Where does one begin...
The flight from Vienna?
I was deeply engaged with the head of a german woman... Let me explain! Her hair was arranged in such an interesting manner that is reminded me so very much of a fluffy whipping cream. I cannot tell you how fascinated I was with this act of artistry!
Ok, so a long and rather uneventful flight to Delhi... Not that I needed it to be eventful as I appreciated the calm before the storm so to speak.
The airport is being redone and the business of coming through customs gave time to take in the nets hanging from the ceiling, the rubble off to the side and the consistent haze in the air with a layer of dust/dirt coating everything...
I had time to change money while waiting for my pickup and then I found the slender Indian gentleman sent to collect me.
I walk outside to the thick presence of sandalwood incense in the air and the air is quite cool. 'A bit of a walk madam', he prefaced the journey out among the crowds and the parked vand, old cars, firepits with small crowds warning hands and drinking tea, all seeming to have its own efficient purpose and direction ... and yet, directionless... Exit the parking lot into on coming traffic woke me even more!
Ah, the car is in sight amongst the hundreds... My side, the left passenger side, appears to have a 'history'. I'm sure that concaved door was straight when it was purchased!
Everything is in and we are off around and beside the mounds of rubble from 'construction' (which appears to be everywhere) and the odd blanket covered body that steps out from the bush into the roadside.
Horns seem to have many various purposes - 'move out of the way!', 'I'm here', 'hello!', 'watch it', and really just for the fun of it. There seems to be a synphony playing everywhere with levels of pitch, intensity and length improvising a song!
It wasn't long before a sale of a visit to Rajisthan arrived in the minimial conversation. 'You take my number for deive but it secret for us. Promise, no tell boss. I trust you... and so on...' I tried to change the conversation and ensured that I would 'think about it'.
I was told, I have read, I have experienced the stray dogs before in Asia but nothing can ever really prepare you for the experience of seeing them everywhere... Near the street vendors they patiently wait for any generosity, between the streets among the bushes they sleep, amongst the crowd of the streets with the lotus eyed cows they meander and search for what appears to be unsearchable...and everywhere there lingers the scent of 'survival'...for everyone.
Arrival at the hostel/hotel would be a surprise for everyone and included a call to the shopkeeper. I was at a different place then had thought I had confirmed. After the shock wore off and I confirmed that the place would do with no visible 4 legged friends I tried my best, fully clothed, to settle into my sleeping bag for a few hours sleep as the shopkeeper was to meet me in the morning to confirm if indeed there was an error. It was 1am and I had been up since 4am when leaving Salzburg. My body so desired to surrender...
Knock, knock, knock on the fragile door at 930am woke me but not from any deep, luxorious slumber so I attempted to gather myself...
Tea and toast out in the sun on the patio rooftop with the shopkeeper Ringo confirmed that I was in the right place and errored in MY communications with two different people. I can handle this for 2 nights though. It kindo reminds me of the shacks I stayed in while in the Everest Region of Nepal many years ago...
Ringo is a certified tourism guide and has helped to secure my train tickets south to Chennai where I will head off to next.
There is a young Nepalese boy, probably 11 or 12 years, that has been somewhat assigned to me for help in coming here to the 'Cyber Cafe' and so forth. A few rupees in his pocket is worth the companionship and assistance to a lone foreign woman.
Well, it is 150pm and I am hungry... perhaps time for some chapati and tea...
Satisfied that craving and on to pick up a few things in Connaught Place. I am then advised that the better quality, hand loomed items that serve the test of time are found elsewhere. Clothing in the market is relatively inexpensive but quality does not appear.
Abdul, cousin of Ringo's, takes me to a shop where I buy a few proper, modest outfits for the ashram's and visits around. I also managed to deal a good price on a sari for more special occasions. They are creating it as ready to wear sari with hooks and pleating 'all in the right places for us western girl's' and they shall deliver it to my little room tomorrow afternoon. It was not my intention to buy so much but the understanding that the south will be more expensive with less selection pleased me (and I hope Chris too!). Helen, the very successful (obviously if she works her magic on others as on me!), said, 'Don't worry madam, as soon as he lays eyes on you in that sari he will ask for my address to have 5 more sent to you! I will give you my number for him to make easy the request!'. HAHA.....I hope you're right Helen!
Almost 830pm and I am tired... All my love and blessings to you all...
Om
Jennifer
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Ready, Set, Go.....
Sooooo it's my last day in Salzburg for awhile folks!
I went to bed early last night (8pm) so as to awake by 4 and head out to the train station by 5am. Mission - buy a calling card and call my beloved and my family. An easy task non? English anyone...anyone...anyone? Ok so I got the cash from the bank machine, I bought the card from the very, sign language only, distressed shop lady and attempted (many, many times) to complete a very simple task of making a phone call. Ah, 'no good, no English'. Help from a couple of people and and an hour trying any configuration on that damn card still lead nooooo where so off back to the hostel I went.
The sight of an angel sitting behind the desk! It appears that the wrong country code was being used as the operator at the train station assured me that I was to use 0032 instead of 001. I can handle that....at least I didn't lose the 12€!
I made a quick call to my momma and since everyone else is asleep I shall call later today. My sister has her first appointment with the doctor today checking on the babe due in August!
The morning after breakfast was spent doing some paperwork and resting. I headed out for a bit of lunch and a stroll picking up a few things for the journey tomorrow.
I look forward to connecting this evening with my family and my beloved Chris. Packing and organizing everything will also be done as my flight tomorrow is rather early at 830am via Vienna to Delhi.
One moment at a time of course but I must admit that the dream has become a reality and in my heart I feel my spirit sing gratitude for this blessing, this adventure and the journey of a life unfolding....
