Find Your Inner Sancuary This Holiday Season

 

Find Your Inner Sancuary This Holiday Season

 

 

 

 

Link your inner and outer landscape with the ancient practice of yoga and experience true bliss.

Since the dawn of time, man has sought to go beyond the self to reach a higher state of consciousness and inner harmony. One common thread to achieving this state of "oneness" is to go within by a process of disciplining the mind and body. Once the mind and body are aligned, the spirit naturally engages and all parts of the self are unified. This concept is at the very core of basic human desire; every human being wants to find happiness, a state that is completely reached only when we are "whole." This very quest is something that exists within each of us. Our goal then becomes what dwells within.

For many, meditation is a tough practice to engage in with discipline. The mind races with a resounding chatter that's enough to send us reeling out of control. Moving meditations such as yoga practice is an excellent way to begin to peel back the layers that embed the "true self" or our highest expression. It is at this level where enlightenment, bliss, harmony and peace exists. So how to we get there?

Yoga Practice

Yoga is an ancient science of health for the physical body and balance for the mind that provides a foundation to self knowledge. It is a distinctive and individual journey to unveiling the true self. In Sanskrit, yoga literally means "yoking" or union with mind and body. The meditative movements explore the stillness within motion, strength within ease, and wisdom within action. The combination of breath and movement uncovers the layers of the true self.

Peeling Back the Koshas to Find Peace

The koshas are the many facets or layers of a human being. The ancient spiritual practice of Vedanta, uses the koshas to uncover the divine self. Practicing different yoga postures (asanas) helps to create a balance in each of the five layers (koshas) and leads to self knowledge. The layers work from the outer most level (Annamayakosha) to the inner most layer (Anandamyakosha) and represent different areas of the human body.

1. Annamayakosha - This layer represents the physical body and the five elements defined in Ayurvedic medicine (earth, water, fire, air, and space). Different yoga postures directly balance this level of the body.
2. Pranamyakosha - This is the energy body and includes the subtle energy vortexes or wheels known as the chakras and the Prana Vayus or main energy currents of the body. It is the breath, how we take it in and how well it nourishes the organ systems. When prana is blocked or stagnant, disease can occur. Yoga postures open up the energy body and restores balance.
3. Manomayakosha - This layer represents our emotional responses. It includes the fight or flight response, survival, reproduction, social roles and personality. This kosha relates to our psycho-emotional health. The Manomayakosha is easily thrown out of balance by stress and can result in physical and mental illness. Yoga practice is an excellent way to de-stress and relax the body and mind bringing this kosha back into alignment.
4. Vjnyanamayakosha - This layer corresponds to our wisdom, intuition and insight. Becoming a witness to how we live and doing away with patterns that are physically or emotionally destructive is necessary for the development of our higher self. Yoga postures help to calm the mind and is essential for the wisdom body.
5. Anandamayakosha - This is the true self or bliss body. The nature of this self is inner directness, stillness and contentment. This level is experienced momentarily but it gives us a clearer understanding of our true nature. All yoga practice is a catalyst for this level of awareness.

The inner and outer landscape of the physical and emotional body are directly linked . By aligning these layers through the practice of moving meditations such as yoga, we begin to peel back and eradicate the painful parts of our life and embrace a higher vibration of living. When we connect with our true self life becomes easier and a certain sense of familiarity takes hold.

 

Blessings,

Mary Jane

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

The copyright of the article The Inner Sanctuary in Hatha Yogais owned by Mary Jane Kasliner. Permission to republish The Inner Sanctuary in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Throat in the Solar Plexus Chakra

 

Why shadow the truth beneath layers of the surface – the voice of the word is meant to be spoken and flourish like singing tulip heads unending between heaven – man and earth. The chalice is open to all truths that flow but narrows at the bottom if you withhold the word. There is no beginning or end to the strength found in ones truth. The aforementioned words and thoughts came to my conscious mind while meditating on the Mandala for this chakra microcosm.

