Volume XXII, No. 3, August 2013

Tantric By Sri Swami Satchidananda

Many people ask if they can practice tantric Yoga when they are married. They think it has to do with sex. This is a complete misunderstanding of tantric Yoga, which doesn’t involve any sexual union. The tantric scriptures of old are not referring to physical union, though they sometimes use terms of that nature to express a certain spiritual coming together.

In the Christian tradition you may say a nun is wedded to God or the church, or you can say a pious Jew is wedded to the Tomb. Of course, this doesn’t mean a marriage for any sexual purpose. It’s the same in tantric Yoga. The union is of Siva and , which are the masculine and feminine vibrations or powers that are within each of us. The power that creates and manifests is Shakti. The static part, which is the cause or the basis, is Siva. In the body itself, the power of Siva is from the naval upward. The power of Shakti resides below.

Anything that pulls you down should be pulled up. So that subtle force—the creative energy—that may draw you into the sensory area should be raised up. In deep meditation the mind becomes still. You build up static energy–a little warmth–which is Shakti. That is slowly raised to the head, Siva, where they unite. By your regular meditation practice you awaken that great energy stored at the base of the spine, often called the kundalini force. It happens when your mind is one–pointed in deep meditation.

That union of Shakti and Siva is figurative. Spiritual teachings are often given in code language. Don’t think everybody can (Continued on Page 3) Inside Tantric Yoga by Sri Swami Satchidananda p. 1 The LOTUS and The Promise Letter from the Editor by Wingham p. 2 By Christine Brahmi Romero p. 14 Obstacles in Yoga by Sri Swami Sivananda p. 4 Aparigraha: Taking an Inventory By Madhavan Mark Wolz p. 15 Study by Swami Asokananda p. 6 Sharing of the value of the winter discount program Forgiveness by Swami Karunananda p. 7 By Phyllis Uma Jobes RYT, LPN p. 16 Where Is the Soul? by Swami Krishnananda p. 8 The IYTA News Column by Brahmi Milliman p. 17 Practicing Freedom by Swami p. 11 Senior Speakers’ Schedules p. 18 Yoga for Women Living with Breast Cancer By Rev. Manjula Spears p. 12 Calendar of Upcoming Programs at Yogaville p. 19 The Goal of ® Integral Yoga Teachers Association

The goal of Integral Yoga, and the birthright of every The Integral Yoga Teachers Association is a membership individual is to realize the spiritual unity behind all the association open to all Integral Yoga teachers. Its mission is diversities in the entire creation and to live harmoniously as to provide mutual support and spiritual fellowship, to share members of one universal family. information, to provide inspiration, and to conduct ongoing training and guidance. This goal is achieved by maintaining our natural condition of a body of optimum health and strength, senses under Director: Gopal Watkins total control, a mind well-disciplined, clear and calm, an Newsletter Editor: Bharata Wingham intellect as sharp as a razor, a will as strong and pliable as Graphic Design: Anand Hervé steel, a heart full of unconditional love and , Photos: Madhavan Aubert an ego as pure as a crystal, and a life filled with Supreme Archives Peace and Joy. Copy Editors:  Lilavati Eberle, Jeff Curry, Brahmi Milliman, Fradianni Attain this through asanas, pranayama, chanting of Membership Coordinator: Brahmi Milliman Holy Names, self-discipline, selfless action, , meditation, study and reflection. Integral Yoga Teachers Association Satchidananda –Yogaville Shanti, Shanti, Shanti. 108 Yogaville Way, Buckingham, VA 23921 USA Ever yours in Yoga, Tel: 434.969.3121, ext. 177 Fax: 434.969.1303 E-mail (Newsletter): [email protected] E-mail (Membership): [email protected] E-mail (Director): [email protected] Website: www.iyta.org From The Editor

Namaste! Welcome to this issue of the IYTA Newsletter. There some funny examples and insightful ways is a lot of excitement at the Ashram about our new Sivananda to counter-act the attachments in our lives Hall expansion project. It will offer increased seating capacity that lead to suffering and hindrances to our as the stage area is being expanded and the hall will be spiritual growth. partitioned off for meals and other separate activities. Swami Asokanada is sharing his insights from years of We begin with Sri Swami Satchidananda giving us a correct studying and applying the Bhagavad Gita in his life. He shares understanding of Tantric Yoga. In recent years this subject the method of removing grief from our life, na anusocitum has been a topic of much misunderstanding and misuse, and (there is no cause for grief). it is good to have a proper attitude and approach to it. Swami Karunananda writes about Forgiveness. She discusses This quote from His To Know Your Self seems to sum up the both sides of the forgiveness equation and the effects of non- entire Tantric goal as well as a caution, “Here the tantric or forgiveness, and provides us with three exercises to help in spiritual union is described as the union of the female aspect healing our grievances. with the male aspect or Shakti with Siva. That language can easily be misunderstood as referring to physical union.” And in case you have misplaced your Soul somewhere Swami Krishnananda tells you where and how to find it An exciting event took place at Yogaville earlier this year. The article LOTUS and the Promise by Christine Brahmi Romero, Madhavan Mark Wolz uses the Sun Salutation describes a special interfaith program and the Interfaith work series of poses to walk us through the Yogic principle of of LOTUS Center for All Faiths (LCAF). Swami Dayananda Aparigraha, non-greed. hosted a group of esteemed presenters, including Dr. Sayyid Syeed, the National Director and head of the Office of Phyllis Uma Jobes shares a personal and uplifting experience Interfaith & Community Alliances in Washington, DC. of organizing a group of her students as a part of the winter discount program available for IYTA members and Sri Swami Sivananda discusses a major topic of the search their students. for spiritual enlightenment, Moha. We hope you enjoy this issue of the Newsletter. It, “is one of the greatest obstacles for the spiritual aspirants… and is the root cause for human sufferings.” He offers us Om Shanti, Bharata IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 2 (Continued from Page 1) level. Some people are “teaching” tantric Yoga. But this very union will happen in your regular meditation. Tantric union will read the Bible and understand it. Ancient scriptures all have happen during any deep meditation at the point when you that esoteric or inner meaning. Here the tantric or spiritual have kept your mind still for a considerable amount of time. union is described as the union of the female aspect with the male aspect or Shakti with Siva. That language can easily be It can be proven scientifically. When the body is completely misunderstood as referring to physical union. motionless, you will feel warmth. Because there’s no wastage, the energy becomes static, just like the warmth of Some people take advantage of the language in the tantric the current you feel in a condenser. You can feel a battery’s scriptures, “I’m going to teach you tantric Yoga,” they say. warmth because there is current which isn’t flowing, but “Come sleep with me.” With a heavy heart I tell you that some is stored. During meditation you store all your prana, your so–called do this, and to them I say, “If you want to have vital energy, in the body. There’s no mental movement, no sex, be open about it. Do as you like, but don’t bring in the disturbing thoughts arising in the mind, so even that small scriptures pretending to be teaching something.” Even devils amount of energy is saved. This builds the static energy that can quote scriptures. There’s a great deal of misunderstanding creates warmth. about these things. If you come across a tantric Yoga book you may read of the offering of madya which is wine or liquor. When you go deep into meditation for such an experience, Some will say, “You are my goddess; I am the god. Let us offer your body must also be capable of bearing it. Otherwise it madya. Drink, then have sex.” This is not the drink that is meant will burst, as when you try to store too much current in a in the teachings. The madya are certain hormones within. weak condenser. This is why the body must be built up with Precisely, they are the subtle psychic hormones produced Yoga practices. by the pituitary and pineal glands, and the force behind and around them. When that kundalini or creative force rises up, it So, build a pure, strong, and flexible body. Then develop this brings warmth to those glands, and they secrete this hormone force in you. Let it build up through your deep meditation. which no doctor has ever seen in test tubes. That hormone is Rouse the static power to go through the spine and ascend called madya, the nectar you taste when Siva and Shakti are to the skull. That is the meru, the Himalayas, the height, the joined in union. You become exhilarated. You are spiritually heavens. This is the moment you taste the nectar of spiritual intoxicated by that nectar. union and are intoxicated by that great experience.