All my love
Ciao
Jennifer
I went to bed early last night (8pm) so as to awake by 4 and head out to the train station by 5am. Mission - buy a calling card and call my beloved and my family. An easy task non? English anyone...anyone...anyone? Ok so I got the cash from the bank machine, I bought the card from the very, sign language only, distressed shop lady and attempted (many, many times) to complete a very simple task of making a phone call. Ah, 'no good, no English'. Help from a couple of people and and an hour trying any configuration on that damn card still lead nooooo where so off back to the hostel I went.
The sight of an angel sitting behind the desk! It appears that the wrong country code was being used as the operator at the train station assured me that I was to use 0032 instead of 001. I can handle that....at least I didn't lose the 12€!
I made a quick call to my momma and since everyone else is asleep I shall call later today. My sister has her first appointment with the doctor today checking on the babe due in August!
The morning after breakfast was spent doing some paperwork and resting. I headed out for a bit of lunch and a stroll picking up a few things for the journey tomorrow.
I look forward to connecting this evening with my family and my beloved Chris. Packing and organizing everything will also be done as my flight tomorrow is rather early at 830am via Vienna to Delhi.
One moment at a time of course but I must admit that the dream has become a reality and in my heart I feel my spirit sing gratitude for this blessing, this adventure and the journey of a life unfolding....
All my love
Ciao
Jennifer
Joannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart...and stuff
A glorious sunny day was welcomed after the rain, the cold and the fact that I don't really have proper winter clothes with me!
After a leisurely breakfast with Ann and Pam we parted ways for now as they headed out for home, Ann to Scotland and Pam back to Sussex (with eyes open I hope!!!). That's an inside joke folks so you need not scratch your head about it!
I rested for the better part of the morning and then made my way out to stretch the limbs along the cobble stone streets of the Old City. It took awhile to find a place to lunch and even though I was terribly hungry it was still very hard to adjust to the fact that smoking is allowed in restaurants. The table I selected was far, far away from everyone but a couple of gentlemen were soon to plop down beside me and lit up as the first course was served. MMMMMM, delicious... that fresh, Marlboro taste with extra butter please! I still have not, and probably won't adjust to this... How in the hell did I waitress all those YEARS in bars and clubs where everyone smoked is beyond me!
So, after I finished my cigar sandwich I decided to check out Mozart's birthplace and residence museums. It was as charming and thought provoking as I had thought it would be. Of course, the thought of seeing it with Chris arose only to be shaken off with a laugh since I'm sure he would be waiting for me at the pastry shop outside fiddling with his camera and sooooo just wanting me to, 'Take your time and enjoy yourself'... A second piece of strudel and cafe' would be the key point here...
Salzburg is a beautiful city... views from the river take in the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress. It commands such a present.
The streets in the Old City beckon for one to 'remember' and for me it is not hard to get lost in the history which seems to whisper from each nook and crainy. The stories themselves seem to speak to you with the baroque architecture, religious monuments and precious detail in every door, every placement of stone which has carried the weight, the secrets, of times we can only imagine...
It was a busy day flowered with divine moments and strolls along the river. Time to rest as tomorrow I have some other things to prepare for.
Be well
Love and blessings
Jennifer
After a leisurely breakfast with Ann and Pam we parted ways for now as they headed out for home, Ann to Scotland and Pam back to Sussex (with eyes open I hope!!!). That's an inside joke folks so you need not scratch your head about it!
I rested for the better part of the morning and then made my way out to stretch the limbs along the cobble stone streets of the Old City. It took awhile to find a place to lunch and even though I was terribly hungry it was still very hard to adjust to the fact that smoking is allowed in restaurants. The table I selected was far, far away from everyone but a couple of gentlemen were soon to plop down beside me and lit up as the first course was served. MMMMMM, delicious... that fresh, Marlboro taste with extra butter please! I still have not, and probably won't adjust to this... How in the hell did I waitress all those YEARS in bars and clubs where everyone smoked is beyond me!
So, after I finished my cigar sandwich I decided to check out Mozart's birthplace and residence museums. It was as charming and thought provoking as I had thought it would be. Of course, the thought of seeing it with Chris arose only to be shaken off with a laugh since I'm sure he would be waiting for me at the pastry shop outside fiddling with his camera and sooooo just wanting me to, 'Take your time and enjoy yourself'... A second piece of strudel and cafe' would be the key point here...
Salzburg is a beautiful city... views from the river take in the majestic Hohensalzburg Fortress. It commands such a present.
The streets in the Old City beckon for one to 'remember' and for me it is not hard to get lost in the history which seems to whisper from each nook and crainy. The stories themselves seem to speak to you with the baroque architecture, religious monuments and precious detail in every door, every placement of stone which has carried the weight, the secrets, of times we can only imagine...
It was a busy day flowered with divine moments and strolls along the river. Time to rest as tomorrow I have some other things to prepare for.
Be well
Love and blessings
Jennifer
Monday, January 28, 2008
Goodbye Piesendorf...Hello Salzburg!
And so we closed the seminar with questions, discussion and with that we convened for lunch ... Lot of hugs goodbye and gathering of luggage with groups settling in for departures in various directions.
I was to head to the glorious Salzburg for my two days of transition before I am off to Delhi via Vienna. 130pm was our pickup time and so through the rain we were off for the hour and a bit of the drive. Dropped our bags at the hostel and took a taxi to the Old City. There is a delightful chocolate shop, 'Devan', in the central square where we devoured decadent cakes and tea ... a lovely beginning to the afternoon.
Leisurely wondering the cobble streets, lights abound, sounds and baroque style buildings entertained above with the secrecy of history whispering around us... I think I could hear Mozart himself composing!
