Savor The Now
I never thought that the “NOW” had a flavor until I met Aga – a Japanese student of mine who graduated from the first Yogea Teacher Training Program in May of 2011. Aga is the kind of person who sits quietly in the corner, doesn’t interfere in conversations, speaks very little, but somehow knows how to ride the present in a very elegant and meaningful way. Her wisdom comes from being mindful every moment, without trying to comprehend the underlying reason for every occurrence. I’ve always marveled her seamless quality of an impartial and compassionate witness and her strong but unimposing presence in class.
Years of teaching in her aura has helped me access intuitive ways of understanding and switch to a simpler vocabulary in conveying intellectual knowledge and spiritual wisdom. Observing Aga’s meditative radiance in class and her natural gift to embrace the present moment without judgment or doubt, but in full acceptance and reverence has led me sit effortlessly in my meditation practice. I had previously struggled with bubbling thoughts during meditation, always trying to suspend the mind. Aga showed me the simpler way of regarding meditation as an act of offering our genuine presence to ourselves in every moment, silently reminding us that peace is every breath. It is a Zen capacity to recognize sincerely that every moment is a gift and a link in the chain of life lessons.
Aga has also led me to see that “less is more” and that the most profound experiences in life are the ones that require the least discerning or action, but rather make you aware that you are part of an ever-recurrent cosmic flow. Together we have practiced dissolving all our tensions into the ebb and flow of breath and mindful movement, and restoring the freshness of our human perspective, which is different every day. Zen Yoga hints that we are already what we want to become, that by cultivating compassion, equanimity and loving-kindness we can become active listeners, rather than passive doers. As we sit and listen without reacting or judging we can hear what’s being said, and also what’s been unsaid. It is in the absence of presence that we create freedom to grow, freedom to heal. This freedom feeds on “interbeing” and interdependent co-arising, which in turn, hones our ability to transform all negativity into appreciation and inner peace. I know what the NOW tastes like. It’s crunchy, zesty and always FRESH. Join Aga for our Yogea fall appetizers, a blend of Asian seasoning to keep you rooted in the “Now.”
Yogea Beginner’s Balancing Routine – Savor the Now
This simple but comprehensive beginner’s Yogea routine stretches the hamstrings, calves, hip flexors and mid back while developing a strong core and optimal postural alignment. The accessible sequence includes basic yogic standing postures, forward bends, back bends, twists and semi-inversions to promote structural integration and strengthening of the different body parts. Low lunges combined with active back bends help stretch the groin muscles and hip flexors, while opening the front of the body and stimulating the thymus gland to boost immunity. Standing and sitting squats strengthen the quads, loosen up tension in the pelvic area and ensure healthy hip-joints. Standing and sitting twists flush toxins from the lower abdomen and enkindle the fire of the digestive system to melt unwanted fatty deposits. The focus of the practice is on releasing obsolete belief structures and unwanted negative build-up while grounding, centering and balancing.
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