 

Namaste,

Mary Jane

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

Gratitude

Gratitude

 

Thanksgiving says it all when it comes to gratitude. It is a time of year when friends and family gather to give thanks. Take some time this season to get quiet and move to the spirit within. Below are some beautiful quotes that can be used as a theme for daily meditation.


1. “At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.” — Albert Schweitzer

2. “You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before the play and pantomime, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing and grace before I dip the pen in the ink.” — G. K. Chesterton

3. “No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks”. — Unknown

4. “Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” — Marcel Proust

5. “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” — Epictetus

6. “You simply will not be the same person two months from now after consciously giving thanks each day for the abundance that exists in your life. And you will have set in motion an ancient spiritual law: the more you have and are grateful for, the more will be given you.” — Sarah Ban Breathnach

7. “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” — Thornton Wilder

8. “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” — Albert Einstein

9. “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” — William Arthur Ward


May you have joy around you always.

Namaste,
Mary Jane
www.fengshuiyoganj.com
www.njfengshuitraining.com

 

Allow Peace to Lead The Way

Allow Peace to Lead The Way

 

 



 

 

How can we allow peace into our lives and bring it into the lives of others? The easiest way to do this in my opinion is through a daily meditation practice. Easier said then done, as to quiet the mind for even a few seconds is challenging let alone for the recommended 30 minutes. So why even do it? Meditation is not only a healthy practice but an access point to our higher self - referred many times to the 3rd eye or point between the brow. Here we can access guidance from our spirit guides and tap into a realm of peace and quietude that can transform our day-to-day activities.  Sounds like a worthwhile practice to me.

Where to begin:

The best way to begin meditating it to commit to a few minutes a day, preferable in the morning, to sit and just be silent. Your mind will begin to race but just try to acknowledge the thoughts that float in and allow them to pass. It’s helpful to use your breath to move pass these active thoughts. The louder the breath the better, as the sound becomes a mantra for your focus.

Comfort:

Make sure you do whatever it takes to be comfortable in your meditation. An erect spine and open chest is best for effective meditation. However, this is easier said than done. It’s not easy to sit in an erect position without some part of your body beginning to speak up. Following these simple tips on staying comfortable will go a long way for your meditation practice.

1. Use props to support your hips, low back, knees or whatever area you need assistance with.

2. Make sure your hips are at least 3 inches higher than your knees.

3. Sit in a chair if the floor is too difficult.

4. Prop your back against a wall to maintain posture.

The important thing here is to do what it takes to be comfortable so your focus is on the breath and meditation rather than an uncomfortable hip, back or knee. Whatever prop you choose just stick to a routine so you develop a habit for a meditation practice.

Simple Mantra:

Sometimes something as simple as the sound mantra for the breath or "So Hum" can be a very effective meditation technique. Simply repeat the sound of "So" on your inhalation and the sound of "Hum" on your exhalation. Repeat the cycle breath mantra for several minutes to quiet the mind and ease your focus inward.

3rd Eye Mandala:

The mandala or sacred image of the 3rd eye in my intuitive opinion appears to convey the

fire of heaven that pulls us deep into our very being. The easiest way is straight in – no detours just move into higher being.  As you do so there is a windfall of blessings that funnels into the physical plane of being. Widen the web of illusion with truth. Listen with big ears and see with big eyes.

 All potential and all knowing (OM), come from the web behind the veil of illusion. Allow the wheel to keep turning one spoke at a time – for this is the way we come and we go.

This is my interpretation of the third eye. It has a natural and powerful way to help us perceive and command things in this material world through the path of the heavenly world. The path is crystal clear that opens the door to peace. We can walk in and trust our intuition, know right timing so as to limit the amount of self induced stress and suffering that undoubtedly leads to inner and outer chaos. Let go of the illusions and tap into the source of peace available for us at any time and at any turn.

 

Namaste!

Mary Jane

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 For more chakra talk see this site too: http://www.goyogaonline.com/7-chakras-mind-body-online-bodhi-yoga-chakra-training-with-syl-carson/

Are You Rooted in Your Actions and Words?

 

Are You Rooted in Your Actions & Words?