After enjoying dinner Cilla settled off to the airport to catch her flight back to the UK. The three musketeers remaining went for a little walk and found a coffee shop not to far away where we enjoyed some tea and I had some strudel! We went on back to the hostel where Ann and Pam confirmed their flights and then Maria also made her way to the train station.
I welcomed the evening and settled into bed ... a busy day and the end to something soooo special...
Ciao Ciao for now dear ones...
OMing with Mozart
Jennifer
I was to head to the glorious Salzburg for my two days of transition before I am off to Delhi via Vienna. 130pm was our pickup time and so through the rain we were off for the hour and a bit of the drive. Dropped our bags at the hostel and took a taxi to the Old City. There is a delightful chocolate shop, 'Devan', in the central square where we devoured decadent cakes and tea ... a lovely beginning to the afternoon.
Leisurely wondering the cobble streets, lights abound, sounds and baroque style buildings entertained above with the secrecy of history whispering around us... I think I could hear Mozart himself composing!
After enjoying dinner Cilla settled off to the airport to catch her flight back to the UK. The three musketeers remaining went for a little walk and found a coffee shop not to far away where we enjoyed some tea and I had some strudel! We went on back to the hostel where Ann and Pam confirmed their flights and then Maria also made her way to the train station.
I welcomed the evening and settled into bed ... a busy day and the end to something soooo special...
Ciao Ciao for now dear ones...
OMing with Mozart
Jennifer
Sunday, January 27, 2008
This is the end... for now
And so, yet again, we move towards the completion of a time well spent, new friendships and good wishes are caressed with the end of this session nearing...
A glorious day of sun, cool, crisp and invigorating wind strengthen our spirits to keep on track. With only 10 Sutras left to discover we began the day with the ritual of chanting the Sutras. One side of the class chanted and then the other, it was quite lovely. As we approached lunch, only two Sutras remained and so Kausthub decided that a longer break should be enjoyed to the joy of some of the Swedish ladies as they desired a sunny afternoon stroll. We were to meet again at 4pm. Some set up to take a sleigh ride with one of the locals and their glorious steeds. I noticed a couple enjoying such a romantic ride together and the trot trot trot of the horse brought back childhood memories.
I decided to relax and take a leisurely nap this afternoon, enjoy my book, gaze and admire my bedroom balcony view of the mountains in no haste to leave. I am glad to have a couple of days in Salzburg to transition from this profound experience and into another world.... India...
May this find you well, peaceful and happy!
Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om
Jennifer
A glorious day of sun, cool, crisp and invigorating wind strengthen our spirits to keep on track. With only 10 Sutras left to discover we began the day with the ritual of chanting the Sutras. One side of the class chanted and then the other, it was quite lovely. As we approached lunch, only two Sutras remained and so Kausthub decided that a longer break should be enjoyed to the joy of some of the Swedish ladies as they desired a sunny afternoon stroll. We were to meet again at 4pm. Some set up to take a sleigh ride with one of the locals and their glorious steeds. I noticed a couple enjoying such a romantic ride together and the trot trot trot of the horse brought back childhood memories.
I decided to relax and take a leisurely nap this afternoon, enjoy my book, gaze and admire my bedroom balcony view of the mountains in no haste to leave. I am glad to have a couple of days in Salzburg to transition from this profound experience and into another world.... India...
May this find you well, peaceful and happy!
Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Om
Jennifer
Friday, January 25, 2008
Turn around, Turn around and around....
We are approaching the end... I guess that is the case always... The end of a moment, the end of any hour, the end of a project, the end of a day ... and so we are met with Divya Chandra (divine moon)...
Speaking of Chandra, she is doing really well! Always with a sparkle of wisdom to share with the class, her wealth of experience and understanding of the Sutras and yoga philosophy is revered with great humility by us 'young ones'!
It appears that Howard is doing well, stable and still in Salzburg. He and Pat were to return to the UK on Sunday, leaving with the rest of the group, but he is unable to fly at this time. Pat was investigating the insurance they have so as to make alternate plans for them or at least a clear understanding of exactly what options were available for them. A 'nightmare' she has said...
On with the rest of us and the clarity bestowed with the next 20 Sutras ....
May I share one with you? This one really touched me (as do they all!)...
from Chapter 2 Yoga Sutras Sadhanapadah -
saucatsvangajugupsa parairasamsargah (transliteration from sanskrit)
saucat - thro'cleaniness
sva-anga - one's own body parts
jugupsa - disgust
paraih - other's (body or others)
asamsargah - disconnect or detachment
What does this mean?
- Patanjali is sharing that through cleaniness we develop digust for our own body parts and disconnect from others. Essentially, the more the focus on the 'outside', the cleaning of your 'outside', the more you forget to clean the inside. In this you will only continue to bring focus to the imperfections, the defects that you will continue to find in yourself and therefore in others as well. During this process one becomes superficial and disconnects from other's because of the view of their imperfections or defections as well (critical, self righteous and arrogant attitude). If one begins to clean a plate because they see a spot it is highly likely that they will find another and another and another until they become so distracted with the unending 'defects'. The more we realize that we have defects as do others (just the fact of aging can be an example, as youth slips away we can become more concerned with the outer appearance of things - hence the billion dollar industry in plastic surgery industry, cosmetics and creams galore!). It is, therefore, the wise who with this realization, recognize that disconnection or detachment from this notion of cleaning and being obssessive over the body, brings inner harmony and contentment with what is, allowing connection on a deeper level with one's self and all others. Clean is a relative perception...
Pretty cool...The great Patajali had psychosis down long (thousands of years!) before Freud!
So, I just want to say that I am showering....HAHA... I'm not obssessing is all...
Hoping this finds you all well and in peace...
