Seeing What Can't be Seen

Our ego is the part of ourselves  that needs to be seen by others. As a result it is often overly concerned what others will think of us. A fact that anyone who wants to make money preys on with enormous success. When we move through life without mindfulness, we give our egos free reign over our decisions and their resulting actions.

We navigate our realities, making decisions in them, through the use of our senses. Each collects stimuli with which we interpret our interactions with others. Interpret is an important concept here. We've all heard about the one event viewed by many. There are as many different accounts of the event as there are viewers. Our interpretations must be tempered by a knowledge of ourselves. Our motivations and experiences color our interpretation of objective stimuli. We judge because we have emotional reactions to any given set of circumstances.

This week we contemplate our inner sight. That point of view which has a broader view of things than our egos. That part of ourselves which makes wise decisions. In order to hear or see with this particular perspective we must place less emphasis on our physical senses. They are vital for processing that which is in front of us, but are distracting when considering that which lies within.
Examine the demands of your ego. Are they actions that would set you on the path to becoming the best version of yourself?

When you listen to the silence are there other ideas that reach you?

Do Not Fear Silence

Communication is the key to our relationships. This is why I emphasis awareness of our inner tone. How you relate to yourself is an important indicator of your attitude in the world. But just as important is the tone of the silence between words and conversations.

There are many ways of communicating, the voice and choice of words but one. We use our body more often than words and because it is at times unconscious, it is a more honest form of communication  Our face readily expresses what we're thinking. Our eyes have been described as the window to our souls. 

We can also express ourselves through a medium, such as the written word, paint, an instrument or clay. Each is an opportunity to tell the world how the artist feels. 

Choice is a focal idea when it comes to many things, but in communication it is an important consideration. What we feel in a given moment, if we are not mindful, can be expressed in a way that is designed to make others reflect how we feel. You've heard the phrase misery loves company. This is true of all emotions. It's easier to wish good upon others when you're feeling that you've experienced good. Even if you don't wish for anyone to feel bad when you do, everyone expresses themselves to others. If you are not diligent you will lash out without meaning to.

Another aspect of communication we use constantly is energy exchange. Have you ever entered a room and been able to sense the mood, even if no one is speaking? Known what your partner or child is feeling, even if they don't say? Ever had someone ask you a question and heard the question they'd like to ask underneath? It's in silent moments we can pick up on theses feelings.

It's the silence with which I would have you concern yourselves with this week. Do you fear the quiet? Is it because there are things going on in your head you're avoiding? Is there an incessant stream of consciousness conversation occurring every time you see a certain person because if it were quiet you'd think of all the things that aren't being said? 

In the silence is where you must practice existing. When you come to terms with the silence, what you fill it with will be more meaningful and honest. And maybe you won't find yourself blathering away incessantly or plugging in head phones as often. Or saying something that people immediately know to be untrue because your energy and body language are honest and you words are not. 

Silence allows you the opportunity to listen. As you address your issues so the silence becomes welcome, you will be surprised at what you pick up. Not only will you hear the full nuance of conversations, you will know things that people aren't saying out loud. 

Our practice this week will be centered around the throat. We will explore those thoughts we tend to fill our silent moments with. We will work to open ourselves to being receptive, instead of filling space to be comfortable and stuck. 

Be True to Yourself

Just make sure its to your Self, not your self...

Having an open heart can be a pretty scary proposition. It seems sometimes that our emotional defenses really protect us from pain. But you prevent yourself from fully processing and subsequently letting go of your pain. Having an open heart can allow you the opportunity not only to serve others compassionately, but also to care for and serve yourself.

Consider the intentions of the past few weeks. Having developed a firm, grounded outlook, coupled with the ability to be aware of emotions and let them go means we can have a clear, open heart. When we take action from that place, instead of from bitter experiences, our relationships will be filled with less strife. Even with ourselves. But if you are still having trouble letting go now is the time to forgive yourself those things. Make yourself once again aware of the tone of your inner monologue. Why do you sound that way? What are you holding against yourself? How does it influence your interaction with others?

This week's yoga will focus on opening the heart. Yoga is a process by which you can begin to look past the ego and know your true Self. That part of yourself which isn't swayed by the opinions of others. That part of yourself that isn't petty and narrow minded. That part of yourself that knows what you inflict on others, you inflict on yourself, and vice versa. Show compassion to yourself and you will be able to do so for others. If you can't, show compassion for others and begin to open to the idea that you also deserve the same.