 

 

How confident are you in your thoughts, actions and words? Do you feel as though you have to watch what you say to certain people or feel dejected if someone says something about you? Don't feel bad if the answer to these questions are a resounding yes. Most of us are not firmly rooted and confident in our actions and words. By and large, this happens as a way of programming. I can guarantee someone during your informative years preached the words; "Be careful what you say otherwise people won't like you." Sound familiar? So how do we get past this 'tip-toe' through the proverbial tulips. For one, we need to understand what energy centers can catapult us into a stable point when it comes sharing our thoughts confidently.

The throat chakra is formally know as the center of purification. In Sanskrit the word for this purification center is Visuddha. It is a point that can successfully resonate with the vibrational energy of the word "Truth." When we engage with our own truth it can be very liberating. When you can own your words you gain full perspective of the truth. If not, then you are not living your word but rather wearing it as a garment. Garments have a funny way of going out of style or simply fading from true form.

One of the easiest ways to activate the throat center is to delve deeper into who You are and the language that defines you. You can do this many ways including; writing intentions about the perfect you, a walking meditation, or simply wafting some eucalyptus oil during a seated meditation.

Once you discover the true language about you, it is time to root it into your being. This is where the root chakra embeds into the throat. You begin to find your beliefs and words become a strong anchor. You no longer worry about hurting others feelings and you don't take things to heart. You find freedom in exploring what you hear and what you speak. There is a confidence that is unbreakable, as the very fabric of your being is woven into the fabric of the universe.

Suggested Yoga Poses:

 

Three PowerfulThroat Openers:

1. Camel Pose: In this pose the heart and throat immediately open so prana (energy) can circulate more readily. Hold this pose for several breaths.

 

 

 

2. Bow: This pose allows the throat to cast forward in opening. Hold for several breaths.

 

 

3. Fish: Rise the throat towards the heavens. Hold for several breaths.

 

Here's to owning your words!


Namaste,
Mary Jane
www.fengshuiyoganj.com
 

Are You Grounded in Your Truth?

Are You Grounded in Your Truth?

 

Acadia National Park - 2013

 

 

 

How confident are you in your thoughts, actions and words? Do you feel as though you have to watch what you say to certain people or feel dejected if someone says something about you? Don't feel bad if the answer to these questions are a resounding yes. Most of us are not firmly rooted and confident in our actions and words. By and large, this happens as a way of programming. I can guarantee someone during your informative years preached the words; "Be careful what you say otherwise people won't like you." Sound familiar? So how do we get past this 'tip-toe' through the proverbial tulips. For one, we need to understand what energy centers can catapult us into a stable point when it comes sharing our thoughts confidently.

 

The throat chakra is formally know as the center of purification. In Sanskrit the word for  this purification center is Visuddha. It is a point that can successfully resonate with the vibrational energy of the word "Truth." When we engage with our own truth it can be very liberating. When you can own your words you gain full perspective of the truth. If not, then you are not living your word but rather wearing it as a garment. Garments have a funny way of going out of style or simply fading from true form.

 

One of the easiest ways to activate the throat center is to delve deeper into who You are and the language that defines you.  You can do this many ways including; writing intentions about the perfect you, a walking meditation, or simply wafting some eucalyptus oil during a seated meditation.

 

Once you discover the true language about you, it is time to root it into your being. This is where the root chakra embeds into the throat. You begin to find your beliefs and words become a strong anchor. You no longer worry about hurting others feelings and you don't take things to heart. You find freedom in exploring what you hear and what you speak. There is a confidence that is unbreakable, as the very fabric of your being is woven into the fabric of the universe.

 

Here's to owning your words!

 

Namaste,

Mary Jane

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

 

For more great logs on Chakra talk visit my teacher: http://www.goyogaonline.com/7-chakras-mind-body-online-bodhi-yoga-chakra-training-with-syl-carson/

 

 



 

Simple Acts of Kindness

Simple Acts of Kindness

 

The More We Give The More We Receive

 

 

 

It's funny how those who want more in life sometimes overlook the one thing that can answer the call - giving.  Giving from the heart can be as simple as an act of kindness. This can vary from donating to a local charity or simply holding the door open for a stranger.