Unfortunately, this has all been misinterpreted on a worldly —Excerpt from To Know Your Self

The year 2014 marks the special occasion of the Centennial of Sri Gurudev’s birth, and we are planning celebrations from December 22, 2013 - December 22, 2014. Please join Integral Yoga International in creating a GLOBAL GARLAND of commemorative events to honor Sri Gurudev. Plans are in the works for special events at all our centers around the world. In the fall issue of the IYTA Newsletter we’ll share detailed information and ideas about how you can get involved. In the mean time you can visit GlOBAL GARLAND on Facebook to find out more.

IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 3 Obstacles in Yoga By Sri Swami Sivananda

Moha–Attachment ‘I am the body.’ Real renunciation consists in abandoning the attachment for this body. “Sarva sanga parityaga– Moha is one of the greatest obstacles for the spiritual aspirants. Giving up all sorts of attachments” is the key for attaining Moha is infatuated love for one’s own body, wife, children, the bliss of Atman. It does not mean that one should retire father, mother, brothers, sisters and property. Mind always into the forest. Sikhidhvaja still had attachment to his body gets attached to one form or other. When it is taken from and Kamandalu though he lived in the forest, whereas his one form, it clings to another form. No one is free from some wife Queen Chudala was absolutely free from any sort of kind of attachment. Aaskti (attachment), kamana (longing), attachment even though she ruled a dominion. raga (attraction) and preference to certain things are the various methods by which this great power moha binds the Thousands of widows from Bengal and Madras are staying jiva to the samsara-chakra. A man is attached to rice. He has a in Benares with the idea that they will get mukti if they die longing for eating rice when he has given up rice on account in Benares. But their minds are fixed on their grandchildren. of his diabetes. This is kamana. If rice and bread are served, a They are attached to the huge bundles of cow-dung cakes Bengali or a Madrasi will certainly have a preference for rice. which they have accumulated in the backyard of their This also you should give up if you want to destroy moha. houses for starting a fire. Some people are attached to paltry Moha is the greatest weapon of . Mysterious is maya. things such as notebooks, books, walking sticks, pictures Mysterious is moha. Moha is a kind of powerful liquor that and small handkerchiefs. The friendship of several years brings intoxication in the twinkling of an eye. comes to a termination if Mr. Rajan fails to return a small book which he borrowed from Seshu. Fighting ensues. It You would have never come into this world, had it not been begins with a showering of hot words and abuses. They do for the influence of moha. The first attachment starts with not talk and see each other from that moment. Ladies fight this physical body. Then all other attachments crop up. Then for little things, as they have a great attachment for meager comes the relationship of father, mother, brother, sister, things also. wife, son, etc. One may have attachment to a place, person or object. Wherever there is attachment, there is the idea of In Madras, a boy was accidently drowned in a tank. His mamata (mineness). Attachment is a sort of very strong glue mother who was nearby and who had an intense attachment that binds the mind with the sensual objects. Why does the to her only son immediately jumped into the tank and mind get attached to objects or persons? Because it finds drowned herself. Her husband was very much attached to pleasure in them. Wherever there is pleasure, the mind gets his wife and child. He also jumped and drowned himself. attached there. Instances like these daily occur in various parts of the world. Several people become nervous and get shocks when they Attachment is the root cause for human sufferings. It is the lose the things to which they are attached very much. Such product of avidya. It is a modification of nescience. The is the havoc done by the power of attachment. If a man husband weeps on the death of his wife, because he is receives a telegram that his only son is dead, he gets a attached to the physical body of his wife. The wife weeps shock and faints. Some people immediately die when they on the death of her husband, not because of pure love for hear such news. him, but because she can no longer get sexual pleasure and other comforts which she had when he was alive. Infatuated Look at the moha of monkeys. If the baby monkey dies, the love, delusion and fear are the old-standing associates of mother-monkey will carry the dead body for one or two attachment. The cause of fear is the attachment to this months even. Such is the great power of moha. Cows have physical body and property. Attachment and fear are great moha for their calves. inseparable. They are like fire and heat. Moha will not spare even sannyasins who have renounced You are not at all affected when one says: “That house is on everything. Moha troubled even Sri Sankara. He had to fire. The horse is dead.” Because there is neither attachment attend the sick bed and funeral of his mother, though he nor identification here. But if one says: “The house of Mr. was a sannyasin. The great saint Pattinathuswami says at Ramnarayan is on fire; The horse of Ganga Shankar is dead” the funeral of his mother: “There was at first fire at Tripura: at once the hearts of these people are affected since they then at Lanka (Ceylon). Now there is fire in my stomach have identification or attachment with the house or horse. caused by the death of my mother. Let me also apply fire to It is this kind of attachment that brings sorrow. this corpse of my mother.” Sannyasins get slowly attached to their and disciples. This is more difficult for Paramahamsa sannyasins always wander about. They eradication. This attachment is stronger than the attachment should not stay for more than three days in a place. The of worldly persons. Many are attached to their Kamandalus main object in this discipline is to cut off attachment. By and sticks and small tumblers. Even at the time of death they long stay in one place, raga and dvesha will gradually entertain thoughts of petty articles. The mind is so framed develop. Real renunciation consists in renouncing the idea: that it sticks to the old ruts and grooves. It demands drastic IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 4 and rigorous discipline and sadhana to get rid of all sorts Develop internal vairagya by understanding the illusory of’ attachment. One has to struggle hard to destroy Moha. nature of this world. Remember the pains of this samsara, birth, death, old age, disease and miseries of this world. It is moha that brings us again to this mrityu-loka. The seed Place before the mind the glorious life in Atman and the of attachment is ingrained in the subconscious mind. The immense bliss of a spiritual life. Remember the saints, sages mind tries its level best to get attached to some form or and yogins. Get inspiration from them. other. It cannot remain without clinging to one form. It leaves one form and immediately clings to another form. Learn to discriminate between the real and the unreal. Have This is its svabhava. This is due to the quality of Rajas. If Rajas no intimate connection with anybody. Lead a life of non– is eradicated, all attachments will die by themselves. One attachment in this world. The man who has no attachment should always be on the alert to detect the subtle workings to this world is the most happy man. He is God Himself. Do of moha. Moha creates delusion and perverted intellect. not bother a bit when you lose little things. Think always Through the force of maya, you mistake the unreal, dirty that the perishable objects are worthless. Repeat the body for the real, pure Atman. You take the unreal world formulas mentally several times: “All objects are vishtavat as a solid reality. These are the functions of moha. You (like dung). All objects are vishavat (like poison).” You can never wept when millions died in the Great War. But you destroy moha if you mentally repeat in all circumstances: weep bitterly when your wife is dead. Why? Because you “Even this will pass away.” have moha for her. Moha creates the idea of “mineness.” Therefore you say: “My wife. My son. My horse. My house.” Moha brings manifold miseries, bondage, discord and This is bondage. This is death. rupture. Moha is your dreadful enemy. It is real death. Non– attachment raises you to Godhead, lifts you up to the lofty You will have to train your mind daily in all dealings and heights of . Non–attachment brings unalloyed actions. Do not get attached to your wife, children and bliss, eternal life, freedom, independence, perfection, property. The world is like a public inn. People are united concord and harmony. for some time and they are separated in a short time. Turn the mind towards God and do daily japa and meditation. Moha is the greatest of all obstacles. All other obstacles in Study books on and Bhartrihari Vairagya Satakam. the practice of Yoga emanate from this moha. If you can The seeds of moha are ingrained in the subconscious mind. gradually destroy this, then the whole spiritual sadhana and You have to obliterate or fry up all these seeds through Self-realization is very, very easy. We can even say that right thinking and vichara. You will have to cut all these the whole spiritual sadhana is intended for destroying this illusory attachments through the sword of vairagya (non- dreadful enemy. attachment). Gita says: “Asangasastrena dridhena chittva— Cut this tree of maya with the sword of non-attachment.” —Excerpt from Practice of Yoga IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 5 Bhagavad Gita Study Commentary by Swami Asokananda

Chapter 2 Verse 24: The Self cannot be pierced or cut; it beyond the perception of the senses—but cannot be burned, moistened or dried. It is endless, all- “inconceivable” (achintya)—that is, beyond pervading, stable, immovable and everlasting the mind’s comprehension.

