Show Up — Open Up — See the Truth — Accept What Is
In today’s geopolitical environment, yoga practitioners are challenged to maintain inner clarity and calm amid collapsing external social, environmental, and governmental systems. How is that possible? For me, the question became, “How can I express positive energy through my everyday experiences into the outer world as a countermeasure to all the negative energy of fear, anger, and hatred?”
As a first step, I have to Show Up, which means paying attention moment by moment to what is emerging internally and externally. Such presence requires willingness and curiosity. I have abundant curiosity, but my willingness can be a shortcoming. Commitment to being here — in my body, in my life, in this moment — even if things feel messy or uncertain, means choosing to be present rather than distracted. Showing Up is the antidote to avoidance. This is where growth begins, where we move from unconscious to conscious and engage with our emerging experiences.
Once I acknowledge that any change begins with my personal participation, starting with awareness, the deepest alchemy is triggered. My willingness to stay conscious of my own unconsciousness begins a new learning journey. At this stage, I remind myself that whatever shows up right now is right for me. It is for my highest learning and understanding. I am on a discovery mission. It is time to break the mold. No need to seek understanding. Understanding emerges when we are present to what exists within.
I hope my poem below illustrates the deep alchemy evidenced by staying awake.
Core Being
At one’s core await balance and integration,
a balanced cooperation between alone and together,
a synthesis of old identities with emerging heart’s desire.
At one’s core rest the stillness and silence of home,
a still space where infinite potential occupies the body,
a silence free of pain-avoidance and pleasure-seeking.
At one’s core are glimpsed wisdom and joy,
a wisdom teased forth in deeply-buried, ancient truths,
a bliss that knows truth, beauty, and goodness.
Over the next few weeks, I will continue to explore the remaining stages of practice.
For more yoga actions and teachings, click here. Namaste.