 

When we engage in simple acts of kindness, we are embracing the union between the heart and solar plexus chakras. These two energy points interact in a way to elicit power in the way we love. We are able to accept self and others exactly as is. When we are able to do this, it makes it that much easier to be kind.

 

When we consider the symbol of the heart chakra; the interlocking masculine and feminine triangles or what is referred to as the merkeba, we find balance within. Taking that perfect sense of harmony  and infusing it with the power center (solar plexus), we become motivated to take action. The action we take is one of loving kindness rather than fear and doubt. In turn, we are able to influence others to take action and the flow of kindness expands.

 

Love empowers.  It makes a difference in the lives of others and brings about transformation. As we transform we elevate our state of being and the vibration of those around us. So let's get on board with .random acts of kindness and create a world of peace and harmony. Here are a few simple ways to engage the heart and solar plexus chakras to get the ball of kindness rolling.

 

1. Take some partner yoga classes. It's all about give and take.

 

2. Allow yourself to be vulnerable even if it is just for one day.

 

3. Give a loving gift to someone special in your life.

 

4. Make a commitment to a daily random act of kindness.

 

Here's to giving and receiving!

 

Namaste!

 

Mary Jane - Feng Shui Master & Yogi

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

Check out more chakra talk: http://www.goyogaonline.com/7-chakras-mind-body-online-bodhi-yoga-chakra-training-with-syl-carson/

 

 

Are You Spinning Your Wheels?

Are You Spinning Your Wheels?

 

 

 

 

 

Do you ever feel as though you can't get off the wheel of habit? One day melds into the next, same job, same house, same, same, same. This is when the ego tends to drop in and make a move for change but instead of letting things flow naturally, the ego prefers to make things happen NOW. This is better known as aggressive power. We push, control, contort and do anything possible to get what we think we want.

 

The obvious problem with this approach is stress. All kinds of obstacles end up arising and the wheel just keeps on spinning. Ah, if you take a moment and tune in you'll realize that is the universe telling you the timing isn't right.

 

 

Surrender - Intuition & Strength:

 

This is a powerful trio that when utilized will break the wheel of habit in half. Some of the most successful people in the world work with this trio and find themselves at the right place at the right time. So how can we get to that place of right timing? Simple, allow your intuition to come from a place of confident choice. This is where we experience two chakras at play; the third eye and solar plexus. When these two energy portals are in sync, we experience a personal surrender to the power within. Below are some simple suggestions of how to syncopate these two chakras:

 

• Create a vision board of what it is your higher self is conveying to you. Keep that board in an area where you can see it daily.
• Learn to follow your intuition with daily meditation practice. Make sure in your meditations you draw the focus towards the third eye (brow) area. Reciting the mantra seed sound of Kshum is also beneficial.
• Infuse the colors of yellow and indigo into your wardrobe.
• Infuse the scent of lemon around your home or during meditation practice.
• Energize your solar plexus during yoga practice with plank pose or standing balancing poses. Engage your focus up to the 3rd eye while holding your asana.

If we follow the law of least effort, we actually accomplish more in life. We let go of the need to force things and allow the energy of a perfectly timed universe to take the lead. What will follow is opportunities beyond our belief and power that sustains our spirit.

 

 

For more great chakra talk feel free to peruse this site by clicking here.

 

Namaste!

Mary Jane

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



Tune Up Your Naval Chakra and Get Happy!

Tune Up Your Naval Chakra and Get Happy!

 

The very purpose of life is to live happy. The Dalai Lama once stated: " The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater is your sense of well-being." So why do so many people walk around looking "Unhappy?" Well, I am sure there is a laundry list of reasons why people will tell you they are not happy but the simple fact remains we all have a choice to be happy. It is simply how we decide to view daily circumstances.

Why not take an assertive position in choosing the path of happiness by tuning up your naval chakra? This is the portal most associated with pleasure and simple joys in life. It is the area of the body that initiates movement - whether that movement comes in the form of belly laughter, dancing, or being intimate with that special person in your life.

