The Magic of “Om”

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Om Wallpaper

Om or Aum is a sacred sound and symbol. Om is the universal sound; the first sound of creation. In the yoga sutras by B.K.S Iyengar (1993), “Aum is called Pranava, which stands for the praise of the divine and fulfillment of divinity.” Iyengar continues to say, “Sound is vibration, which as modern science tells us, is the source of all creation. God is beyond vibration, but vibration, being the subtlest of His creation, is the nearest we can get to Him in the physical world. So we take it as His symbol.”

I have been using Om in my pranayama practice. Yogic breathing is called pranayama in Sanskrit. Brown et al., (2005) defines pranayama as “meaning both control of energy and expansion of energy” (p. 189). In other words, Brown says that the breath is energy, and we have control over it. Brown (2005) states, prana is defined as breath or life force. According to Iyengar (1996), “pranayama by nature has three components: inhalation, exhalation, and retention. They are carefully learned by elongating the breath and prolonging the time of retention according to the elasticity of the torso, the length and depth of breath and the precision of movements” (p. 33). Iyengar’s point is to learn to hold the breath for longer periods of time to increase the volume oxygen in the body.

Breath links the body and mind. Yogic breathing techniques can be used to balance the autonomic nervous system and have a positive effect on stress-related disorders. When individuals are under stress, they restrict their breathing and decrease the amount of oxygen coming into their bodies (Wilkinson, 2002). Yogic breathing techniques increase the volume of oxygen in the lungs and help the body to relax and the mind to focus.

When I chant Om, I repeat it three times with a long expiration. Chanting Om has complex effects on the brain; especially in the Wernicke’s area and the thalamus (Brown, 2005). According to Brown et al., (2005), “Even just mentally chanting Om showed decreased metabolism, decreased heart rate, and increased peripheral vascular resistance in seven experienced yogic meditators” (p. 195). Chanting Om also increases synchronicity of particular biorhythms in the brain (Zope, 2013). D’Antoni et al.(1995) state that “mantra production frequently employs the phonemes, m, and n, which are thought to evoke pleasant association and a feeling of release” (p. 309). The chant Om has the phoneme m in it.

Om is magical. I have experienced its effects on my mind and body. I am an emotional person and sometimes I have a difficult time controlling my emotions. According to The Art of Living Foundation (http://www.artofliving.org), “rather than allowing the emotions to alter the breath (and cause physiological changes which may prove unhealthy), one can skillfully use the breath to transform one’s emotional state.” When someone is angry, the breath is short and quick. And when someone is sad or upset, the breath is long and deep. Om can be used to control the breath and balance the emotions.

I had a little health scare this past month. I found a few pink, scaly spots on my face. I was worried that I might have skin cancer. So last week I went to the dermatologist. I made a plan that I would silently use the Om chant while I sat in the office, and during the consultation and treatment. I was surprised how chanting Om helped me to be calm and feel centered. I did not get upset, and my heart rhythm was strong.

I found out that I do not have skin cancer. I have Actinic Keratoses. It’s a common skin disorder from years of sun exposure. Actinic Keratoses is considered precancerous. If left untreated, Actinic Keratoses may turn into squamous cell carcinoma. I am treating my spots (with liquid nitrogen), so hopefully I will not get skin cancer.

I can count on the magic of Om to balance the biorhythms in my brain and in my heart. I have to admit; I was scared that I was going to die from skin cancer. Deep breathing and prayer helped me connect with God and the universe. Life can be scary, so we need to learn to breathe through it.

Namaste, world.

breathe in peace

References

Brown, R.P., & Gerbarg, P.L., (2005). Sudarshan kriya yogic breathing in the treatment of  stress, anxiety, and depression: Part I – Neurophysiologic model. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 11(1), 189-201.

Brown, R.P., & Gerbarg, P.L., (2005). Sudarshan kriya yogic breathing in the treatment of stress, anxiety, and depression: Part II – Clinical applications and guidelines. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 11(4), 711-717.

D’Antoni, M., Harvey, P., & Fried, M. (1995). Alternative medicine: Does it play a role in the management of voice disorders. Journal of Voice, 9(3), 308-311.

Iyengar, B.K.S. (1966). Light on yoga. New York, NY: Schocken Books, Inc.

