help but be nostalgic. I admit it looks much sexier at my age and without adding the 80’s hairdo much prettier.
Like my artwork, like my life, this trip unfolded as an exploration of body and mind.
Silence and concentration as a young handsome man does a one-hand handstand on a little pole, splitting his legs apart, to the joy of the crowd. He wears little and white, exposing skin that is being stretched by muscle work and veins.
A hula-hoop master feels like Betty Boop, and a blond and a brunette fly up high in the open space of the striped blue and yellow tent flexing hips and extending legs, flying in coordination. The beautiful tan long legged brunette hanging off the bent leg of the petite blond. Living life to its fullest, flying with no security net.
Desir, a show at south street seaport hosts an exposition of body possibilities. Physic and concentration make this a Cirque de soleil wanna be.
Saturday at the Zen temple, sitting silently doing nothing. Breathing happens. Feels like home, so many familiar faces. Sharing lunch, I meet smiling faces that were in residence with me either at the temple or the monastery. The still body, the tired body from not sleeping much, the joyful mind, the space, the…
Halloween night (yes, this is not in order…) is a night of covering up, of new identity, a night to wear another layer of masks, to make believe, to bring desires to life, or hide. A night to allow one to be free from social codes, or is it?
As Lisa says: “A time to let what needs to die –die, and a chance to recreate that which has died and needs a rebirth.”
No masks for me, just a layer of urban elegance to cover up, as I join Tamar for a quiet night at BLT fish, a beautiful gourmet fish restaurant. Outside the remaining of the parade is still walking around, 5th avenue moves slowly. The Tuna tartar arrives on ice, with home made chips. Good touch of lemon. My swordfish was marinated in curry and then topped of with salsa, light with hint of spice, leaving the swordfish to still have presence. We sit at a corner table right by the open kitchen.
The wine is smooth, red, with fruit and a medium body. Enough to leave legs on the glass, but light enough to match the fish. “Should we drink White” Tamar asked.
I realize I have no more “shoulds” in life. Only being honest and sincere with what feels right. And red felt right in the cold NY eve.
The cab ride home flowed slowly through the busy east village, where the land of dress up seemed to be most at play. At this hour it was like a wax museum of humans standing at the curbs, freezing…waiting.
I could not help but notice that most female costumes, no matter what they were, were very sexy and seductive. Nurses with tiny little white outfits and large red crosses, super woman in a super short mini skirt, cats and cat women, being more like sex kitties, angels, fire women, sexy devils…or is it just my perception?
I smiled, enjoyed and watched, like swimming in a moving yellow aquarium with windows. Noticing how at every red light, people intoxicated leaning, falling, fighting for the impossible cab.
Being in NY as a visitor has such beauty and freedom. Apart from dropping off an art piece at a gallery in the lower east side for a show in December, all else was open. I realized that my favorite things to do are wonder the streets, watch people and flirt with some fashion stores, taste new flavors, do Yoga and see a few friends. Only what time allows. Staying with Jen in Carol Gardens opened a whole new flavor of NY to me. The larger homes and smaller buildings, the trees and little gardens, the sidewalks that have room to walk, and invite a slower pace.
Brooklyn is rich in many little moms and pops shops and restaurants, a delight of creativity, a feeling of a neighborhood and friendships.
I went to a variety of Yoga studios n the City. All ones I’ve never practiced at before. I attended Kirtan at Jivamhukti and Dharma Mitra Yoga, but have not practiced Asana there.
It was a delight to taste new flavors, Practice with new teachers, and reaffirm that the way I teach feels right for me, and is surely my way. A unique way, that stands on the shoulders of my teachers. Inspired by many great, and synthesized into a truth that flows through me, like many rivers into an ocean, where the drops no longer belong to anyone.
I practiced at Eddie Stern’s studio in the Soho, and got to see some friends from NY and from Mysore, India. The Ashtanga community is a small one, where a similar face always appears.
Yoga Sutra, on 5th and 42nd, across from the NY public library, and half a block form my old office at Tahari, is a whole floor of 3 yoga studios. It is sweet to see how NY is now floured with Yoga on every corner, the need to balance the work life with some peace.
I must say though, that most classes I’ve taken have felt to me as creating more Vata imbalance
(Vata being the air and space element, the movement aspect in Ayurveda), strong classes for A type people, Lots of distraction, music, words, fast pace…I always leave a Yoga class feeling good because of the body work, but only sometimes do I leave levitating thanks to a graceful teacher allowing space for grounding, for connecting with the breath, permitting surrender and letting go.
