To leave thoughts behind and make one’s way to enlightenment, one must keep the mind occupied with the constant repetition of Om or mantra chanting. Of course, the vibrations of chanting with complete awareness must fill the body. I must have a super stubborn mind. Despite the repetitive mantras and mudras and pranayamas that are done at the same time, I am still able to lose focus. within the first 10 minutes, my back begins to ache. After another 5 mins, my left leg is completely numb. We’re supposed to stay completely motionless but here I am trying to free my leg cause I don’t want gangrene! :). It’s still very dark, very early in the morning. Every morning, afternoon and night, we chant and meditate. Chanting ‘Om’ at a faster pace is new to me and a bit of a challenge to my throat and jaw but it’s these other long ass mantras that are driving me nuts!
Had to chant the following mantra to the entire group. It wasn’t as bad as the first time I had to do this in 2011. Since I have had a cold for a couple days, I sounded sexy! 😉
Had to chant the following mantra to the entire group. It wasn’t as bad as the first time I had to do this in 2011. Since I have had a cold for a couple days, I sounded sexy! 😉
Study material.
For the evening practice, the teacher, Saji, asked people to come into headstand but not many were holding it. After 4 minutes of variating it just ’cause I can :), (with twist, wide legged, lotus…) he was telling me to spread the fingers, lift the head and bend the legs while he supported my balance from the knees. I was brought into my favourite pose, vrischikasana, the scorpion! Absolutely love this pose and will try to find someone to take a pic and post it.
There’s a ceremony involving lights at the temple tonight, so we’re required to dress appropriately and there won’t be any practice…
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I think its normal to lose concentration even before 10 mins – unless a person does have 'enlightenment'. the trick is to be instantly aware you are straying and get back – read that in `The power of Now' and with practice getting back will be quicker. Your poses sound painful to me. mom
Now now that we're cleansed, the 'fun' begins. This morning's Hatha was already quite the challenge, but Saji is pretty good, reminding us to take it one step at a time.
ohhh wow that's awesome and you did all that was requiered of u, btw I was talking about body cleaning, that's awesome all natural not all this stupid garbage we subject ourselves to. I am pretty sure you will find your focus through meditation. I find meditation the most challenging due to all those craziness running through my mind. Since I start to practice Yoga I am able to focus for few seconds at the time. Enjoy your time and keep in touch. Thank u for taking time to share your experiences, allowing us to be part of your experiences…..Liliana
looks like diwali – mom
Not a problem, liliana. Thank you for taking the time to read and comment!
Don't stress yourself with meditation. Thoughts will come and go even with more advanced practitioners.
Didn't feel like it…and the oil didn't smell the same.