Iyengar, B.K.S. (1993). Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. Hammersmith, London: HarperCollins Publishers.

Wilkinson, L., Buboltz, W. C., & Young, T. (2002). Breathing techniques to promote client relaxation and tension reduction. Journal of Clinical Activities, Assignments & Handouts in Psychotherapy Practice, 2(1), 1-14.

Zope, S.A., & Zope, R.A., (2013). Sudarshan kriya yoga: Breathing for health. International Journal of Yoga, 6(1), 4-10.

My Spiritual Pilgrimage

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Sedona view

I just went on a spiritual pilgrimage to Sedona, Arizona. And now that I am back, I can reflect on my experience. I ask myself the questions: What is a spiritual pilgrimage? What was I seeking? And what did I learn?

According to eHow, a spiritual pilgrimage is a physical journey toward a place of sacred or religious significance. Sedona attracts people from all over the world to experience its vortexes and holy land. Many people travel to Sedona for healing and to evolve their consciousness. The red rocks contain minerals of quartz, copper and iron; both hold healing properties. Copper magnifies energy and opens up the chakras. And iron, like in our blood, creates balance in the body and mind.

I traveled with three other spiritual seekers: Sister Lucy is a Franciscan nun, Joe studied Shamanism in Peru, and Trina is a Vietnamese energy healer and medical interpreter. Our group theme for the trip: trust and let go. We trusted God to guide us.

group pic - sedona

What was I seeking? I was seeking spiritual transformation. My first transformation was at the Chapel of the Holy Cross. This beautiful, little Catholic church was built in the red rocks. When I entered the chapel, I felt the presence of God. I could feel the energy of thousands of past visitors. As I sat on the simple wooden bench, I felt the mercy of God. The love and forgiveness of God swelled in my heart. God has mercy for all.

churchChapel of the Holy Cross

My next transformation was at the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park. A stupa is a Buddhist shrine. The park holds a large wooden statue of Buddha, a medicine wheel, and two Stupa’s; one masculine and one feminine. As I walked the grounds, my heart opened up like never before. I could feel my heart chakra – it was turning and turning. I couldn’t help but to cry. I could feel every wound that I have ever experienced in my life. I was grieving and letting go at the same time. I was purging everything that no longer serves me.

I had to walk by myself to process my feelings. I walked down to a ravine. I sat and meditated. As I sat on the grass, I could feel spirits all around me. I was not alone. I am never alone.

After spending some time by myself, I joined the group. We walked the medicine wheel. I connected with the energy and sacredness of our group.

stupa 33buddha 33

That evening (after visiting the Stupa), in my hotel room, I had an unusual experience. I was sleeping until a loud bang woke me up. The noise seemed to come from the wall. I thought maybe it was the pipes. Then I heard another noise near the bathroom. The noise was loud, and my body jumped when I heard it. Then I heard it, again, near the television. It was like energy was bouncing off the walls. The last bang that evening was two feet above my head near the headboard. I have never experienced anything like this before. I was scared. I had to breathe deeply and call on my guides.

I did not hear any banging noise during the rest of the trip. It is a mystery – I don’t know what was banging. I did feel challenged, and there is one lesson that I learned from this: I need a strong mind. I can develop a powerful mind through meditation and breathing exercises.

When I was on this trip, I thought a lot about relationships. It’s interesting that no matter where we are in life, our relationships come first before anything else. I remember hearing a story about a counselor who went to Haiti after the earthquake. She was there to help people process the tragedy but all the people wanted to talk about was their relationships.

At the end of the trip, I started to miss my husband. I realized that I have one person who cares about me and is there for me. Sedona has opened my eyes. I now see that I have taken my marriage for granted. I treasure my husband, and I want to become a more loving wife.

My next spiritual transformation was with a Native American guide. Joe, Trina, and I hired a Native American guide to talk about the land and lead us on a shamanic journey. We laid down on the warm, red rock as the Native American guide drummed for us. He told us to envision a bridge to a mountain. And when we got to the mountain, we would see a cave. He said that there was a bright light coming out of the cave, and inside the cave was a gift.

During my journey, I imagined a rope bridge that was partially invisible. When I arrived at the mountain, I saw the rock cave and a bright light coming out of it. I walked into the cave and saw a red, rectangle box on a table in the middle of the cave. I opened the box and a cosmic egg made of light surrounded me. This light balanced all of my chakras. Then I saw my wolf guide standing by the box. I asked the wolf his name. The wolf took his paw and wrote in the sand: SHIVA.