Chapter 2 Verse 25: It is said to be unmanifested, Anything beyond thought is necessarily beyond words. But inconceivable and immutable. Knowing all this, there is no is using a bunch of words to describe That which cause to grieve. is indescribable. He is trying to help us get some sense of Something that can only be grasped through one’s own Sri Gurudev: “We lose sight of our being Atman and think experience. And that experience can only come to us when constantly of becoming That.” the “I” has been purified enough to slip out of the clutches of body/mind identification. Sri Ramakrishna: “What is Brahman like? It cannot be defined with words.” As long as our feeling of “I” is associated with our instruments (the body and mind), we are bound to experience fear, The True Self (Atman) is everlasting, all-pervading, never- anxiety, discomfort as we navigate through our lives as best changing, never-moving, and timeless. It is unmanifested we can. We will have thoughts like: “I ate too much. I’m and inconceivable. Knowing this, there is no cause to grieve. stuffed. I’m getting fat.” “So-and-so is really bumming me out. How can he not see that I am right and he’s wrong?” The real It is good for us to recognize what is possible for the mind “I,” the ultimate Subject, is the Pure Awareness witnessing to understand and what is not possible for the mind to what’s taking place—maybe with some compassion and understand. Arjuna can get some conceptual grasp that the amusement. True Self is a subtle Consciousness that cannot be destroyed. In the second sentence, though, Sri Krishna wants to make Through meditating on these two verses, we can get a taste it clear that the Atman is not only “unmanifested”—that is, of na anusocitum—that there is no cause for grief.

IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 6 Forgiveness By Swami Karunananda

There’s a saying, “To err is human, to I once met a woman who, twenty years prior, had been forgive is divine.” was diagnosed with terminal liver cancer. As she was about to once asked how he could put up with undergo aggressive therapy in the hospital, she began to all the injustice and cruelty in the world. He responded, reflect: “Maybe I’m going to die soon, but I don’t want to die “I’m such a scoundrel myself, I have compassion for all like this.” She left the hospital and rented a small cabin. She the other scoundrels in the world.” When we consider spent her days visualizing being filled with forgiveness and our own weaknesses and mistakes, and how hard it is for letting go of anger. That was her entire treatment protocol. us to change, shouldn’t we be more compassionate and Little by little, she felt her strength return. Within a year, she forgiving to others? Sri Gurudev used to say that when returned to her home and resumed her work. And today, we point a finger of accusation at someone else, there decades later, she is leading a healthy, dynamic life. are three fingers pointing back at us, and there’s one, the thumb, standing up— like God—witnessing everything. Consider the alternative: We hold on to feelings of anger, resentment, and betrayal and make our lives miserable. Sri in the Yoga speaks of , which These negative feelings poison our system and set the stage means accepting pain as help for purification. All the for serious illnesses. In Chinese medicine, for example, liver annoyances and difficulties, injustices and ordeals, make problems are associated with anger. If we cling to our pain, us strong. We are like gold being purified. The problems to the wrongs we feel we have suffered, we build walls chip way at the dross in our personalities so that the true around our hearts. We imprison ourselves and feel the gold in us, our divine image, can shine forth. A saintly agony of separation, loneliness, and alienation. It’s as if we person once described it this way: “There are two types shut our windows and doors and then cry that we can’t see of people in the world: the saints and the saint-makers.” In the Light. other words, there are those who are sent to inspire us, and those who come to purify us. So, the next time you start Forgiveness issues can occur on three levels. First, there are to get annoyed at someone who pushes all your buttons, the people or events that we need to forgive. Next, there are thank them instead for showing you your weaknesses and those from whom we need to seek forgiveness. Lastly, we helping you to grow stronger. may need to forgive ourselves for perceived weaknesses or failures. The following exercises offer some suggestions on The Tirukkural advises: “At all times put up with the how to proceed. excesses of others; to forget them at once is even better.” You may ask, “How is it possible to forget when someone Forgiveness Exercise #1 has wronged you?” There’s a story about a spiritual teacher, who, as a boy, had a classmate that treated him very cruelly. Here is a good exercise to inspire you to forgive others. Begin Years later, the former classmate came to visit the teacher, by purchasing a bag of potatoes. Next, make a list of every where he was received with much kindness. After a while, person or situation you have not forgiven. For each entry on he asked the teacher, “Don’t you remember how badly your list, place one potato in a sack. Carry that sack with you I treated you when we were boys?” The teacher gently wherever you go for one week. Physically, you will feel the replied, “I distinctly remember forgetting it!” burden, and that pales compared to the subtle energy drain on your system caused by all grievances and unresolved Forgiveness is an act of choice. It is not about denying, issues you are carrying. After some time, the potatoes may condoning, or excusing hurtful actions. Rather, it is the even start to mold and rot. Then, you’ll get a glimpse of how letting go of resentment or revenge, even when they seem this inner fermentation is preventing you from experiencing warranted, and offering instead mercy and love. By so the divine fragrance within. doing, we release the past and let go of negative thoughts and feelings. We become unstuck and can move on in our Forgiveness Exercise #2 lives. Energy that was tied up within us becomes available for positive, creative endeavors. Relationships are healed, We may also need to ask for forgiveness. Asking for and we, too, are healed. forgiveness, along with sincere repentance, can heal us, as well as our relationships. Sri Gurudev addressed this Forgiveness and healing are linked. In speaking of point when speaking about reversing cancer. He said forgiveness, the Holy Bible says: “Forgive us our trespasses if you want to heal the body, you need to burn out the as we forgive those who trespass against us.” When we that caused the problem. Even if you don’t know forgive others, the spirit of forgiveness flows through us, what you did, there is something you must have done to and we, too, receive the benefit. It’s like using a funnel create the situation. To burn out the karma, do a lot of to transfer honey from one vessel to another: the funnel repentance. If you know whom you hurt, go to that person also gets the sweetness. We transfer the honey of divine and ask forgiveness. If you don’t know what you did, or forgiveness to another, and we, too, are forgiven. if it’s not possible to contact them anymore, mentally IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 7 ask for forgiveness. You could even place a picture of them. So, I decided to design a penance for myself to be the individual before you and offer your prayers in that executed over the course of a month as an act of atonement. way. By such actions, you can purge negative karma and It was challenging, but, with some effort, doable. In my heart, reduce suffering in your life. I asked God to please accept my penance.

Forgiveness Exercise #3 Those were the “pioneer days” of the IYI. We had little in the way of financial resources and lived very frugally; rarely Sometimes, it’s easier to forgive others than it is to show the did we have special treats. The room I occupied was in same compassion toward ourselves. We can be our own a solitary location, not frequented by others. With some toughest critic and judge. Many years back, when I was living difficulty, I completed the month. On the very last day, at Yogaville West in Lake County, California, I was troubled when I returned to my room that night, there was a surprise by an interaction that had occurred with a guest several years awaiting me. In the center of my altar, wrapped in gold, before. There’s a saying in the Hindu tradition: “Atithi Devo was a huge piece of chocolate! I took it as a sign that my Bhava,” which means, “Treat the guest as God.” God comes penance had been accepted. to the home in the form of a guest. On one occasion, I had not been very kind or gracious to a visitor, and every time I We are the ones that forge the chains that bind us, and we sat to meditate, remembrance of that event flashed through also hold the keys to set ourselves free. Forgiveness is one my mind and disrupted the sitting. One day, burdened and of those master keys. Use it, and watch the love and light in frustrated in this way, I came up with a plan. I couldn’t go to your life grow ever brighter. the person to apologize, as I did not know how to contact © 2013 Swami Karunananda Where Is the Soul? By Swami Krishnananda

Swamiji: (Addressed to Roger, an Italian visitor): Where have This whole world of perception is the light of the sun, and we you kept the soul? Is it in your bag, or where have you kept are searching for the soul by moving from place to place, here it? Many people keep the soul somewhere, and then search and there, like the old lady who searched for the needle in the for it elsewhere. They lose it elsewhere. By mistake, they keep light of the sun; but the needle is inside, in the dark corner of it somewhere; in the railway station, or bank, or office, or one’s own heart. This is the story of the soul. What do you say? somewhere they keep it. Then afterwards, they cannot know where it has gone. So, they are searching for it in Sivananda But, we are not finding it in the dark corner. It is dark; there is no Ashram, but they can’t find it so easily like that. There was an light inside. In the heart, there is no light. The light is outside in old lady who could not see properly. She was almost blind. the sense world. We have got electric light, sunlight, moonlight She was living in a small house without light, in a village with no and starlight. So, why not enjoy the light that is already there, electricity. She was poor and was living by sewing cloth with a and search for the soul outside? Thus, you go everywhere, travel needle. That was her profession. One day she lost that needle. the whole world twenty times, and try to find the soul, like the It fell inside somewhere, and because it was dark, she could lady searching for the needle outside, but it is in the dark corner not see, as the eyes also were not good. She went outside of the heart. You can meditate on the soul. into the bright sun, and started searching for the needle. Some people who came that way asked her what she was searching THE ABSOLUTE for. She said that she was searching for the needle that she dropped somewhere. “Where did you drop it?” they asked. Swamiji: What will you sacrifice?

