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Namaste!
I am working with the Tibetan Buddhist concept of “emptiness.” It is difficult because it’s such a loaded word. While we can define “empty” as “without contents” there are deeper connotations that color our ability to really explore this philosophical idea. If, when asked how he is, a good friend replies, “empty” our response would probably not be, “Hey! That’s great!” We replace “without contents” with a deep, lifeless, lightless void. So to talk about the idea, we must begin with a new definition.
In The Diamond Cutter (brilliant book!), Geshe Michael Roach gives a great example to help us along. Let’s say you have been unjustly blamed for a big screw-up at home or at work. Your boss or partner reads you the riot act. In response, most of us go immediately into defensive high gear, as we have been unjustly accused by an unreasonable, raving lunatic. And now is the opportunity to set the record straight.
The Tibetan Buddhist says pause. Because that which is empty is “without contents,” it is also full of possibility. And every situation is, inherently, empty. It is our ever-changing perception that is loaded. If this partner or boss were truly an unreasonable, raving lunatic, everyone would think so, she would be that way all the time, and we probably would have nothing to do with her. And so the challenge is to begin to shift our perspective- to become the witness- and see the people, places and events that push our buttons as empty. This way, we have the choice and opportunity to fill those experiences in ways that help us expand, grow and thrive, instead of fueling our anger, our ego and the habitual tendencies that got us here in the first place.
Interesting.
Peace,
Jill
The Fiery Third Chakra: Manipura |
Chakra of Transformation
Manipura Chakra corresponds to the solar plexus and digestive system, is associated with the color yellow, and governs digestion and metabolism. As such, it’s not surprising to learn that it is also involved with the power of transformation. A balanced third chakra can help us move through sluggishness and stalling so we can take responsibility for our lives, take risks and assert our will. Through this chakra, we also experience the energy that comes from selfless service as well as the release and ease that follows a good belly laugh.
When we take risks, we reclaim our power and flex those third chakra muscles. But risk takes on a different meaning for each of us. For some it may be a personal confrontation or trying something exciting and new, for others it may be giving an opinion or taking a first private yoga lesson! Regardless of what taking a risk looks like in your life, regularly practicing the power of choice and expanding your comfort zone can be instrumental in stoking the third chakra fires.
Those whose third chakra is deficient may suffer from low self-esteem, and this can be balanced through practices that fire up the belly: think core strengthening, twists and the breath of fire. Those whose third chakra energy is in excess might experience striving for perfection, power, status and recognition, or strong feelings of anger or hatred. That is a sign of a belly that needs to be cooled, perhaps with a gentle or restorative yoga practice.
Our yoga practice is an endless source of information about our bodies, if we are willing to listen. We can use the information the body provides to respond in natural, healthy ways to create balance between energy and relaxation, and ultimately tap into our own true source of power.
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Budokon explores the Art of Living |
Take one of the first classes offered in the Triangle!
In the simplest of definitions, Budokon is a life practice that weaves together yoga, martial arts and meditation for what some have called the ultimate mind-body fitness workout. The word Budokon translates directly in Japanese as Warrior (Bu) Way (Do) Spirit (Kon), or Way of the Spiritual Warrior.
 Created in 2000 by Cameron Shayne, the practice helps students develop physical alignment, strength, agility, endurance, control, balance and flow. Classes begin with a meditation and end in savasana, but everything in between can challenge your mind and body in new movements and open you to energy levels.
Sidney Julich is one of only 80 certified Budokon instructors in the world, and blue lotus is thrilled to welcome her as she teaches two classes this month! Sidney is a born-and-bred North Carolinian and has long been a yoga practitioner. Her practice took a different turn in 2004 when she moved to Boston and began to explore Budokon with her mentor Marc McDonald. Determined to learn more about this new hybrid yoga /martial arts practice, she began intensive study with Budokon founder Cameron Shayne. In 2008, Sidney moved to Austin, Texas and spent a year training with Kajukenbo master Robert Reid. She was surprised how addicting the Martial Arts can be--who knew kicking and punching could be so fun! She loves to share her practice with others and hopes they will find it as fun, challenging and transformative as she does.
Join us for either or both of Sidney's two sessions, and register soon -- they are sure to fill quickly!