With love and good smells from Austria... HAHA
xo
Om
Jennifer
Speaking of Chandra, she is doing really well! Always with a sparkle of wisdom to share with the class, her wealth of experience and understanding of the Sutras and yoga philosophy is revered with great humility by us 'young ones'!
It appears that Howard is doing well, stable and still in Salzburg. He and Pat were to return to the UK on Sunday, leaving with the rest of the group, but he is unable to fly at this time. Pat was investigating the insurance they have so as to make alternate plans for them or at least a clear understanding of exactly what options were available for them. A 'nightmare' she has said...
On with the rest of us and the clarity bestowed with the next 20 Sutras ....
May I share one with you? This one really touched me (as do they all!)...
from Chapter 2 Yoga Sutras Sadhanapadah -
saucatsvangajugupsa parairasamsargah (transliteration from sanskrit)
saucat - thro'cleaniness
sva-anga - one's own body parts
jugupsa - disgust
paraih - other's (body or others)
asamsargah - disconnect or detachment
What does this mean?
- Patanjali is sharing that through cleaniness we develop digust for our own body parts and disconnect from others. Essentially, the more the focus on the 'outside', the cleaning of your 'outside', the more you forget to clean the inside. In this you will only continue to bring focus to the imperfections, the defects that you will continue to find in yourself and therefore in others as well. During this process one becomes superficial and disconnects from other's because of the view of their imperfections or defections as well (critical, self righteous and arrogant attitude). If one begins to clean a plate because they see a spot it is highly likely that they will find another and another and another until they become so distracted with the unending 'defects'. The more we realize that we have defects as do others (just the fact of aging can be an example, as youth slips away we can become more concerned with the outer appearance of things - hence the billion dollar industry in plastic surgery industry, cosmetics and creams galore!). It is, therefore, the wise who with this realization, recognize that disconnection or detachment from this notion of cleaning and being obssessive over the body, brings inner harmony and contentment with what is, allowing connection on a deeper level with one's self and all others. Clean is a relative perception...
Pretty cool...The great Patajali had psychosis down long (thousands of years!) before Freud!
So, I just want to say that I am showering....HAHA... I'm not obssessing is all...
Hoping this finds you all well and in peace...
With love and good smells from Austria... HAHA
xo
Om
Jennifer
Dancing Queen....Having the time of your life....
Nestled among the glorious mountains with the church bells ringing out at 6am, a cascade of feather light snow welcomed the morning and the sun again graced us with it's presence...
Up early seems to be a habit that my body enjoys. The first to wonder the halls and behold the day's activity feels almost as though I am sneaking up on Santa and the gifts yet to receive.
Feeling much better as the allergy that affected me so deeply for the previous days is almost completely healed. I had accidentially given myself an oil massage with neem oil rather then brahmi oil the morning after arriving in Salzburg with terribly painful side effects of a rash over my entire body... poor thing has had me itching like crazy with fear that I was even at times disturbing my delightful roommates! Oh well.. it is on the mend and I am so grateful for time.... it does heal everything non? HAHA
Howard, our friend from England, was taken to hospital with chest pain this morning. By afternoon he was taken by helicopter to Salzburg for examination and tests. Apparently since the two exams from morning and afternoon were different, it appeared that he had a mild heartattack. He has had immediate surgery to unblock two arteries that were causing the chest pain and high blood pressure. Having to stay there over night we are still awaiting news of his recovery and everything has come back into balance with the relief of the surgery. His beloved wife Pat has been nurtured and nourished by the sanga with assistance and comfort during this time. She appears to still be in good spirits and the return of our friend is looked forward to.
That said the day and it's unfolding of Sutras clearly mirrored our hearts concerns and the desire for freedom from all and everything that contributes to our, and the world's suffering...
With love
Om
Jennifer
Up early seems to be a habit that my body enjoys. The first to wonder the halls and behold the day's activity feels almost as though I am sneaking up on Santa and the gifts yet to receive.
Feeling much better as the allergy that affected me so deeply for the previous days is almost completely healed. I had accidentially given myself an oil massage with neem oil rather then brahmi oil the morning after arriving in Salzburg with terribly painful side effects of a rash over my entire body... poor thing has had me itching like crazy with fear that I was even at times disturbing my delightful roommates! Oh well.. it is on the mend and I am so grateful for time.... it does heal everything non? HAHA
Howard, our friend from England, was taken to hospital with chest pain this morning. By afternoon he was taken by helicopter to Salzburg for examination and tests. Apparently since the two exams from morning and afternoon were different, it appeared that he had a mild heartattack. He has had immediate surgery to unblock two arteries that were causing the chest pain and high blood pressure. Having to stay there over night we are still awaiting news of his recovery and everything has come back into balance with the relief of the surgery. His beloved wife Pat has been nurtured and nourished by the sanga with assistance and comfort during this time. She appears to still be in good spirits and the return of our friend is looked forward to.
That said the day and it's unfolding of Sutras clearly mirrored our hearts concerns and the desire for freedom from all and everything that contributes to our, and the world's suffering...
With love
Om
Jennifer
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Here Comes the Sun little darlin'....
Missed yesterday's post as a lonnnnnggg dinner conversation and research consumed the remains of energy in a rather fatigued body, mind and spirit...
And so I shall share what was experienced in the glow of the mountains and the sun's return in glorious, quaint Piesendorf.
The beginning of Chapter 2 welcomed us into the discovery of that which creates our suffering. A longing to know has it's bite though, for when we know we then have the responsibility to 'do'. There is a very obvious different feeling and energy in the class amongst the students. Many are the questions and long are the discussions which gives rise to another and yet another... We traveled on to complete the first 18 Sutras which for many was to much, to fast... Perhaps tomorrow will ease in it's intensity and quantity. It was beginning to look alittle like 'Lost in Translation'! HAHA
Chandra's wrist is feeling pretty good and she is taking good care. She is such a lovely soul with careful and wise consideration in her sharing.