“I dropped it inside,” she said. Visitor: All, if I can.

“But why are you searching for it outside, in the sun?” “Because Swamiji: No. The Absolute wants you. It does not want inside there is no light. Outside there is light, so I am searching anything else from you, it wants you only. You cannot give for it here,” she answered. This is the story of the soul. It is anything to the Absolute, because nothing actually belongs lost somewhere, but the searching is elsewhere. Where do to you. You are alone in the world. There is no such thing as we search? We look for it in enjoyments of life–in living a property; it is an illusion. Nobody can own anything. Each comfortable existence; in trying to lengthen our physical life; thing is independent, so you cannot give anything to God; in making more and more money; in increasing name, fame, you can give only yourself. That is the final thing, the sacrifice. authority, and power; in becoming king, minister, dictator, Duce (Mussolini), and all that. This is the way we try to find the Visitor: Is meditation the only way, or are there other ways soul, but we have lost it somewhere else. It is not sitting in the to reach It? Duce, and all that. A Duce has no soul; he is like anybody else. You know what is Duce? But people want to become a Duce Swamiji: There are other ways also, but they all finally lead to because they think the soul is there. meditation only. The final thing is meditation. IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 8 Visitor: What kind of initial way can we take to have good meditation?

Swamiji: Where is the Absolute at present?

Visitor: I feel that It is everywhere.

Swamiji: If so, is there anything outside the Absolute, or does only the Absolute exist? What about all these people sitting here? Are they inside the Absolute?

Visitor: Yes, surely, they are all inside the Absolute.

Swamiji: Then what is your attitude towards all things in the world? When you see a thing, what do you feel at that time?

Visitor: I respect everyone.

Swamiji: There is no “everyone.” You said, “there is only one Absolute, so why do you say “everyone?” Everyone has gone into the Absolute.

Visitor: Yes, I see the Absolute in everyone and everything.

Swamiji: If this thought can continue always, that is the the world. So one truth can be here, and in another place it highest meditation on the Absolute. But, sometimes if is not truth. It is true that you are a human being, but that is you start feeling that there are many things other than the one degree of truth. Actually, you are a little pressure point Absolute, then the meditation will not be complete. The in the cosmic sea; that is a higher truth. That is an example of eyes which see things always say that there are many things degrees of truth. Finally, there is only one truth. outside the Absolute, so you cannot trust the perception. If you can convince your deep feeling that whatever you see is Visitor: We are always trying to find truth. inside that Supreme (including yourself and everybody), that is the meditation. Then you can reach the Absolute. Swamiji: You have no other duty except to find truth. That is the highest duty. Visitor: Is the Absolute like the infinite—that is, the more you approach the Absolute, the more It seems to go away? Visitor: Some people don’t believe that truth is here in our universe; it’s in heaven. Swamiji: No. You will go more and more near to It. It is not the infinite of arithmetic. It is the Infinite that is yourself, Swamiji: Are they saying that this world is not true? Itself. It is not like the horizon which, the more you go near it, the further it recedes. Here, the Infinite does not mean an Visitor: We all have our own truth; it will lead to sects, or endless thing, but an inclusive thing. It is not mathematical, it different which don’t agree with each other. is spiritual. The Absolute is Pure Being. Swamiji: That is a mistake of the human being. It is not the Visitor: There are many doctrines. How can they put a limit mistake of the world. The world has no . It is only on the Infinite, saying that It is only one way? human beings who have religions.

Swamiji: You cannot put a limitation on the Absolute. It Visitor: Is it possible not to try to find truth, but only to live includes all the doctrines. All the doctrines go inside It. Every here, and only try to integrate oneself with the cosmos–to doctrine can be accommodated into It. It cannot be limited just feel a point in the cosmos? to any particular doctrine. It is not an empirical concept. Pure Being is impossible to think in the mind, because It cannot be Swamiji: That is a very great thing. If you can do that, there is thought. You are thinking that you are outside the Absolute. no need to do anything else. That is the highest. Then there If you are inside the Absolute, how will you raise a question? is no problem afterwards.

Visitor: Is it true that only one truth exists, or several truths exist? Visitor: How can we reach truth while we are involved in the materialistic society? Swamiji: Only one truth is there, not several truths. There are several degrees of truth, but finally it is one only. It is Swamiji: When your mind is saying that you must transcend now daytime. It is a truth, but it is not daytime everywhere in this social involvement, you have already taken one step above IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 9 society by the very idea that you have to go above it. And by Visitor: So, how can you blame someone for his past deeper meditations, the consciousness will withdraw itself samskaras? from social involvements, and you will go to the meditation state. Even in this world, you can do this meditation. In spite Swamiji: He feels that he has done it. If you ask him, he will of human society and modern materialism, you must find at say that it is his cow, land, property. Is there anybody who least one hour every day to keep yourself alone and think will say that this building belongs to God? We are bound like this. An hour’s correct thinking will set right all the other and we are free in accordance with the feeling that we have troubles of the other hours of the day. in our hearts. If you say that you have done it, then you bear the consequences. But who will say that he has not done Visitor: While trying to find truth, I feel that there is only one it? Every person who has body consciousness will feel that thing to do, which is to love. he has done it.

Swamiji: Love whom? Your actions and your very existence are included in the cosmic action. So, whatever you do is part of that. But Visitor: All of creation. don’t make the mistake of bringing your consciousness separately, as if you are doing it. Swamiji: That is the same as truth. Loving the whole creation is loving God Himself. Visitor: But it affects me.

Visitor: Is it true that all actions in the world originate from Swamiji: It affects you because your practical life is different the will of God? from what you are saying or thinking in your mind.

Swamiji: It is true and not true, both, because as long as you Visitor: I can’t help it. feel that it is not true, it is not true. Even if it is true, you are not going to be benefited by that because your heart is not Swamiji: Then there is no use of discussion. You should accepting it. If God does everything, you would not speak to not talk on this subject, because practically it doesn’t me at all. You would keep quiet. Everything would be fine. affect you. God cannot help you unless you believe in God entirely. Visitor: I kept quiet for two days, sir, and today I am leaving. You have to go slowly, step by step, by detachment, Swamiji: The third day it has become false. You tell God, “For unselfishness, charitableness, non-interference, by two days I waited for You, and the third day I don’t agree goodness of feeling in your heart and an ideal behavior. with You.” Everything is done by the will of God in a perfect That is the beginning of good conduct and the first step manner. The whole cosmos is the Body of God. Just as this towards God. Then, afterwards, you do a little prayer, body is a manifestation of your soul, the entire universe is contemplation on these things that we have been a manifestation of the Almighty Absolute Consciousness; discussing. Later on, actual meditation will start. God will therefore, nothing can move without the central will take care of you. operating. You cannot lift your finger, a hair cannot grow on your body, you cannot say anything, your breathing will stop, Visitor: If the aim of man is to realize himself and finally your heart cannot function, unless that will is there. be liberated, how does he explain this whole exercise, the cycle of predestination of man? But (and the but is the important thing), no individual in the world may feel that this is so. You are saying that you have Swamiji: The whole thing that you have mentioned is come from Delhi: you didn’t say that God has come. The included in the cosmic scheme, as all the waves and all the consciousness of your being a human being immediately bubbles and ripples in the ocean are included in the ocean. creates other associations like being a man or woman, this You will find everything, at once, in that, and you will not action, that action, etc. How can these ideas arise in the raise a question thereafter. mind of a person when no such action is really taking place, and the universe is acting simultaneously? It is incomplete Krishnananda (April 25, 1922 – November 23, knowledge of the total comprehension of the cosmos that 2001) was a disciple of Master and makes us feel that “we” are doing the action. If your mind is served as the General Secretary of the in able to switch itself on to the cosmic setup, you will have no , from 1958 until 2001. Author of more than problem anymore. 200 texts, and lecturing extensively, on yoga, religion, and , Krishnananda was a prolific theologian and Visitor: If every action is the will of God directly or indirectly philosopher. and, therefore, manifests itself, then that doesn’t leave any room for free will of man. Krishnananda was President of the Sivananda Literature Research Institute and the Sivananda Literature Dissemination Swamiji: Ultimately, what you call free will is nothing but the Committee. He served as editor of the Divine Life Society’s will of God operating. monthly paper, Divine Life, for 20 years. IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 10 Practicing Freedom By Swami Ramananda