Start Your Engines:

One of the easiest things you can do to awaken this chakra is to put on those dancing shoes. That's right, kick back and let it all hang out. Even if your dancing shoes are the bedroom slippers, the idea is to let go and let your inner child get moving.

Connect and feel safe in doing your thing by tapping into your foundation. What do I mean by "your foundation?" Know your roots, where you come from, and what you stand for. Here are some simple ways to tap into your roots:

• Pull out the old family photos and have a good laugh over the clothes or hairstyle you were sporting.
• Get to know YOU again. When that happens you feel safe to get your groove on.
• Engage in standing yoga poses and feel your feet lock into the stability of the earth.
• Go for a walk in nature and find a few interesting stones and place them in your home.

Awaken Joy:

Something as simple as the choice of color or perfume scent you choose is a powerful way to change your mood. Wearing playful colors like different hues of orange or making your own perfume using Neroli essential oil is a great way to awaken and clear this playful chakra. And don't forget to sign up for a laughing yoga class. These classes are hysterical! You can't help but be happy when everyone around you can't stop laughing.

Don't forget to check your surrounding environment too. The west is all about childlike bliss so make sure in this direction of your home you have images that bring joy to your life. Adding accents of metal and earth elements will naturally elevate the area of creative joy within your home. FOr more about creating peace and joy in your environment click here.

So the next time you are feeling down and ready to throw that pity party, think again. Throw the party alright but check the frowns at the front door. Roll out your yoga mat and roll around instead. Or if you're really feeling silly, just sing your favorite song as if you are the star of the show!


Check other great Chakra Talk blogs by clicking here

Namaste!
Mary Jane
www.fengshuiyoganj.com

Energy Wheels - Transform Your Reality

Energy Wheels - Transform Your Reality

 

Chakras: The Seven Life-Force Energy Centers

Transform Your Reality

 

 

We all have the ability to transform our life if we choose to. There are many modalities that can assist in the process but there is nothing more powerful then working with the vibration of energy. All energy vibrates outward and directly impacts other vibrations that it comes in contact with. You are simply one more element in this vibrating Universe that releases a vibration.

In order to achieve vibrational harmony and positive change we need to work at the etheric level. We can do this by awakening the chakras (energy wheels) in the body and structure through sound, color, stones, scents and movement. As a result you can nourish all aspects of your life and transform your reality.

“Chakra” is a Sanskrit word literally meaning "wheels of light."  These centers were named as such because of the circular shape to the spinning energy centers (vortexes) which exist in our subtle etheric body, the non-material energetic counterpart to our physical body. 

There are seven main chakras with seven subset chakras or microcosm of the greater macrocosm. They are positioned along the main channel (sushumna) or spine extending out the front and back of the body.  They constantly pull energy in from the surrounding environment.

The two lesser channels of energy -- the Pingala on the right – (yang representation or Sheva downward manifesting) and Ida on the left (yin representation or Shakti liberating or upward current), run parallel to the spinal cord. These wheels of energy both take up and collect prana (life force energy also known as qi) and transform and pass it on to the physical body and organ systems.

Each chakra (energy wheel) is associated with a certain part of the body, specific aspect of human behavior, and internal organ system. These energy wheels rotate at different frequencies relative to location in the body and awareness of the individual to integrate the characteristics of each chakra into their life. The lower wheels are associated with fundamental emotions and needs vibrating at a lower frequency as they are denser in nature. The finer energies of the upper wheels correspond to our higher mental and spiritual aspirations and faculties. These wheels rotate at a higher frequency then the lower wheels.

The openness and flow of energy through the chakras (energy wheels) determines our state of health and balance and empowers us on a physical, mental and spiritual level. As the Universal Laws of vibration, resonance and attraction are all based on the same principle – like vibrations attract, then aligning this subtle sensory system invites endless blessings into our life.

 

 

Finding the Flow:

 

One of the easiest ways to begin to align the subtle energy body is to incorporate a daily yoga and meditation practice. Keep things simple and think like a child. In other words, when a child goes out to play there isn't a thought process - there is simply the act to PLAY! This too should be your approach and actually is naturally built into our energetic body - specifically the second chakra or naval portal.