The magnificent mountains presented themselves in full view and tea breaks included basking in her rays on the balcony.
There are many others staying on here at the hotel and I can only imagine their joy on the ski hills today...
Hope this day was met in joy, good health and peace for each of you...
Namaste
Jennifer
Kiss Kiss
And so I shall share what was experienced in the glow of the mountains and the sun's return in glorious, quaint Piesendorf.
The beginning of Chapter 2 welcomed us into the discovery of that which creates our suffering. A longing to know has it's bite though, for when we know we then have the responsibility to 'do'. There is a very obvious different feeling and energy in the class amongst the students. Many are the questions and long are the discussions which gives rise to another and yet another... We traveled on to complete the first 18 Sutras which for many was to much, to fast... Perhaps tomorrow will ease in it's intensity and quantity. It was beginning to look alittle like 'Lost in Translation'! HAHA
Chandra's wrist is feeling pretty good and she is taking good care. She is such a lovely soul with careful and wise consideration in her sharing.
The magnificent mountains presented themselves in full view and tea breaks included basking in her rays on the balcony.
There are many others staying on here at the hotel and I can only imagine their joy on the ski hills today...
Hope this day was met in joy, good health and peace for each of you...
Namaste
Jennifer
Kiss Kiss
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Let it Shine ....
I awoke at 4am having gotten to bed by 9pm after a delicious oil massage and steam to assuage tired muscles and spirit...
A clear morning with light snowfall and a melody of church bells by 6am echoed across the valley and mountains ... quite dreamy and precious.
After settling in to complete the last few Sutras of this first Chapter there were numerous arrangements as to how to spead the afternoon as it was to be a time of freely discovering and playing here and around Salzburg for most. I have stayed to leisurely rest, read and just follow my moment to moment fancy with a nice cup of tea. By now the rain had been with us for a few hours and the thought of venturing outside had no appeal to me at all.
Tonight shall be another early night with what appears a tradition of massage and glorious steam (I MUST have one in my future home!!!) prior to cuddling up with my fantastical duvet and enjoyable book.
I hope that you are all well and keeping in good health and balance ... remember to let your little light shine, ok?! HAHAH
Love and peace
Om
Jennifer
My dear friend Debra Deen had shared this delightful song with me a long time ago and the childhood memories came flooding back ... enjoy
See this Little Light of Mine (remember to 'light' your thumb for special effect!)
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this light light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, all the time
Won't let (distance) snuff it out
I'm going to let it shine
Won't let (distance) snuff it out
I'm going to let it shine
Won't let (distance) snuff it out
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, all the time
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this light light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, all the time
A clear morning with light snowfall and a melody of church bells by 6am echoed across the valley and mountains ... quite dreamy and precious.
After settling in to complete the last few Sutras of this first Chapter there were numerous arrangements as to how to spead the afternoon as it was to be a time of freely discovering and playing here and around Salzburg for most. I have stayed to leisurely rest, read and just follow my moment to moment fancy with a nice cup of tea. By now the rain had been with us for a few hours and the thought of venturing outside had no appeal to me at all.
Tonight shall be another early night with what appears a tradition of massage and glorious steam (I MUST have one in my future home!!!) prior to cuddling up with my fantastical duvet and enjoyable book.
I hope that you are all well and keeping in good health and balance ... remember to let your little light shine, ok?! HAHAH
Love and peace
Om
Jennifer
My dear friend Debra Deen had shared this delightful song with me a long time ago and the childhood memories came flooding back ... enjoy
See this Little Light of Mine (remember to 'light' your thumb for special effect!)
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this light light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, all the time
Won't let (distance) snuff it out
I'm going to let it shine
Won't let (distance) snuff it out
I'm going to let it shine
Won't let (distance) snuff it out
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, all the time
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this light light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
See this little light of mine
I'm going to let it shine
Let it shine, let it shine, all the time
Monday, January 21, 2008
It's gettin' hot in here....
I didn't sleep that well last night...Got up this morning at around 5am to practice and felt that today would be challenging due to the lack of deep rest.
Last night I did have a nice oil massage and steam but still the sleep didn't really come... Cross my fingers for tonight!
And so we ended on Sutra 44 in the first chapter today. As mentioned there are 51 in all for Chapter 1 and it looks like tomorrow afternoon we have off as a break between the beginning of Chapter 2. Looks like the class is ready for a breather....
Chandra, a 76 yr old Indian woman who has being living in Italy for a number of years and is a long time student of this tradition in addition to a family friend of the Desikachar's, fell this morning and broke her wrist. What a sport though ... she raises her arm to assist with the circulation and gets right on with the work! Not to mention she can chant the sutras no problem without a book reference!!! I am sitted beside her and have been secretly praying that some of mad skills rub off!
We have also got Howard from the UK here with his wife. Both long time students and yoga teachers in the tradition, Howard is 71 years old and a retired Priest ... it's all quite inspiring to say the least.
There are other interesting 'professions' here as practitioners/students/teachers of the tradition - a lawyer, a scientist, a physicist, golf pro, a young Italian lady who completed her PH.D in world religious studies all as examples of the diverse and yet interconnected fascination and discipline of this work with it's transparency in how it translates to everyone.
These moments and experiences shared are unfolding in a wonderful and profound manner which I am enjoying immensely...
The weather here has been interesting...there was more snow, more sunshine and it was colder when I was here in November. Perhaps tomorrow's afternoon break will gift everyone with the desired snow day they seek.. yet the Sutras teach us to be aware and reflect on desires, even if it is for a snowy day in Austria! HAHAH
Be well...
Om
Jennifer
Last night I did have a nice oil massage and steam but still the sleep didn't really come... Cross my fingers for tonight!