There is a significant benefit to understanding our Yoga practice • Practice as a worship of the Divine by allowing all in the context of its original intention—stilling the thought forms movements to be guided by that Inner Intelligence and in the mind to experience the Spiritual Consciousness that is by the qualities you associate with the Spiritual Self. Feel our essential nature. Otherwise, our approach to practicing yourself moved by compassion, peace, joy or by a sense Hatha Yoga, in particular, is determined by our unconscious of oneness with the world around you. beliefs and habitual thought patterns, which are strongly influenced by the prevailing messages of our culture. • Pause to witness the thoughts that arise in the mind as you practice—measuring, judging, comparing, and/ Though we know better, we may find ourselves unconsciously or commenting—then separate yourself from all of that trying to be or look good, comparing ourselves to others or activity and be that simple state of awareness. to some image we have, or judging our practice as good or bad by some unintentional standard. Along the same lines, • Affirmto yourself that you have done all that you need to we may think about our practice as something we do just do in this lifetime--even that you are ahead of schedule. for ourselves, limiting the way it can reveal and inspire our Now you can let go of needing to accomplish anything at connection to the consciousness we all share. It can become all and just enjoy doing what feels good. simply another way we try to acquire or achieve happiness. • Make your practice an offering, dedicating it to someone Instead, we can intentionally cultivate and teach approaches to you care about or someone needing healing. Feel that the practice that free us from past conditioning. We can experiment energy you generate by your practice is being sent out to with seeing our practice as a means to care for the body and and received by them. mind so we can serve well, as an honoring of the Spirit within, as a moving prayer, or simply as a way to still the mind. • Generate Peace in your heart and send it out to those around you or out into the world. To really practice being free is a challenging goal and one that is best pursued in a comprehensive way, addressing all the • Think of all those who love you, wish the best for you and levels of being, the way the Integral Yoga class is designed. pray for you to be free—receive that support into your We can guide our attention in various ways to cultivate a heart. neutral, non-reactive awareness, an open heart and a sense that this effort is in the service of the Divine. • Think of all the Yoga masters and saints that dedicated their lives to bring you spiritual teachings and receive with When we repeat such a practice and experience moments gratitude the Grace of those beings that is flowing to you. free of habitual thought patterns, we begin to see ourselves and our relationship to the world in a fresh way. We begin Any one or a combination of these ideas can be used during a to feel our connection to each other and all of nature. Over practice to disengage from the normal goal oriented attitudes time, a regular practice of this kind will gradually restructure that are so common in our culture and unconsciously impel even the subconscious mind so that we are no longer our actions. I encourage students to see what speaks to them compelled by old beliefs and fears, and approach life with most effectively and make a conscious choice to cultivate it in a sense of deep belonging, inner contentment and wonder. class and in their home practice. Feel free to modify and or use any of these ideas yourself. Here are some instructions I have offered to students when I teach, attempting to create this effect. I might use one or two Swami Ramananda is the Executive of these as a theme that I weave into the whole class. Director of the San Francisco Integral Yoga® Institute and has been teaching Yoga for • Have acute awareness of the physical level as it is, listening more than thirty-five years. He conducts for what the body needs to be balanced and easeful, Teacher Training Programs for Beginning, instead of imposing on it some idea of how it should be. Intermediate and Advanced Hatha Yoga, and Stress Management. Swami Ramananda • Cultivate a subtler energetic awareness by visualizing the teaches and lectures internationally and at breath moving throughout the body and/or visualizing Yoga Journal and Omega Institute national conferences. lines of energy that support movement without the use of muscular effort. Keep the breath smooth and steady Join Swami Ramananda at Yogaville for an upcoming program and see what feels free and soft even as effort is made. on June 27–July 6, 2014: Adapting Yoga for any Setting: Stress Management Teacher • Feel a sense of utter contentment with the body and the Training. See more at: http://www.yogaville.org/products/ present just as it is, free of any need to prove anything adapting-yoga-for-any-setting-stress-management-teacher- to anyone. training-2014/ IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 11 Yoga for Women Living with Breast Cancer By Rev. Manjula Spears

The benefits of Yoga for those living with cancer can help to aid in softening the experience of treatment and aftercare. I would like to share a little of my 18 years of experience working with this population. I have discovered the three elements needed to create a significant expression of healing are stress reduction, community, and addressing anatomical concerns.

I teach a class for breast cancer patients at the Loran Smith Center for Cancer Support at Athens Regional Medical Center in Athens, Georgia. This hospital-based facility serves 6,400 people a year with 65 percent of this population being breast cancer patients. We offer support groups, counseling, physical rehabilitation programs, and complementary therapies. Examples of those are therapeutic Yoga for breast cancer survivors, healing touch, Yoga for prostate cancer patients, reiki, tai chi, painting workshops, healing writing, a program to help patients quit smoking and “look-good-feel-better” where we provide wigs and hats for chemotherapy patients.

The entire facility is free to the public and is entirely funded by philanthropy.

I offer a weekly class for patients involved in all levels of diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.

The experience of cancer diagnosis and treatment is extremely stressful. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% to 80% of all visits to the doctor are from stress related illnesses. The cost of job stress alone in the U.S. is estimated at 300 billion dollars annually.

So we begin and end the class each week with a relaxation exercise. The relaxation achieved through the Yoga practices We use dynamic standing poses that coordinate awareness, promote the release of muscle tension and develop a breath and movement to help stimulate learning and repair more subtle control of the body/mind. Yoga reinforces in the brain. This also helps to recreate balance after and the experience of maintaining a basic “resting state” while during chemotherapy treatments (Dynamic Palm Tree). moving through daily activities. I teach an adapted Integral Yoga mind/body practice that uses awareness, breath, The shoulder series moves the shoulder joints through full movement, and relaxation to create rejuvenation and repair range of motion and stretches the front and back of the in order to bring all systems of the body into balance. shoulder girdle. These movements increase functional mobility and circulation of lymph post-breast surgery. They are After our initial relaxation, we continue with a period of also an aid when expanders are in place pre-reconstruction check-in and sharing, giving ample time for the members to and as stress busters for those who carry stress in the neck connect with each other, report joys or sorrows and introduce and shoulders. themselves to anyone new. This creation of connection, community and relationship is the real “heart” of our time The use of dynamic mild inversions adding arm movements together and is very important in the overall healing process. increase mobility of arms and shoulders and increase lymph flow supporting the immune system. (Dynamic Below is the basic practice (See graphic for an illustrated Bridge adding arms) example of the Shoulder Series). We practice modified backward bends that expand the We then warm up the spine by massaging the discs with entire front of the body (Camel pose supported with the gentle spinal flexion and extension and moving the joints and hands on the low back). We avoid prone positions due to muscles of the spine through ROM (Cat/Cow). surgical sites, ports, expanders, metastatic disease, etc.

IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 12 Then we use forward bends to stimulate the parasympathetic Some of the students are quoted as saying: response in the nervous system. (Support for knee joints and lumbar spine is recommended due to joint pain, a side effect “My initial expectations were purely physical - to increase my of some chemo drugs and to create more accessibility in range of motion after surgery and get some mild exercise general.) during chemo. What I received was very valuable information on how to manage cancer treatments and the myriad of Followed by a spinal twist that expands the chest and challenges that come with them. Information that only those stimulates health in the internal organs. who have experienced breast cancer or worked closely with those who have, can know. I felt emotionally supported, had The deep breathing that is encouraged throughout the a wealth of resources available to me at every class while practice improves oxygenation and improves the way the doing something healthy and healing for myself. It was a heart and lungs work together. great combination, as I was not inclined to attend a talking support group.” Ending with a final progressive relaxation exercise, followed by pranayama, (Deerga Swasam and Nadi Suddhi) and “I received the tools necessary to create a home practice. meditation. Creative visualization is an aid here as well. Doing yoga between the Monday classes helped increase the range of motion I was losing due to the normal aging *Note: some contraindications are–putting too much weight process and the accelerated aging from the various cancer on the arms too soon can increase the chances of lymph medications. So I started to recognize the overall health edema; prone positions can be uncomfortable for post- benefits, not just those related to the acute cancer treatments surgery patients, those in treatment with ports, those with when I started.” expanders in place and patients with metastatic disease. Modifications can be made for all the above movements to “It became a spiritual practice, giving me a time and place suit each individual. to turn inward. Doing that silently with other women who all share the same cancer experience is powerful. Female voices The peripheral practices change depending on the needs of raised together in chant – so uncomfortable and weird at first the student. Recently the side-effects of the newer aromatase —now feed my spirit.” inhibiters created more joint pain and so we often use some form of structural Yoga therapy joint freeing series to “I became much more in touch with my body. I can sense maintain strength and range of motion in the synovial joints. stress and anxiety when they first start to build and can focus There are ladies who started with very little mobility and have on that part of my body through breathing and muscle lost even more during treatment so they practice seated in a relaxation.” chair or some form of modification including a chair and the floor. To meet every person’s needs is a challenge that keeps In conclusion, I can say teaching this class has been for it fresh and creative for me. me an experience of continued growth, both personal and professional. When people are released from close medical observation after months, sometimes years of treatment there is a The women in this class are an inspiration in more ways than sense of loss of control as though no one is watching out I can name here. They show me the strength of the human for their health. Meeting weekly at a hospital with other spirit. They remind me to appreciate each moment as a women to do a practice that improves the way they feel precious moment. They are a source of powerful community and function gives a sense of self-efficacy. Not only does the support for one another and for me. body get stronger but there is a feeling of empowerment through doing something proactive for themselves and Rev. Manjula Spears, E-RYT 500 has their health. This historically leads to the addition of other been a principal trainer for Integral Yoga’s overall healthful changes. Most commonly reported are Teacher Training Programs for many a daily practice often with the addition of meditation and years. She has a deep interest and dietary changes, and the recognition of stress and anxiety extensive training in Yoga therapeutics. when it first arises which makes prevention possible through Rev. Manjula is a long-time student of the use of breath awareness and movement. There are . She studies and teaches countless others including increased mobility, decreased sound as healing and is a gifted kirtanist. She is an pain, improved digestions and elimination, better sleep, accomplished instructor in the field of Yoga therapy and decreased medication such as antidepressants, and a sense is the founder of the Therapeutic Yoga program at of overall well-being and connectedness. Athens Regional Medical Center Mind/Body Institute, specializing in restoration of functional mobility, reduction The use of the Integral Yoga practice along with focus on of musculoskeletal pain and joint health. You can order stress reduction and the support of community together her DVD, A Yoga Plan for Breast Cancer Survivors, from create an environment that over time becomes a significant Integral Yoga Book Distribution: 800-262-1008, or on the expression of healing. web at: [email protected]

IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 13 The LOTUS and The Promise By Christine Brahmi Romero

“Truth is One, Paths are Many.” The words on the gate to the brought to the New World as slaves in 1620 were Muslim. LOTUS shrine leapt out at me on my first visit to Satchidananda The talk was presented on June 7th, a day that in Islam Ashram in 2002. I was seeking to transition from my fulfilling commemorates the migration of Muslims from Mecca, where yet hectic life in the creative arts as a filmmaker, to a life in Muslims were being persecuted, to Medina, where they the healing arts as a Yoga teacher. The spiritual and inclusive could practice full freedom of the faith alongside Christians, teachings of Swami Satchidananda were an inspiration. Jews and people of other religions. During the talk, Dr. Syeed endeared himself to the Yogaville community with his good Years later, that saying became the muse for Besa: The humor and kindness. After Dr. Syeed’s talk, an Integral Yoga Promise, a documentary on the rescue of Jews in Albania Interfaith Prayers service was held with the Muslim prayers during WWII. The majority Muslim population, together led by Dr. Syeed’s nine-year-old granddaughter, Zahara. with Orthodox and Catholic Albanians, gave their sacred promise—their besa—to protect their Jewish guests. The The next morning, an Interfaith Panel “Contributing to film premiered at the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival Interfaith Understanding” was held in Bhavan, in 2012. Its second screening was at the Islamic Society moderated by Swami Sarvaananda. Each of the guest of North America Film Festival. It was through ISNA that I presenters spoke eloquently on what spirituality means in came to know Dr. Sayyid Syeed, the National Director and their tradition, and how this connects us all. head of the Office of Interfaith & Community Alliances in Washington, DC. During noon meditation, the Syeed family visited the LOTUS and were immediately drawn to the collection of items So it was that my two worlds of filmmaking and Yoga came representing Islam. They walked with their grandchildren to together when Swami Dayananda, the Ashram’s Director of each of the cabinets holding items from the various traditions. the LCAF, called and asked me to serve at a special interfaith program at Satchidananda Ashram. The esteemed presenters An afternoon tea at the home of Swami Dayananda’s included Dr. Syeed, the National Director of Islamic Society mother, Yaeko, brought the presenters, guests, Swamis and of North America; Ramesh Rao of the Hindu American community members together in an informal setting for Foundation; Heena Reiter, a rabbinic pastor student; Rev. conversation. Dr. Syeed’s granddaughter, Zahara, brought Mother Carolyn Craft, PhD, an Episcopal priest; Rabbi Rami her drawing book and had much to share with Yaeko, an Shapiro and Swami Gurucharanananda (Mataji). Swami accomplished artist. Zahara also led the group in an Arabic Murugananda hosted events in Vidya Bhavan, the beautifully song, leading to a round of singing in different languages and renovated Ashram Library. traditions by the guests.

As an Integral Yoga teacher, it was a great honor to be asked The program events continued to build on the theme of to serve. LCAF staff from the Yogaville community, led by Understanding. At the Saturday evening Satsang in Sivananda Amaleshwari Forga, made everything so welcoming for the Hall, the Syeeds were very pleased during the opening Syeeds and other honored guests. Jackie Burns, an Integral to hear the verse “Allaah Allaah Allaahu Akbar, Allaah Allaah Yoga teacher and Jane Materna both served as Karma Allaahu Almighty,” on behalf of Islam which is one of the for the program. My job was to host Dr. and Mrs. Syeed, many traditions represented during the Interfaith Chanting. along with their two grandchildren, and convey them to the various weekend events. I also located space for the Syeed After a video clip of Swami Satchidananda speaking on family to practice Salat, their obligatory prayer times, and to Interfaith Understanding, Dr. Syeed gave the perform the ritual washing, wudhu. talk on “Core Teachings of Islam & Their Relevance in a Pluralist Democratic Environment.” Dr. Syeed began by The observance of Salat is the second of the five pillars of Islam: telling the Yogaville community that he and Mrs. Syeed had belief, worship, charitable giving, fasting during Ramadan, and twin sons, whom they named Moses and Jesus. Again, his pilgrimage to Mecca. Practiced five times a day by millions wisdom and humor shone in his informative talk about the of Muslims around the world, their observance meshed with harmony, beauty and Islamic principles of compassion in a the rhythm of the Ashram environment and the practice faith that is little understood in today’s America. At the end of thrice daily meditation. Like the practice of Yoga, Salat of the program, Dr. Syeed gave each person at the Satsang involves uniting body, mind and spirit in a set of movements a copy of the book My Mercy Encompasses All: The Koran’s coordinated with prayer. Everyday concerns are put aside so Teachings on Compassion, Peace and Love. the right frame of mind is present before beginning, just as in Yoga we center before beginning our practice. The Syeed’s visit ended with a trip to Kailash to take in a view of the LOTUS temple. I held up four-year old Ali for a better The LCAF program began with a Friday evening talk on Islam look as Swami Dayananda explained the Nataraj shrine, and by Dr. Syeed, who brilliantly consolidated 400 years of Islam how Lord Siva dances atop a demon. “That’s the ego,” Ali in America into an hour. Yes, 400 years – the first Africans said, channeling the wisdom of his grandfather. IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 14 Dr. Syeed wrote me recently, “We are still celebrating the Call unto the way of the Lord with wisdom and beautiful unique Yogaville experience and our grandchildren have exhortation, and hold discourse with them [the People of many anecdotes and memorabilia from last week’s visit. We The Book, Christians and Jews] in the finest manner. hope we will have more opportunities to exchange visits and —The Holy Koran 16:125 continue to follow up what we began in Yogaville.”