 

I personally enjoy a brief meditation first thing in the morning. I like to sit on my meditation cushion facing the east - sun rise position, so I can imbue my body with the essence of strong and pure ions of the atmosphere. Next, I encircle my aura using my hands with an energetic protective field visualizing  4 guardian angels (Michael, Gabriel, Uriel and Raphael) surrounding my body.

 

Once I feel protected, I move to simple in and out breaths to center my mind. Once I feel totally at peace I continue to sit for several more minutes to digest the energy before moving into a simple yoga practice that changes from day to day. Generally, I work with the energy I feel within. Some days I can flow through many sun salutations and warrior poses and other days I just want to remain on the earth in inversions.

 

The idea is to generate the flow of prana or life force within to tap into the energy of your sensory systems - and that includes the chakras. Stay tuned for more blogs on the chakras!

 

Namaste,

Mary Jane - Yoga Teacher & Feng Shui Master

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

 

For more great Chakra Talk see my teachers blog: http://www.goyogaonline.com/7-chakras-mind-body-online-bodhi-yoga-chakra-training-with-syl-carson/

 

 



My Perspective of Energy in the Chakras

Overall Impression of Energy:

 

My Perspective of Energy in the Chakras

Photo Taken by Mary Jane Kasliner

 

 

Everything is a continuum – many microcosms to the greater macrocosm. There is a constant ebb and flow of energy since the dawn of time. The Taoist philosophy – out of the wuji, or the great void is born the tai chi – one yang bit and one yin bit. These two interdependent polarities drive the forces of the Universe (macrocosm) and the forces of the human body (microcosm).  These interdependent forces follow the rules of binary math – whereby 1 representing yang or God source creates all things out of nothing (0) or yin.

The crown is all knowing – all potential from heavenly father. It is the natural electricity from the stars that act as one half of the electromagnetic field that binds all atoms for life to ensue. It is the manifestation into being of the earthly realm (Root). It is the material aspects – the yin force or Mother Earth. It is through the magnetism from Her spinning on a rotational axis (can be likened to the spine with rotating ida and pingala) that forms the other half of the electromagnetic field equation essential for life to exist. That which is above (Father – God Source – Yang ) is received below ( Mother – Matter – Yin). Mother is receptive to that which is thrust upon her. Likewise, She releases energy upwards back to Father source and the cosmos. One cannot exist without the other.

The root is our physical body experience of our spiritual essence. It must learn how to become spirit again through the chakra journey. Innately we know the way. It is simply a reawakening of coming home.

Simple Meditation to find the Crown in the Root:

Know that all things originate from the crown through the root. This can be likened to a newborn crowning its head through the root base of Mother. New ideas, like a newborn baby, originate from the downward manifesting Sheva energy responding to the liberating upward Shakti energy. To capture and work with this energy, it is a good idea to tune into first. Below are a few suggestions of how you can do just that.

1. Take a traditional meditation position with hips slighly higher than knees so the spine will fall into alignment.

2. Place some grounding stones nearby such as smokey quartz or black tourmaline.

3. Take a root chakra hand mudra (Pran life) by joining the ring and pinky finger to thumb and point the index and middle finger forward. Rest hands upon knees in this mudra position.

4. Begin to tune into the breath with a count of 4 in- and - 4 out. Take four full rounds. We work with the number four as it represents the four corners of the earth and the 4 guardians of the land represented by the 4 cardinal directions.

5. Begin to chant the sound mantra for the root and crown chakras (Lam - Om). Alternate these sound vibrations for several minutes or until you feel fully connected to that above and below.

6. From and easy seated position simply rock forward into a child's pose for four breaths; then move to rabbit pose so the crown of the head moves into the earth. Hold this position for 4 breaths. Return to child's pose.

7. Finish your meditation by walking outdoors with bare feet on Mother Earth as you take periodic stops to cast your gaze skyward.

