Listen Up

You've heard of "The Third Eye", residing in the center of your brain; the eye that sees what your outer eyes cannot discern.  Let me introduce you to your "Third Ear".

You actually know you have a third ear, and hopefully you use it often.  The third ear resides in your solar plexus, i.e., your gut.  Yup, it's that gut instinct, that power inside you that is telling you which way to go.  Should you get into that elevator with that man?  Should you accept the job offer?  Do you trust her?

Stop and allow that third ear to listen to exactly what is going on, and it will let you know what it hears.  Sometimes the answer is immediate, other times you and your ears need to sleep on it.

Stop, look and listen.  That guy's right -- you did learn everything you need to know in kindergarten.

Who's got it easy?

Is there someone in your life for whom everything seems to come easily, without excess energy, thought, or angst?  I have someone in mind, and I wonder, if I presented her with this assessment, whether she would nod happily, or look at me in surprise.  Probably the latter.  Looking in at someone from the outside does not give the whole picture.  There is often something lurking in the background, or an issue your friend glosses over or avoids talking about.  Perhaps your friend has had the great fortune to learn how to deal with (notice I did not say "overcome") her negative issues.... perhaps she is just a good faker.

Rejoice in another's good fortune and happiness - and mean it - and you will reap happiness in return.

Just remember not to judge someone else's life.  Period.

The Knee Knows

A few years ago I had an operation on my knee.  It was considered a success, but still, I occasionally feel twinges and worry that the problem will return.  This is why I’ll often say to my yoga students, “Bring your attention to your knees” and “Put a micro-bend in your knees”.  Everyone has their own issues, whether it’s stiff hamstrings or the fear of headstand. The more aware one can become of different body parts and sensations that arise during yoga and in everyday activities, the better the chances to avoid injury and move forward in your practice.

As you go through your day -- up and down stairs carrying laundry baskets; crawling on the floor after babies or cleaning up spills, stretching up to swipe the cobweb on the ceiling – pay attention to what your body is saying to you.  Does it say, ahh, that feels good, or does it complain about the strain?  Take a moment of stillness and assess your joints and muscles.  Listen to your body and learn about yourself.