Serving the Ashram on this weekend was a joy. Not only was it an opportunity to visit the Ashram for a peaceful and uplifting weekend away from everyday life in DC, but I got to know Swamis and members of the Yogaville community in a much more informal way than in the previous ten years of attending trainings and programs. Throughout my service, the reward was great for being part of such a well thought out program. I highly recommend to fellow IY teachers serving the LOTUS Center for All Faiths. For information on opportunities to serve with the LCAF, contact Swami Dayananda at [email protected]. Aparigraha: Taking an Inventory By Madhavan Mark Wolz

Standing in tadasana, we have only ourselves. All our stuff is Lower your knees, chest and chin to the floor, keeping your at a remove. This creates an excellent opportunity for each pelvis slightly raised. Think of all the things you lift with your of us to review what we own, how much or how little, and muscles and move from one place to another during your assess what it means to us. day. Think of all the things you keep in bins and boxes and chests. Are there any you could easily lose? Aparigraha is the fifth of the five yama, or restraints. It is translated as non-greed. Aparigraha invites us to observe where Lower the pelvis, slide the chin forward and come into an easy there is excess in what we have or what we want to have. cobra pose. Take note of the makeup you wear, the perfume, any tattoos or piercings you have. How do you handle your Stand in tadasana, adjust your posture and bring your time: Are you stingy or generous with your time? Do you want awareness to your breath, letting it flow easily and naturally. someone else’s time and attention? As you reach the chest Allow yourself to stand here just as you are. Bring your palms forward and lift it up, let all your nerves lengthen and relax. Do together in front of your chest. Think of the adornments and you spend more or less than you wish on your appearance? jewelry you wear close to your skin: on your fingers, around Are you extravagant with treats for your mind — books, films, your wrists, around your neck, on your ears. Do you have an performances? Conversely, do you feel deprived? excess of any of these things? Reach your arms forward, bring them up toward the ceiling, arch back easily in the upper spine. Come to downward dog again. Take a mental inventory of Bring to mind the clothes that go over your arms, around your your jackets, vests and coats. Reflect on your social activities back, across your chest. Think of sweaters and shirts you have — any indulgences? Any things you believe you need more of? in closets and drawers. Do you have duplicates? Slowly lower your knees to the floor and come into child pose.

Fold forward into uttanasana as you think of everything you As you perform this mental inventory you might remember wear on your head, around your waist, over your ankles. Do habits from an earlier time. Some tendencies might come you have any of these things in excess? How about food — is from your family. You may notice mere tendencies; you there a type of food you just can’t get enough of? Check on may identify mild or even strong compulsions. If you’ve your breath and let it be easy. noted nothing that’s large in your life, then allow yourself to imagine having or doing something to excess. If you find Palms on the floor, step your left foot far back and bring imagining such things to be difficult, think of a character in your left knee to the floor as your right leg stays forward in a story or a movie who suffers from having too much or is a lunge. Review clothing you wear over your legs or wrap greedy or jealous and simply review that story. around your hips. Do you have more than you need? A lot more? Do you want more? Step your right leg back and lift Lift yourself up to downward dog again. Think of all the things your hips into adho muka svanasana. Think of the things you you own that are heavier than your bones. Draw your hips carry on your back or over your shoulder. Relax your neck. away from your wrists as you lengthen along the backs of Think of the clothing you wear to work. How do you feel your legs and stretch the heels toward the floor. Review your about having these items? Do they make you more who you interest in sports, hobbies and entertainment. Do you detect are or less somehow? any excess, or perhaps dissatisfaction with what you do have?. IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 15 Step your left foot forward into a lunge. Bring to mind all of Lift your torso to sit on your heels or with legs crossed. Close your shoes and weigh their importance to you. Step your your eyes and envision yourself letting go of the element right foot forward to meet the left foot, straighten your in your life that you are examining. Start by deciding on an legs and let your arms hang toward the floor in uttanasana. optimal situation. How many or how much will you keep? Consider all your possessions that are too big for you to lift Decide on what you’re releasing and what you’re keeping. and carry—car, boat, furniture, house … Are you satisfied? Reach your arms to the left as you visualize yourself releasing something. Reach your arms to the right as you visualize Sweep your arms to the side as you raise yourself all the what you’re keeping. way up, reaching the arms toward the sky and arching back slightly. Think of your aspirations, your desires, your wishes, In this simple exercise we are combining the familiar and ask yourself if they bear a touch of extravagance or movements and positions of the sun salutation with the jealousy or possessiveness. Do you compare yourself to mental task of reviewing elements of our daily life that are at others? Bring your palms together in front of your chest and once familiar and forgotten. Physical and mental are working stand quietly for a moment. together to heighten awareness of the self.

Come to child pose. Take five slow, full breaths as you allow Most of us are aware of the larger moments when we’ve felt yourself to review the objects and activities and desires that ourselves in the grip of greed or jealousy, and we recognize came to your mind during this sun salutation. Choose one the weight of such compulsions. Here we approach aparigraha element of your life that you tend to have or want to have as a study of ever more subtle experiences of excess, often at in excess. Picture yourself wearing or holding or doing the the level of light habit or simple tendency in our daily life. thing you’ve chosen. Can you remember when you began feeling the need for this thing? Madhavan Mark Wolz, RYT 500 teaches Hatha Yoga and meditation in New York Walk your hands to the left. Can you sense any deeper need City and is also a Yoga therapist and a Thai underlying this felt need that you have chosen to examine? Yoga massage therapist. He encourages Ask yourself who it is that wants this thing so strongly. students and clients to integrate body, mind and spirit in their practice of Yoga Return to center; walk the hands to the right. Take a moment and in their daily life. Mark holds a B.S. in to be with the sense of not having enough, of being without. psychology and an M.A. in anthropology and Southeast Asian Can you identify a deeper need or an insecurity underlying studies and is a certified astrologer. this feeling? Join Madhavan for a workshop, Applying Yoga to Daily Life: Walk your hands back to center. Who are you if your felt The Five Yama, November 1 – 3, 2013 in Yogaville. Contact need for the thing you’ve chosen is not fulfilled? Can you Ashram Reservations Center: 800-858-9642, or go to: http:// find a way to connect with your sense of self in the absence www.yogaville.org/products/applying-yoga-to-daily-life-the- of this thing? five-yama/# for registration.

Sharing of the value of the winter discount program (available for IYTA members and their students)

By Phyllis Uma Jobes RYT, LPN

Last fall I had the opportunity to spend a month in the LYT was beyond my organizational skills, but after a few emails with program at Yogaville. While there I was reminded of the Michael Smith and Chitra in Group Services, I could see that winter discount program available for IYTA members and they would help me coordinate every little detail of our retreat. their students. Since my teacher training in 2000, I’ve been talking to my students about what a wonderful experience my Our group was met by ashram staff as they arrived in separate month-long stay at Yogaville had been and how the teachings cars at different times during Friday afternoon. Registration of Swami Satchidananda have influenced my life, my classes and settling into their rooms went smoothly. After dinner we and even those around me. I realized this would be the perfect received what we all felt was special attention in an Ashram opportunity to invite my students to see just what it is that I feel tour with detailed information from Michael about Kailash, is so special about the Ashram and my spiritual community. LOTUS and Swami Satchidananda. The assistance from Michael and Group Services was so efficient the rest of the When I first sent out the announcement that I would be weekend that I was able to relax and enjoy time with my organizing a March weekend retreat I was hoping for six students/friends in hatha classes, meditation and long walks. participants so that we would be eligible for the 15% discount. The response was surprising and almost a little overwhelming. The group was very pleased with all aspects of the retreat Twenty-three people said, “Yes, please reserve my space.” and have been asking when we’ll do this again. Some are making us eligible for the 40% discount and a room for me in planning trips there on their own for workshops. We’re all Lotus Guest Houses. At first I was concerned that this number looking forward to our next visit. IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 16 IYTA News Column dear little ego By Brahmi Milliman By Swami Ramananda