 

Namaste,

Mary Jane - Yoga Teacher & Feng Shui Master

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

Have fun perusing my teachers site on the Chakras!: http://www.goyogaonline.com/7-chakras-mind-body-online-bodhi-yoga-chakra-training-with-syl-carson/

 

 

 

The Meaning of 108 Sun Salutation

The Meaning of 108 Sun Salutations

 

 

Asbury Park, New Jersey

 

A japa mala or mala is an eastern rosary with 108 beads. The mala is used both in Hinduism and Buddhism for counting mantras, chants or prayers. 108 has been a sacred number for a long time, and this number is explained in many different ways. Here are a few explanations:

• Indian/Buddhist thought states that the outer universe is mirrored in the inner man. He is the microcosm and the objective universe is the macrocosm. The number 108 represents the distance between the devotee and the God within.
• The chain of 108 links is held together by 107 joints, the number of marmas, or weak spots, in the body according to the Ayurvedic way.
• The 108 sacred meridians points on the human body in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
• The 108 Karanas of dance, with 108 movements.
• The Chinese, very aware of the esoteric and the use of this same symbolism employed it also in their various systems, Taoist and Buddhist. The Yang style form with 108 moves is an example.
• The 108 stations a candidate had to go through to leave the temple, the 108 steps through danger and death, which also signifies the level of the spiritual adept who must overcome on the spiritual planes the 108 intermediate regions of danger and trial.
• The distance between the earth and sun = 108 times the diameter of the sun.
• Distance between the earth and the moon = 108 times the moon's diameter
• The diameter of the sun = 108 times the diameter of the earth.

Lastly and most importantly, the beads represent, in a simple yet powerful way, the ideas of karma and reincarnation--a rarely disclosed fact. The thread that the beads are strung upon symbolizes the Sutratma, the Spirit or Thread Soul. This is the reincarnating Ego, our true Self, that dons a new garment, a new personality for each lifetime. Each bead strung on the thread is one of those lives that has served its purpose in the evolution of the Higher Self, our God within. We are supposed to join with that inner divinity by building a bridge, called Antahkarana, through meditation and other disciplines......this
is enlightenment.

 

Namaste,

Mary Jane

www.fengshuiyoganj.com

 

Getting Quiet

Meditation ~ Getting Quiet

 

 

Meditation is very difficult.  To quiet the mind for even a few seconds is challenging let alone for 30 minutes. So why even do it? Meditation is not only a healthy practice but an access point to our higher self where we can access guidance from our spirit guides.  Sounds like a worthwhile practice to me.

Where to begin:

The best way to begin meditating it to commit to a few minutes a day, preferable in the morning, to sit and just be silent. Your mind will begin to race but just try to acknowledge the thoughts that float in and allow them to pass. It’s helpful to use your breath to move pass these active thoughts. The louder the breath the better, as the sound becomes a mantra for your focus.

Comfort:

Make sure you do whatever it takes to be comfortable in your meditation.  An erect spine and open chest is best for effective meditation.  However, this is easier said than done.  It’s not easy to sit in an erect position without some part of your body beginning to speak up.  Following these simple tips on staying comfortable will go a long way for your meditation practice.

1.       Use props to support your hips, low back, knees or whatever area you need assistance with.

2.       Make sure your hips are at least 3 inches higher than your knees.

3.       Sit in a chair if the floor is too difficult.

4.       Prop your back against a wall to maintain posture.

The important thing here is to do what it takes to be comfortable so your focus is on the breath and meditation rather than an uncomfortable hip, back or knee.  Whatever prop you choose just stick to a routine so you develop a habit for a meditation practice.

 

Simple Mantra:

Sometimes something as simple as the sound mantra for the breath or "So Hum" can be a very effective meditation technique. Simply repeat the sound of "So" on your inhalation and the sound of "Hum" on your exhalation. Repeat the cycle breath mantra for several minutes to quiet the mind and ease your focus inward.

 

I suggest using this simple technique to get the meditation process moving forward. Once you have developed a routine there are many other meditation techniques you can delve into. Let's save those for another blog.

 

Happy Meditating!

 

Mary Jane