I used to see a Sant (yogi) every day on my way to or from school when we were living in India. He was as pale as the buffalo milk I drank, and as tall and thin as a eucalyptus tree. He lived in a little cottage on the main road, just by the entrance of the long driveway that led to my family’s farm.
Most days, I would see him simply strolling about, walking almost in slow motion through the trees.
That’s how I remember him, and though some of the details may be fuzzy, what I felt when I saw him is absolutely clear: he seemed to be a part of something else, something I couldn’t name, and had not yet realized that I yearned for. He seemed neither to be rushing through life nor agitated by it, as most other adults appeared to be.
That Sant was one my first teachers in that he taught me, through his carriage, about grace in the body – that you could have time for life, and become utterly, harmoniously absorbed in it. I felt drawn to the possibilities he embodied as he glided amongst the trees.
I don’t think I ever spoke to him, but his influence on me was powerful. I took the experience of him as a piece of treasure, and tucked it safely away in my being. It has become my compass, a guide for how I wish to be in the world and within myself.
Today’s meditation is about embodying grace and wholeness in our bodies, in every posture, gesture and movement. Here we go.
Find a quiet spot to sit for a few moments for this exercise, and sit down.
Feel free to wiggle around until you are quite comfortable. Now take a couple of deep breaths and close your eyes, giving yourself a few moments to adjust to your inner awareness.
On your next deep breath, begin to scan your body starting at the top of your head all the way down to your toes. Look for any signs of tension/constrictions or discomfort. Are there any thought forms or conclusions that come into your awareness as you scan your body?
Take your time here to let your body “speak”, and listen to what it is saying to you. You may hear some thoughts like “I’m so tired,” or “I can’t do this.”. Be patient, and listen.
Now, inhale deeply and begin to release any tension or constriction within your body by exhaling. Continue to use your breath to release the tension/constrictions for as long as it takes to relax and quieten.
Take the time to stay within the still quietness of your body and mind. Meditate. Continue with your focused breathing.
When you are ready, open your eyes slowly, and remain still for a moment. How does your body feel? More centered? Balanced? Brighter?
Familiarize yourself with this feeling, and anchor into it as you move through the rest of your day. Continue to practice this meditation as often as you can, and observe the difference it makes in your movements, actions, and mood. The benefits are truly beautiful!
Navjit