practice regard for yourself...then share it!

Most of us have been on an airplane and heard that we should "secure our own mask before attempting to help others." At first glance, this can seem self-serving and selfish, but we all know that unless we care for and nurture ourselves...we don't have much to offer others.
Here are some phrases I ran across in a recent Yoga Journal article:
May I be happy
May I be peaceful
May I be safe from harm
May I be free of suffering
May I hold myself with softness and care.

Then I like to add to those phrases...may all people....
May all people be happy
May all people be peaceful
May all people be safe from harm
May all people be free of suffering
May all people regard themselves with softness and care.

Repeat these phrases, see how you feel.... and allow your love and compassion to flow.

"Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment"

Came across this quote from the ancient mystic Rumi. So often we feel that we need to have all the answers, be in control, and never admit any weakness. As this quote states, there are times that it can be very wise to set aside the need to be "clever" and instead, admit that we do not know everything. When we can be open to learning something new, we are better listeners and may even realize that our "version" of the facts is not entirely accurate.
So...being "clueless" once in awhile may not be such a bad thing! It may just mean that you are stepping out of your comfort zone, trying something new, and being open to where that experience might lead.
Have a peaceful day!

summer class

A summer yoga class begins next Monday June 14th-August 2 (skip Monday July 5 and July 19) at Advent United Methodist Church. Class is 4:30-5:30pm. Please register by Saturday June 12 if you are interested in attending.