My Many Colored Days

Can you be present with what is, knowing it will change? This question is asked from time to time in yoga classes, usually during a particularly difficult pose. We are challenged to pay attention to the running dialogue in our minds and begin to change it so we can stay, breathe and find peace in the truth it will be different soon.

Needless to say this is not easy on the mat, nor out in the world. I know for myself, I fight to get away from uncomfortable feelings, and in the fleeing I usually make it worse. I am working to stay with what is off the mat knowing it will change in time; it always does.

I wanted to weave this theme into the kids yoga and art workshop. After a great yoga session, we read the book My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss. In the book, feelings and moods are compared to a spectrum of colors in a way kids can relate to. They were able to identify feelings they associated with different colors in so many interesting ways. We then went on to discuss the main theme of the book --that feelings change from day-to-day and hour-to-hour. I emphasized that a gray day can lead right into a green day, so just stay with the gray trusting it will change.

Like adults, kids can also experience different feelings at the same time. All of these concepts are reflected in the art projects the kids worked on. They create a visual reminder on the canvas that circumstances constantly change -- and it is OK be present with what is.

Peace,

Jen

blueversary!

Namaste!

Someone recently asked me how long blue lotus has been open. My immediate response was the standard "It will be four years in February." But my internal response had a little more excitement, amazement and surprise. I actually can't believe it's been four years, and that we are moving into our 5th year as downtown Raleigh's yoga sanctuary!

Nearly every newcomer to the studio comments on the community that our teachers, students and volunteers have created at "The Blue." It's a place where everyone is welcome to join us for the fun, the inspiration and the family that has grown from a shared yoga practice.

So celebrating four years in business, we are gearing up for a "Blueversary Bash" on February 4-6. As per tradition, we will offer a full three-day weekend of classes by donation, including a Veggie Potluck on Friday night. Our goal is to raise $5000 for CORRAL, supporting one full year of participation for an at-risk girl right here in the Triangle. Check out the activities!

Thanks for being an active part of the blue lotus community, supporting the growth of our studio and giving back to others in the form of service hours and donations offered.

We hope to see you there!

Peace,

Jill

New Year's Eve Playlist

Hello Blue Friends,

Had a few requests for the music from my New Year's Eve morning class. May I just say that it was a privilege to be in the room with all of you on this day. What I saw moving and churning and then ultimately let go.... whew. That was no small feat my friends. You continue to inspire me.

Here's to exploring the space left by obstacles long gone.

Om Gum Ganapatayei Namaha

Carrington