Here’s what one participant said of yesterday’s class – Wring Out 2008!

“I love the call!  I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it.  I felt like I wanted to spend much more time on the different portions of the exercise.  So, today, I’m going to go through it all again, be more present and go slow where I feel the need and fast otherwise.  It was really cool to hear what others had to say.  I’m Really looking forward to the next conference call.  Thank you so much!”

Did you participate in Wring Out 2008?  During the tele-class there was limited time for sharing, so here is your opportunity! 

What are you most relieved about leaving behind from 2008?  How are you changed by the experience of forgiving, accepting and releasing?  What insights or lessons will you carry forward into the New Year?  Be the Change!  What are you celebrating about 2008?

“On this path no effort is ever wasted,
no gain is ever reversed;
even a little of this practice will shelter you from great sorrow.”
- Krishna counsels Arjuna in the “Song of the Blessed One” (Bhagavad-Gita 2.40, translated by Stephen Mitchell)

The wisdom of these words sinks into my heart as I reflect on the past year. It is indeed comforting to remember that no effort is wasted, that even when it does not seem so, I remain on the path of growth and evolution.

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This week, my inspiration comes from all of the solicitations for donations I’ve received in the mail.  One organization that called to me was Women for Women, helping women survivors of war rebuild their lives.   I’ve decided to sponsor a woman for just $27/month and I invite you to do the same.  I feel so grateful to be able to reach around the planet to extend a hand of friendship.  If an ongoing contribution isn’t possible for you, consider a smaller donation.  Together, we make a difference!  100 people giving just $5 each makes a $500 donation! 

What are your intentions for actions to make a difference this week?  How will you be the change?

The time between Thanksgiving and New Years can be a whirlwind of activity, when shopping trips take three times as long as usual and every joyful cookie exchange means an extra hour or two in the kitchen.  Mindfully choosing your activities can keep you grounded in the moment, but to truly enjoy the holiday (or any) season, you also need to create space for…nothing.  When was the last time you turned off the television, turned off the list making in your brain, and simply sat on your couch?

I invite you to think about Mindful InActivity.  Taking time to be quiet, to reflect and recharge, will deepen your enjoyment of the season and your contribution to those around you.  It will also help you enter the New Year with a fresh perspective and clear vision of things to come.  What does it really look like, this mythical quiet time during the holiday season?

Read more of Mindful Holidays, Part II

Did you ever try to remember details about past holidays and find that they all blur together?   When I noticed this, I realized it was partly because my family celebrated exactly the same way every year.   More importantly, I recognized my tendency to become less mindful as I got caught up in the busyness and activities of the season.  I seemed to go into ‘auto-pilot’ mode where I let myself be swept away by the tide of traditions and family expectations.  

That’s when I decided to be more mindful and create something uniquely memorable about each holiday.  To do this, I needed to SLOW DOWN so that I could consciously consider and wisely select each holiday activity.  And I needed to remember to be more fully present for each activity that was so carefully chosen.  This process of Mindful Holidays, the conscious choice of activities and participation in my own unique way, was quite liberating. With mindfulness, I am less concerned about appearances, judgments or expectations.  Not only have the holidays become more memorable, but they’ve also become a lot more fun.

Read more of Mindful Holidays, Part I