And so we ended on Sutra 44 in the first chapter today. As mentioned there are 51 in all for Chapter 1 and it looks like tomorrow afternoon we have off as a break between the beginning of Chapter 2. Looks like the class is ready for a breather....
Chandra, a 76 yr old Indian woman who has being living in Italy for a number of years and is a long time student of this tradition in addition to a family friend of the Desikachar's, fell this morning and broke her wrist. What a sport though ... she raises her arm to assist with the circulation and gets right on with the work! Not to mention she can chant the sutras no problem without a book reference!!! I am sitted beside her and have been secretly praying that some of mad skills rub off!
We have also got Howard from the UK here with his wife. Both long time students and yoga teachers in the tradition, Howard is 71 years old and a retired Priest ... it's all quite inspiring to say the least.
There are other interesting 'professions' here as practitioners/students/teachers of the tradition - a lawyer, a scientist, a physicist, golf pro, a young Italian lady who completed her PH.D in world religious studies all as examples of the diverse and yet interconnected fascination and discipline of this work with it's transparency in how it translates to everyone.
These moments and experiences shared are unfolding in a wonderful and profound manner which I am enjoying immensely...
The weather here has been interesting...there was more snow, more sunshine and it was colder when I was here in November. Perhaps tomorrow's afternoon break will gift everyone with the desired snow day they seek.. yet the Sutras teach us to be aware and reflect on desires, even if it is for a snowy day in Austria! HAHAH
Be well...
Om
Jennifer
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Quiet of the mind...
There is a story about time that goes something like this ....
Once there were three yogi's meditating in the Himilayas. Ten years had pasted when the first yogi opened his eyes and said, 'Geez, it's a little cold!'. He closed his eyes and began meditating again. Ten years passed and the second yogi opened his eyes. He said, 'Yes, it is a little cold isn't it!'. He closed his eyes and again began meditating. Again ten years passed before the third yogi opened his eyes and said, 'Will you two shutup!!!'. And so the concept of time was a large focus of our studies today with an acknowledgement to that which is 'the interpreter and the interpreted'....
A heated day I tell you!
One of the Swedes shared that she was born in Pakistan at which Kausthub joined in that they must have a connection through brothers and sisters!' HAHAHA Always with a quick one he is!
I am beginning to get an idea of the depth of the Sutras and their profound ability and application in all areas of life. It is astounding to know that they were written thousands of years ago and yet they are just as accurate and flexible in their description of our humanity.
As we move forward the conversations are more dynamic and the understanding and clarification that they are NOT religious in their translation or writing is breaking down walls so to speak. It is definitely causing the 'crowd' to surrender all that was brought so as to here the real story that Patanjali saw, understood and shared somewhere in a time when such 'light' was uninterrupted from the distraction of our modern 'progression'! HAHAHAH
Be well dear ones...
Ciao
Om
Jennifer
Once there were three yogi's meditating in the Himilayas. Ten years had pasted when the first yogi opened his eyes and said, 'Geez, it's a little cold!'. He closed his eyes and began meditating again. Ten years passed and the second yogi opened his eyes. He said, 'Yes, it is a little cold isn't it!'. He closed his eyes and again began meditating. Again ten years passed before the third yogi opened his eyes and said, 'Will you two shutup!!!'. And so the concept of time was a large focus of our studies today with an acknowledgement to that which is 'the interpreter and the interpreted'....
A heated day I tell you!
One of the Swedes shared that she was born in Pakistan at which Kausthub joined in that they must have a connection through brothers and sisters!' HAHAHA Always with a quick one he is!
I am beginning to get an idea of the depth of the Sutras and their profound ability and application in all areas of life. It is astounding to know that they were written thousands of years ago and yet they are just as accurate and flexible in their description of our humanity.
As we move forward the conversations are more dynamic and the understanding and clarification that they are NOT religious in their translation or writing is breaking down walls so to speak. It is definitely causing the 'crowd' to surrender all that was brought so as to here the real story that Patanjali saw, understood and shared somewhere in a time when such 'light' was uninterrupted from the distraction of our modern 'progression'! HAHAHAH
Be well dear ones...
Ciao
Om
Jennifer
Yoga Sutras... for LIFE!
Well, sorry to have missed this post last night, January 19 as my body felt like it was experiencing 'jetlag' once again!
I made it through the day but barely hung on in the second half of the session, hoping and praying that the eyes would stay open, the body upright and the mind, if at all possible!, focused. Poor Kausthub, I was not an honor student in his 'presence' yesterday!!! HAHAHAH
And so the Yoga Sutras begin -
'Atha Yoganusasanam' ......This is the vow/commitment between teacher and student to teach and learn on this path no matter what the challenges that will present themselves. Upon reflection one understands that to overcome suffering they must face their suffering and all that is creating their suffering. One must be here NOW in the pursuit of any goal. The baggage from the past must be left and not projected into the future. What has happened is good for learning only and the future must not be looked upon either. The significance is NOW. Start with this intention. Often we are to focused on what we will get rather then the process...
Wow.... just a tad heavy to begin! But good old Patanjali, the sage who wrote the Yoga Sutras, knew that this is necessary and applicable in all relationship, in all of life and so it has inspired me to reflect on my life, decisions I've made and that which has unfolded.
Our studies are held in a very comfortable and beautiful space that had been added on to the main house in the last couple of years. This is the place where Frederike's, the owner of the property and my 'schoolmate', mother spent her last days. It holds a certain energy as one can imagine and the back drop view is that of the glorious Alps rising from the earth in a thunderous applause of splendor and strength. Not too shabby!