This quarter I have been working on adding new benefits are you not tired of this treasure hunt, for IYTA members. Both the San Francisco and New York no gold at the end of the rainbow Integral Yoga Institutes have agreed to offer a 10% discount and no end on programs and a 5% discount on teacher trainings taken at their locations. These are the same discounts we currently your story is a dark cloud offer members for trainings and workshops at Yogaville. it blocks the light but has no substance As you may know, we currently partner with Swadeshi Yoga and goes as the wind blows to offer you a 25% discount on their clothing and other you think you’re in charge-- products. And now I am excited to announce that we are partnering with Jala Clothing at www.jalaclothing.com to you don’t even decide when to breathe, offer you a 20% discount on their clothing and products. that effort makes you weak I am also looking into other companies and will announce new benefits as they become available. a personal gravity holding you down though your mirror is broken Now available on the website at www.iyta.org, under the Members Only, Newsletter Archive area, I have added back your vision blurred, issues of the IYTA Newsletter from 1993-1999. There will when you surrender and your little sun sets also be a Table of Contents for all issues; so that you can a sky of stars appears inside and around you easily browse for the articles you want to read. you have heard this song, Also new this quarter, I am posting selected IYTA Newsletter a full moon of white sound that makes you weep-- articles to the Yogaville blog at www.Yogaville.org. These make that your prayer enhanced articles include color images, and serve as you felt a rose open an adjunct to, rather than as a replacement for the full newsletter. I will announce these on our Facebook page as where a world of flowers raise their heads— they are published. that is your true purpose

Enjoy fresh air and a serene country setting. Summer/Fall 2013 Programs Transforming Lives

Awakening to Kindness Nawang Khechog Sept. 6–8 Ashtanga Yoga—Inside and Out: Immersion Into the Practice & Flow of Ashtanga Yoga David Swenson Sept. 13–15 Yoga for the Pelvic Floor: Nawang Khechog Demystifying “Down There” Leslie Howard Sept. 20-22 Yoga and Ohashi Method Ohashi Oct. 11-13 Let Your Yoga Dance® Weekend: Healing Through Joy Megha Oct. 18-20 Yoga for Women Who Do Too Much Dawn Summers David Swenson Oct. 18-20 Ohashi

1-800-858-9642 [email protected] www.yogaville.org IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 17 Integral Yoga Senior Speakers’ Schedules

Please contact local representatives for times, costs, pre-enrollment requirements, schedule changes, etc. Swami Asokananda Contact Aug.11–Sept. 1 Advanced Teacher Training [email protected] at Yogaville 800-858-9642 Sep. 6–8 Programs Padmi Habib in Boulder, CO [email protected] Sep. 22–30 Programs Faini in Italy [email protected] Oct. 1–3 Programs Jackie Kleefield in Stockholm [email protected] Oct. 4–6 Programs Anna McColl in London [email protected] Swami Ramananda Aug 8–13 Satsang and various programs Samra: [email protected] Integral Yoga Center, Buenos Aires, Argentina [email protected] or Aug 15–18 Satsang and various programs Atman Vieira Centro de Yoga Integral, Lavras, Brazil [email protected] Aug 19–29 Satsang and various programs Contact in SF IYI: [email protected] In Brazil 415-821-111 Aug 29–Sept 8 Raja Yoga Teacher Training Part I [email protected] Centro de Yoga Integral—Jai Vida, Belo Horizonte, Brazil Sept 23–Nov 13 Meditation Teacher Training [email protected] Integral Yoga Institute, San Francisco 415-821-111 Swami Karunananda Aug. 9–18 Silent Retreat [email protected] at Yogaville 800-858-9642 Sep. 7 Master Sivananda Jayanthi Satsang at Yogaville Oct. 9–21 Meditation Teacher Training [email protected] at the San Francisco IYI 415-821-1117 Oct. 10 & 17 Workshops at the San Francisco IYI Oct. 12–13 Meditation intensive at the San Francisco IYI Oct. 23–º28 Programs Swami Karunananda in Santa Barbara, CA [email protected] Greenstone Oct. 20–Nov. 17 Basic Hatha Yoga Teacher Training [email protected] at Yogaville 800-858-9642 Nov. 29–Dec. 1 Restorative Yoga Workshop [email protected] at Yogaville 800-858-9642 IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 18 Upcoming August–October 2013 Programs at Yogaville August 2–4 Mindfulness Meditation and Yoga for Healing the Body and Mind with Rev. M. Mala Cunningham, Ph.D. 2–4 Yoga Chikitsa: Yoga Therapy—Alignment as Enlightenment with Gabriel Halpern 4–8 Yoga for Arthritis Teachers Intensive with Steffany Moonaz, Ph.D. 7–10 Yoga for Arthritis Teachers’ Refresher Course with Steffany Moonaz, Ph.D. 9–18 Integral Yoga Ten–Day Silent Retreat: Embark on the Inner Journey — Uncover Your Greatest Potential with Rev. Lakshmi Barsel, Ph.D., Retreat Director 11–Sept. 1 Advanced Hatha Yoga Teacher Training with Swami Asokananda, e-RYT 500 and Dijon Carew, e-RYT 500 17 Mahasamadhi Memorial 23 Sept. 1 Yoga of the Heart®—Cardiac and Cancer Certification Coursewith Nischala Joy & Bhaskar 23–25 Laugha Yoga® Leader Certification Programwith Bharata Wingham 23–25 Yoga Couples Retreat: Create Healthy Relationships by Engaging Life, Connectedness and Love with Revs. and Bhavani Metro 30–Sept. 2 Joy of Health Through Yoga Retreat with Amrita Sandra McLanahan, M.D. & Sumati Steinberg, R.N. 30–Sept. 2 Recapturing the Treasures Of Your Life: Labor Day Taoist Retreat with Paul Olko

September 6–8 Yoga Asanas for the Core: Understanding Core Stability with Letícia Padmasri, M.A., RYT 500 6–8 Awakening to Kindness with Nawang Khechog 7 Master Sivananda Jayanthi 8–15 Yoga Vacation at the Outer Banks with Narayani Laine, RYT 200, Chitra McDevitt, RYT 500 and Rev. Vidya Vonne, e-RYT 500 10–13 Special Interest Retreat: Healthy Lifestyle Retreat 13–15 Ashtanga Yoga—Inside and Out: Immersion Into the Practice and Flow of Ashtanga Yoga with David Swenson 15–29 Split Basic Hatha Yoga Teacher Training—Part 1 with Swami Dayananda & Ram Wiener, RYT 500 20–22 Yoga for the Pelvic Floor: Demystifying “Down There” with Leslie Howard 20–22 Basic Meditation with Swami Gurucharanananda (Mataji) 20–27 Yoga for the Special Child®, L.L.C., with Sivakami Sonia Sumar 26–29 Kirtan College: A Weekend Intensive with David Newman ( Das) & Mira 27–29 Life Coaching and Yoga—Upgrade Your Story with Kamala Waltman 29–Oct. 6 The Yoga of Recovery Certificate Course for Counselors & Teacherswith Durga Leela, RYT 500

October 1–4 Special Interest Retreat: Restorative Retreat for Seniors 3–6 Fall Silent Retreat: Discover the Joy Within with Rev. Prakasha Shakti Capen, Retreat Director 11–13 Yoga and the Ohashi Method™ with Ohashi 11–13 Creating the Work You Love with Rick Jarow, Ph.D. 18–20 Let Your Yoga Dance® Weekend: Healing Through Joy with Megha 18–20 Yoga for Women Who Do Too Much Retreat with Dawn Summers 20–Nov. 17 Basic Hatha Yoga Teacher Training with Satya Greenstone, e-RYT 500 25-27 Transforming Stress into Awakened Living with Julie Lusk, M.Ed., e-RYT 500 25-27 Introduction to Zero Balancing with Tahira Haroon IYTA Newsletter • August 2013 • Page 19 ® U.S. Postage Integral Yoga Teachers Association PAID 108 Yogaville Way Permit No. 3 Buckingham, VA 23921 Nonprofit Organization Dillwyn, VA RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED 23936