Wearing my new black hoody with extra silver zippers cutting the cotton in an angle, I leave NY. I feel gratitude for the entire people roaming this city. For all those that shared moments with me (even if I have not mentioned their names here), for the generosity of my host, and for random encounters that make NY such a fabulous place.
Walking the streets and avenues of the city I know so well, observing the people, the greatest gift of NY; such a marvel of demographics, of color and accents. I watch as the moda of the 80’s creeps as zippers on jackets, as scarves, big necklaces and sunglasses adorn skin and clothes, adding accents, color, and design to already somewhat bright colors.
Leggings are everywhere, covered by tight super short skirts or dresses, like a stretched long T-shirt, paired with a pair of boots that either fold down as an accordion without sound, or have an extra long flashy zipper from bottom to top, like a seem on a hosiery on the back of the leg
Seems like so many have a fashion statement of a sort. Most women are wearing boots and heels, leaving me a sense of joy and glory at the beauty of the legs. Being a teenage in the 80’s I cannot help but be nostalgic. I admit it looks much sexier at my age and without adding the 80’s hairdo much prettier.
Like my artwork, like my life, this trip unfolded as an exploration of body and mind.
Silence and concentration as a young handsome man does a one-hand handstand on a little pole, splitting his legs apart, to the joy of the crowd. He wears little and white, exposing skin that is being stretched by muscle work and veins.
A hula-hoop master feels like Betty Boop, and a blond and a brunette fly up high in the open space of the striped blue and yellow tent flexing hips and extending legs, flying in coordination. The beautiful tan long legged brunette hanging off the bent leg of the petite blond. Living life to its fullest, flying with no security net.
Desir, a show at south street seaport hosts an exposition of body possibilities. Physic and concentration make this a Cirque de soleil wanna be.
Saturday at the Zen temple, sitting silently doing nothing. Breathing happens. Feels like home, so many familiar faces. Sharing lunch, I meet smiling faces that were in residence with me either at the temple or the monastery. The still body, the tired body from not sleeping much, the joyful mind, the space, the…
Halloween night (yes, this is not in order…) is a night of covering up, of new identity, a night to wear another layer of masks, to make believe, to bring desires to life, or hide. A night to allow one to be free from social codes, or is it?
As Lisa says: “A time to let what needs to die –die, and a chance to recreate that which has died and needs a rebirth.”
No masks for me, just a layer of urban elegance to cover up, as I join Tamar for a quiet night at BLT fish, a beautiful gourmet fish restaurant. Outside the remaining of the parade is still walking around, 5th avenue moves slowly. The Tuna tartar arrives on ice, with home made chips. Good touch of lemon. My swordfish was marinated in curry and then topped of with salsa, light with hint of spice, leaving the swordfish to still have presence. We sit at a corner table right by the open kitchen.
The wine is smooth, red, with fruit and a medium body. Enough to leave legs on the glass, but light enough to match the fish. “Should we drink White” Tamar asked.
I realize I have no more “shoulds” in life. Only being honest and sincere with what feels right. And red felt right in the cold NY eve.
The cab ride home flowed slowly through the busy east village, where the land of dress up seemed to be most at play. At this hour it was like a wax museum of humans standing at the curbs, freezing…waiting.
I could not help but notice that most female costumes, no matter what they were, were very sexy and seductive. Nurses with tiny little white outfits and large red crosses, super woman in a super short mini skirt, cats and cat women, being more like sex kitties, angels, fire women, sexy devils…or is it just my perception?
I smiled, enjoyed and watched, like swimming in a moving yellow aquarium with windows. Noticing how at every red light, people intoxicated leaning, falling, fighting for the impossible cab.
Being in NY as a visitor has such beauty and freedom. Apart from dropping off an art piece at a gallery in the lower east side for a show in December, all else was open. I realized that my favorite things to do are wonder the streets, watch people and flirt with some fashion stores, taste new flavors, do Yoga and see a few friends. Only what time allows. Staying with Jen in Carol Gardens opened a whole new flavor of NY to me. The larger homes and smaller buildings, the trees and little gardens, the sidewalks that have room to walk, and invite a slower pace.
Brooklyn is rich in many little moms and pops shops and restaurants, a delight of creativity, a feeling of a neighborhood and friendships.
I went to a variety of Yoga studios n the City. All ones I’ve never practiced at before. I attended Kirtan at Jivamhukti and Dharma Mitra Yoga, but have not practiced Asana there.
It was a delight to taste new flavors, Practice with new teachers, and reaffirm that the way I teach feels right for me, and is surely my way. A unique way, that stands on the shoulders of my teachers. Inspired by many great, and synthesized into a truth that flows through me, like many rivers into an ocean, where the drops no longer belong to anyone.