Class is held in the morning from 9am-12pm with a nice twenty minute tea break which is the joy of everyone especially the English! We join again after lunch at around 230pm until 530pm and again we have a nice little break when the windows and doors are swung open and the fresh mountain air lifts our tired spirits. Today we completed the first 14 Sutras of 51 in this first Chapter. The second chapter has 55 Sutras and this is where the studies will end for the first module with the final Sutras of Chapters 3 & 4 delved into next January when we shall convene again.
Kausthub is a wonderful teacher, eloquent, funny, polite and some what controversial with his modern approach to sharing such an ancient text. You can especially feel the 'heat' when the questions of 'God and Jesus' are directed to the Italians! Always with a hint of lighting a firecracker he feigns that it was just 'open for discussion'! Needless to say there is never any fear of boredom of course, just the signs of jetlag!
We broke from the end of studies and most found their way to dinner but neither I nor my roommate Kelly had an ounce of appetite. Rather, we chatted a short while and drifted to sleep by about 630pm. I awoke at 1130pm, got up, prepared myself 'properly' for bed, a fresh set of teeth that is!, and jumped right back under the covers. Not abit of the warmth created from my evening 'siesta' had time to leave before my return! And on I slept until 4am nestled in the cocoon of a feather duvet (these feathers must be imported!) ....
Here I leave you for a short while ... Be well
Kiss Kiss
Ciao
Jennifer
I made it through the day but barely hung on in the second half of the session, hoping and praying that the eyes would stay open, the body upright and the mind, if at all possible!, focused. Poor Kausthub, I was not an honor student in his 'presence' yesterday!!! HAHAHAH
And so the Yoga Sutras begin -
'Atha Yoganusasanam' ......This is the vow/commitment between teacher and student to teach and learn on this path no matter what the challenges that will present themselves. Upon reflection one understands that to overcome suffering they must face their suffering and all that is creating their suffering. One must be here NOW in the pursuit of any goal. The baggage from the past must be left and not projected into the future. What has happened is good for learning only and the future must not be looked upon either. The significance is NOW. Start with this intention. Often we are to focused on what we will get rather then the process...
Wow.... just a tad heavy to begin! But good old Patanjali, the sage who wrote the Yoga Sutras, knew that this is necessary and applicable in all relationship, in all of life and so it has inspired me to reflect on my life, decisions I've made and that which has unfolded.
Our studies are held in a very comfortable and beautiful space that had been added on to the main house in the last couple of years. This is the place where Frederike's, the owner of the property and my 'schoolmate', mother spent her last days. It holds a certain energy as one can imagine and the back drop view is that of the glorious Alps rising from the earth in a thunderous applause of splendor and strength. Not too shabby!
Class is held in the morning from 9am-12pm with a nice twenty minute tea break which is the joy of everyone especially the English! We join again after lunch at around 230pm until 530pm and again we have a nice little break when the windows and doors are swung open and the fresh mountain air lifts our tired spirits. Today we completed the first 14 Sutras of 51 in this first Chapter. The second chapter has 55 Sutras and this is where the studies will end for the first module with the final Sutras of Chapters 3 & 4 delved into next January when we shall convene again.
Kausthub is a wonderful teacher, eloquent, funny, polite and some what controversial with his modern approach to sharing such an ancient text. You can especially feel the 'heat' when the questions of 'God and Jesus' are directed to the Italians! Always with a hint of lighting a firecracker he feigns that it was just 'open for discussion'! Needless to say there is never any fear of boredom of course, just the signs of jetlag!
We broke from the end of studies and most found their way to dinner but neither I nor my roommate Kelly had an ounce of appetite. Rather, we chatted a short while and drifted to sleep by about 630pm. I awoke at 1130pm, got up, prepared myself 'properly' for bed, a fresh set of teeth that is!, and jumped right back under the covers. Not abit of the warmth created from my evening 'siesta' had time to leave before my return! And on I slept until 4am nestled in the cocoon of a feather duvet (these feathers must be imported!) ....
Here I leave you for a short while ... Be well
Kiss Kiss
Ciao
Jennifer
Friday, January 18, 2008
I have arrived... and so it begins!
I don't know about you but packing is not something I am that great with... I thought it would be easy and did not imagine the difficulties in decisions of necessities vs wants! Poor Chris stood at the helm of forcing decision as the weight of my baggage increased and then some! The last day at home was somewhat frantic with loose ends to complete, people to confirm notice and endless thoughts of what lay ahead in this precious and most humbling journey... So sorry not to have connected with those that I mentioned I would as the hours counted down I was innundated with 'oh, I thought I had done that already! yikes!', moments........
Chandra, Mother Moon, lit up the sky and in her cooling, poised glow I remembered to be with the breath, stop snapping at my beloved Chris!, and have sraddha, faith, that every angel needed in every moment will appear...This I am most certain of... Is that an Oprah line.... Hmmmm
The journey began early in the morning of January 16 with a flight to Frankfurt via Montreal and then on to Salzburg when I stayed, slept rather!, in a familiar hostel, the Yoho, with only one drunk roommate this time from Melbourne, Australia... She hadn't intended to get drunk she said, it just happened and so my 'wakeup call' at 2am just 'happened'!
After a rather light breakfast, I decided to move on to Piesendorf instead of staying in Salzburg as my checkout time was 10am and a train was available at 11:04am. After this module of study, advanced study of chapters 1 & 2 Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, ends on January 27 I will be in Salzburg until January 30 anyway so I can relax and leisurely take in the city then.
I arrived in Piesendorf and at the hotel/hostel where the studies are held, at around 130pm. Lunch was being served and so with an invitation from the host, and my study mate, Frederike Sugimoto, I joined a small group of students that had arrived as well as our teacher, Kausthub Desikachar, for some much needed sustenance. Having transported my rather heavy luggage from the train station and getting a little workout! Thank goodness most will be staying here as I have my Europe and India attire sharing space!