Budokon: Zen Warrior
6:30-8:00 pm, Friday, August 13
11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Saturday, August 28
This powerful practice draws upon elements of yoga and incorporates fitness and martial arts concepts to form a unique and exciting experience. The diversity of movement challenges the body to build endurance, strength and mental stamina. Perfect for yogis, martial artists and athletes at any fitness level.
Simply go to the respective dates at the online scheduler to register today!
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Karma for Kids! |
It's never too early to learn to serve
Our Summer of Service turns to the younger set this month as we offer the wee ones in our community the chance to learn more about what it means to give back.
Yoga is a great way for kids to get connected as the practice stretches and calms kids' bodies and minds and boosts their confidence. Karma Yoga for Kids also brings in the element of service by asking the kids to bring in their favorite book (or two) to be donated to a local organization. The class is free, but please register in advance.
Sunday, August 29
Kids age 3-6, 10:00-10:45 am
Kids age 7-10, 11:00-11:45 am
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July's Seva Unchains Jax |
Summer of Service continues
 The blue lotus Summer of Service continued in July as the blue crew struck out on July 25 in 102-degree temps to build a fence for Jax in Raleigh. You have never seen a happier dog than when Jax gets set free in his brand-spanking new fence, thanks to the wonderful work of the Coalition to Unchain dogs and the dedicated and generous volunteers from the blue.
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August Workshops & Events |
All your favorite specials this month!
This month we introduce a new class -- Hot Detox Flow -- and feature weekend special classes like Kriya Practice, Partner Stretch, Juicy Flow Yoga, Back Care Yoga, Deep Stretch, Prana Flow, Vinyasa Level 2/3 and more! Check the scheduler for details.
Hot Detox Flow ** New Class **
9:45-11:00 am, Tuesdays, starting August 3
Every day our bodies are exposed to toxins through the foods we eat, the air we breathe and the many social and work environments we encounter. Julie guides us to work toward balance and harmony as we move our bodies and sweat it all out! For this open level flow practice, the studio will be heated to 85 degrees. Please bring a towel and water and a desire to heat it up!
Kids Yoga, Art & Service Camp
1:30-4:30 pm, August 2-6
Kids ages 7 to 11 are invited to move with their bodies, create with their minds and serve others with their hearts during this week-long camp.
Yoga Immersion & Teacher Training Info Session
6:00-7:00 pm, Sunday, August 8
Learn more about what 9 months of transformation, the blue's Yoga Immersion & Teacher Training program is all about!  Students interested in enrolling for September 2010 to May 2011 or for the 2011-2012 session are invited to ask questions and hear recent graduates share their amazing experiences. Check out the Teacher Training tab at the blue lotus website or the online FAQ, or contact us at info@bluelotusnc.com or 919.831.2583.
Yin Yoga Intensive
12:30-2:30 pm, Saturday, August 14
Yin yoga is the perfect complement and balance to our more active "yang" lifestyle. You’ll explore new depths in postures, deeper ranges of motion and increased flow of energy with a focus on the deeper tissues of the body.
Family Yoga *by donation*
2:30-3:30 pm, Saturday, August 21
This class is a great way to spend weekend time with your kids! Bring the whole family to the blue for a fun and relaxing hour of yoga. This class is for anyone in your family, ages 6-106! No previous experience required. The class is by donation, and your contribution will be given to the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation.
Yoga for Kids Series in September
Tuesdays, September 7 - November 9
Ages 3-5, 1:00-2:00 pm
Ages 5-9, 4:00-5:00 pm
Kids make the perfect little yogis! And it is never too early to start. They benefit in so many ways -- learning to relax, gaining confidence, improving strength and flexibility, and understanding the power of their breath to help them when they feel sad, mad or scared. This 10-week series explores yoga in a fun and engaging way created just for kids.
FREE Community Classes
Please be sure to pre-register online for these free classes. Space is limited, and classes are often full.
12:30-1:30 pm, Saturday, August 7
6:00-7:00 pm, Sunday August 15
12:00-1:00 pm, Friday, Aug 27
Visit the scheduler at the Classes and Workshops tabs for the complete blue lotus schedule and to register.
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