I practiced at Eddie Stern’s studio in the Soho, and got to see some friends from NY and from Mysore, India. The Ashtanga community is a small one, where a similar face always appears.
Yoga Sutra, on 5th and 42nd, across from the NY public library, and half a block form my old office at Tahari, is a whole floor of 3 yoga studios. It is sweet to see how NY is now floured with Yoga on every corner, the need to balance the work life with some peace.
I must say though, that most classes I’ve taken have felt to me as creating more Vata imbalance
(Vata being the air and space element, the movement aspect in Ayurveda), strong classes for A type people, Lots of distraction, music, words, fast pace…I always leave a Yoga class feeling good because of the body work, but only sometimes do I leave levitating thanks to a graceful teacher allowing space for grounding, for connecting with the breath, permitting surrender and letting go.
Wearing my new black hoody with extra silver zippers cutting the cotton in an angle, I leave NY. I feel gratitude for the entire people roaming this city. For all those that shared moments with me (even if I have not mentioned their names here), for the generosity of my host, and for random encounters that make NY such a fabulous place.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Blissful Living
A few new tasks came to life in the past few weeks.
Doing some cleanup, either posting camera equipment on eBay or finding people to give clothes and art to. Updating my computer skills and software, learning Aperture, Bridge and Dreamweaver. Getting ready to bring my stock photography back to life.
Working on the detailed sessions of my “Photography beyond the eye” workshop, as well as now, creating a web page for two Yoga workshops I will lead at Esalen this fall. The art of sustainable living though Yoga and Nutrition
At ESALEN OCT 24-26
So yes, I am still here at Esalen. Cooking in the kitchen is wonderful. I have been in charge of the salad bar, both hot and cold, and also training as a chef here. It is wonderful to have opportunity for so much creativity while nourishing over 300 people. The kitchen has been very supportive, and I thank all those that are constantly willing to share with me.
My mom Sara was here at Esalen in August, “a little paradise” she kept saying. She soaked in the baths, went for walks, did her Soduko, read and went swimming.
Seeing her swim on a few foggy days inspired me, and I have been moving through water much more since. Toda Ima!
Last night I soaked in the baths for an hour, gazing at the sun as it set between Japanese like painted clouds, then went up to the lodge to pick up a nice plate of Vietnamese noodles with spring rolls. It’s hard to have all the yummy options around, especially since I’ve been eating mostly raw recently. Esalen has a lot of healthy, fresh organic choices, but surely has lots of meat and dairy options as well.
I have met so many fantastic new people here, while still feeling all the fabulous encounters from India and all my life long friendships. Keeping all close to heart. Sorry if not all get emails and constant contact as I am blessed with so much love, and even as a type A Gemini, I find it hard to keep up.
I sleep in a loft bed where there is enough room for a little computer area at floor level, books, and meditation space. Above my bed (nice mattresses on the carpet) is a big skylight. The moon appeared very round and bright the past few nights, so I got to sleep with its soft cool light flooding in. when it slims down, the stars appear bright, and I go to sleep smiling, remembering how tiny I am in this grand universe, and how huge when thinking of millions of probiotics in a little capsule.
I plan a short visit to New York At the end of October. Get some city flavor after all the nature at Esalen…This trip is much thanks to Jen deciding that I need to come and cook for her…
Love you all!
Doing some cleanup, either posting camera equipment on eBay or finding people to give clothes and art to. Updating my computer skills and software, learning Aperture, Bridge and Dreamweaver. Getting ready to bring my stock photography back to life.
Working on the detailed sessions of my “Photography beyond the eye” workshop, as well as now, creating a web page for two Yoga workshops I will lead at Esalen this fall. The art of sustainable living though Yoga and Nutrition
At ESALEN OCT 24-26
So yes, I am still here at Esalen. Cooking in the kitchen is wonderful. I have been in charge of the salad bar, both hot and cold, and also training as a chef here. It is wonderful to have opportunity for so much creativity while nourishing over 300 people. The kitchen has been very supportive, and I thank all those that are constantly willing to share with me.
My mom Sara was here at Esalen in August, “a little paradise” she kept saying. She soaked in the baths, went for walks, did her Soduko, read and went swimming.
Seeing her swim on a few foggy days inspired me, and I have been moving through water much more since. Toda Ima!
Last night I soaked in the baths for an hour, gazing at the sun as it set between Japanese like painted clouds, then went up to the lodge to pick up a nice plate of Vietnamese noodles with spring rolls. It’s hard to have all the yummy options around, especially since I’ve been eating mostly raw recently. Esalen has a lot of healthy, fresh organic choices, but surely has lots of meat and dairy options as well.