The afternoon was spent making myself at home in room 104 and resting. It is the same room I shared with my american friends in November during the first module of study with the Vedic Chanting Teacher Training group. This time it is with Pam from Sussex, England, who has been a student of this tradition for a very long time (maybe she will share some secrets!) and Kelly from Melbourne, Australia, who is a teacher in this tradition and a student of Kausthub's with the Yoga Therapist 4 year course. Ahhh... I dream of completing that someday too!
I feel quite at home....
Dinner was shared at 7pm and 8pm we met in the hall for orientation and introduction of the 'international' class. Again, I am the lone 'maple leaf' here! There are four couples though which is quite unique and interestingly the four men in the group of 34 are the spouse who 'in some way or another were introduced or forced into yoga by their mates'! HAHAHAH
Of those four men one is a teacher in the tradition (he has also just published a handbook on Vedic Chanting for teachers and students and just happens to be a student of my chanting teacher Radha as well) and the others are incredibly curious to pursue their studies... Hey Chris, what do you think? Nudge nudge!!!!
Like the Vedic Chanting Sanga (community, group), this group is a mix of culture, language, age, experience and passion. There are numerous Swedes here! I think 6 at least if I remember correctly, lots of English, German, Italian, a couple of Scots, a couple from Estonia, a number of Aussies, Nauca from Tokyo, French, Mexico City, Spain, Belgium and a few Americans, Ria is from New Jersey but has lived in Munich the last 20 years! There are around 5 of us under 40 years with rest of the group spanning upwards to 75 years! How inspiring!!!
And so it all begins as everything does, from the beginning and although I feel quite restless in a deep, profound and gentle excitement, I welcome the unfolding of a chapter that has not yet been written, has not been seen and has not yet been felt but is honored with gratitude for its existence and its moments which shall open in their own time in their own environment and with their own trust just as the flower bud blossoms in the wake of the sun....
I hope this finds you all well and I send my love from afar only in geography, not far at all in the heart... Thank you for sharing this journey. It is possible only because of the love, kindness, support, devotion and compassion of my beloved partner and friend, Chris and the cheering on, of course, with unending love of you dear friends.
Ciao and good night
Om
Jennifer xo
Chandra, Mother Moon, lit up the sky and in her cooling, poised glow I remembered to be with the breath, stop snapping at my beloved Chris!, and have sraddha, faith, that every angel needed in every moment will appear...This I am most certain of... Is that an Oprah line.... Hmmmm
The journey began early in the morning of January 16 with a flight to Frankfurt via Montreal and then on to Salzburg when I stayed, slept rather!, in a familiar hostel, the Yoho, with only one drunk roommate this time from Melbourne, Australia... She hadn't intended to get drunk she said, it just happened and so my 'wakeup call' at 2am just 'happened'!
After a rather light breakfast, I decided to move on to Piesendorf instead of staying in Salzburg as my checkout time was 10am and a train was available at 11:04am. After this module of study, advanced study of chapters 1 & 2 Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, ends on January 27 I will be in Salzburg until January 30 anyway so I can relax and leisurely take in the city then.
I arrived in Piesendorf and at the hotel/hostel where the studies are held, at around 130pm. Lunch was being served and so with an invitation from the host, and my study mate, Frederike Sugimoto, I joined a small group of students that had arrived as well as our teacher, Kausthub Desikachar, for some much needed sustenance. Having transported my rather heavy luggage from the train station and getting a little workout! Thank goodness most will be staying here as I have my Europe and India attire sharing space!
The afternoon was spent making myself at home in room 104 and resting. It is the same room I shared with my american friends in November during the first module of study with the Vedic Chanting Teacher Training group. This time it is with Pam from Sussex, England, who has been a student of this tradition for a very long time (maybe she will share some secrets!) and Kelly from Melbourne, Australia, who is a teacher in this tradition and a student of Kausthub's with the Yoga Therapist 4 year course. Ahhh... I dream of completing that someday too!
I feel quite at home....
Dinner was shared at 7pm and 8pm we met in the hall for orientation and introduction of the 'international' class. Again, I am the lone 'maple leaf' here! There are four couples though which is quite unique and interestingly the four men in the group of 34 are the spouse who 'in some way or another were introduced or forced into yoga by their mates'! HAHAHAH
Of those four men one is a teacher in the tradition (he has also just published a handbook on Vedic Chanting for teachers and students and just happens to be a student of my chanting teacher Radha as well) and the others are incredibly curious to pursue their studies... Hey Chris, what do you think? Nudge nudge!!!!
Like the Vedic Chanting Sanga (community, group), this group is a mix of culture, language, age, experience and passion. There are numerous Swedes here! I think 6 at least if I remember correctly, lots of English, German, Italian, a couple of Scots, a couple from Estonia, a number of Aussies, Nauca from Tokyo, French, Mexico City, Spain, Belgium and a few Americans, Ria is from New Jersey but has lived in Munich the last 20 years! There are around 5 of us under 40 years with rest of the group spanning upwards to 75 years! How inspiring!!!
And so it all begins as everything does, from the beginning and although I feel quite restless in a deep, profound and gentle excitement, I welcome the unfolding of a chapter that has not yet been written, has not been seen and has not yet been felt but is honored with gratitude for its existence and its moments which shall open in their own time in their own environment and with their own trust just as the flower bud blossoms in the wake of the sun....
I hope this finds you all well and I send my love from afar only in geography, not far at all in the heart... Thank you for sharing this journey. It is possible only because of the love, kindness, support, devotion and compassion of my beloved partner and friend, Chris and the cheering on, of course, with unending love of you dear friends.
Ciao and good night
Om
Jennifer xo
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