I have met so many fantastic new people here, while still feeling all the fabulous encounters from India and all my life long friendships. Keeping all close to heart. Sorry if not all get emails and constant contact as I am blessed with so much love, and even as a type A Gemini, I find it hard to keep up.
I sleep in a loft bed where there is enough room for a little computer area at floor level, books, and meditation space. Above my bed (nice mattresses on the carpet) is a big skylight. The moon appeared very round and bright the past few nights, so I got to sleep with its soft cool light flooding in. when it slims down, the stars appear bright, and I go to sleep smiling, remembering how tiny I am in this grand universe, and how huge when thinking of millions of probiotics in a little capsule.
I plan a short visit to New York At the end of October. Get some city flavor after all the nature at Esalen…This trip is much thanks to Jen deciding that I need to come and cook for her…
Love you all!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Yoga with Richard Freeman
June 8th, Sunday morning, my birthday, sitting at the Yoga Workshop, Richards’s shala (practice room). The simple room, one large space is full of new faces sitting on Yoga mats awaiting the beginning of this month long teacher intensive.
Mary, Richard’s wife, gives a briefing on this coming month and before we know it Richard walks in. The room fills with a feeling of something great that just happened. Richard enters, great and simple, starts without too much talking.
Our mornings, which consist of some Asana (poses) practice, learning about alignment, adjustments, breathe and gaze, are followed by chanting and philosophy.
In the afternoons I take a Mysore style class, optional to the program.
The group is very international. Students from Greater China, Japan, Europe, NY, CA, Mexico, Canada and locals from boulder all unified with a set sequence of poses practiced daily around the globe. (The Ashtanga sequence)
Richard, calmly sits on his cushion, with clear eyes, guides us through the
Sanskrit pronunciation. Richard seems to have child like qualities, of love and excitement toward the little details.
Yesterday afternoon we walked over to the Shamabhala center to practice meditation.
I manage to walk everywhere here, such a wonderful feeling. Just take Pearl Street down one direction, and you hit a beautiful promenade, of downtown Boulder. The other direction will take you to a big shopping area including Whole Foods and the Mac store.
Walking along perfect sidewalks with green patches, brooks follow aside or cross under, and the Flat Irons, the famous Boulder Mountains rise up with pride, and together with the dramatic sky, frame the small population of Boulder (100,000 or so). A population that seems healthy and active for the most part. A very outdoorsy feeling, a college town, a town of yoga, massage, Rolfing, meditation and centers and Universities of alternative lifestyles.
I continue my tradition of constant summer that has been flowing through my life for over a year now. Here, the sun shines most of the time. Occasional winds or some threat of rain appear, but in general, it’s dry and beautiful, and my tan is still chocolaty or olive skin (is it really olive? Where does that come from?).
Happy to be here, to keep on studying and living life to it’s fullest. New ideas for workshops arise, and I hope to present them soon.
Mary, Richard’s wife, gives a briefing on this coming month and before we know it Richard walks in. The room fills with a feeling of something great that just happened. Richard enters, great and simple, starts without too much talking.
Our mornings, which consist of some Asana (poses) practice, learning about alignment, adjustments, breathe and gaze, are followed by chanting and philosophy.
In the afternoons I take a Mysore style class, optional to the program.
The group is very international. Students from Greater China, Japan, Europe, NY, CA, Mexico, Canada and locals from boulder all unified with a set sequence of poses practiced daily around the globe. (The Ashtanga sequence)
Richard, calmly sits on his cushion, with clear eyes, guides us through the
Sanskrit pronunciation. Richard seems to have child like qualities, of love and excitement toward the little details.
Yesterday afternoon we walked over to the Shamabhala center to practice meditation.
I manage to walk everywhere here, such a wonderful feeling. Just take Pearl Street down one direction, and you hit a beautiful promenade, of downtown Boulder. The other direction will take you to a big shopping area including Whole Foods and the Mac store.
Walking along perfect sidewalks with green patches, brooks follow aside or cross under, and the Flat Irons, the famous Boulder Mountains rise up with pride, and together with the dramatic sky, frame the small population of Boulder (100,000 or so). A population that seems healthy and active for the most part. A very outdoorsy feeling, a college town, a town of yoga, massage, Rolfing, meditation and centers and Universities of alternative lifestyles.
I continue my tradition of constant summer that has been flowing through my life for over a year now. Here, the sun shines most of the time. Occasional winds or some threat of rain appear, but in general, it’s dry and beautiful, and my tan is still chocolaty or olive skin (is it really olive? Where does that come from?).
Happy to be here, to keep on studying and living life to it’s fullest. New ideas for workshops arise, and I hope to present them soon.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)