The Native American told me that it is a blessing to have the wolf as my guide. The wolf is a protector and leader. The wolf is good medicine.

NAMitakuye Oaysis – All my relations

Now that I am home, I am still in spiritual transformation. My heart is still opening up, and I can feel the holy fire of love igniting in my heart. I need to let this fire warm up my whole being and allow myself to feel. As one Sedona resident said to me, “It’s okay to feel.”

I trust God. Even though there is heartbreak in life, there is also beauty. I ask myself, “What do I want to see?” I am the artist of my life. What am I going to paint?

Sedona is a sacred place, and the vortexes are real. This energy of the vortex spins the heart chakra open. There is no hiding in Sedona. This holy place wants you to feel – to your core.

Namaste, world.

Chakra11

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Take Some Deep Breaths”

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deep-breathing.jpg

About two weeks ago, my mom was having health problems, and I had to call 911. It’s been about ten years since I called 911. I was a little shaken because my mom couldn’t walk. As I talked to the 911 operator, she told me, “Take some deep breaths.” I did as she asked and I felt much better afterwards. I just needed to hear those words: take some deep breaths.

In this emergency situation, my deep breathing was different than I expected. I inhaled into my nostrils and exhaled out my mouth. I remember puckering my lips as I exhaled – like blowing out candles. After breathing deeply, I was able to gain composure and continue with the call.

Deep breathing increases oxygen to the whole body. It is best to use the respiratory system to its fullest; especially in stressful situations. Deep breathing relaxes the body and mind.

Here is a breathing technique to help you reduce your stress and anxiety:

Deep Nostril Breathing and Mouth Exhalation Technique (taken from “Science of Breath: A Complete Manual of the Oriental Breathing Philosophy of Physical, Mental, Psychic and Spiritual Development,” by Yogi Ramacharaka):

  1. First focus on listening to your breathing (breath going in and out of your lungs).
  2. Once you have listened to your breathing for a few breath cycles, you should begin to scan your body to identify where tension and anxiety exist.
  3. Once you have identified tension and anxiety in a particular area and you are mindful of it, take a deep nostril breath, hold, and then exhale the breath through your mouth.
  4. Repeat this process several times until you are mindful of a reduction in tension in that area. Then shift your attention to other parts of the body where tension/anxiety exist and repeat the procedure.

I hope I will never have to call 911 again. But if I do, then I will remember to “take some deep breaths.” I know that increasing oxygen in my body will help me face the challenge before me.

May you go forward in peace.

Namaste, world.

breathe

Your breath touched my soul and I saw beyond all limits. —Rumi

 

 

 

Metta for All

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human beings

I like this quote written by Albert Einstein. It is true, we will never spiritually grow as a human species if we only love our circle of friends and family. I think we need to expand our thoughts and actions. On Facebook there is a quote by Coco Chanel:

done

The quote says, “I don’t think about you at all.” This statement is untrue. The mind thinks about EVERYTHING! As a human species, we need to stop and use our thoughts for the higher good. The ego will run with selfish thoughts.

I think the quote should say: “I care about you, and I think about you.”  This quote shows more love and concern. The quality of the quote has a higher vibration. Also, there is more inclusion. The original quote has exclusion and harshness.

In Buddhism, there is a word called, “Metta.” In English, it means “loving-kindness.” But there is another translation that has a higher spiritual resonance: “active interest in others.” When you show someone that you care about them and think about them – this is true Metta. Your presence and compassion create the spiritual leap we need as humans.

When I walk down a busy street, and I make no eye contact with other humans – this is not  Metta. When I walk down a street, and I make eye contact and chat with strangers – this is Metta.

When my coworker’s mother was just in the hospital, and I do not show concern or ask questions – this is not Metta. When my coworker just attended a funeral, and I express concern, ask questions, and offer help – this is Metta.

Metta is a priceless treasure that brings us into intimacy with ourselves and others. – Sharon Salzberg

I  have been practicing Metta for several weeks now. My main area of focus is in my work as a massage therapist. I have taken the time to show concern and ask questions about my clients. I decided not to talk about myself unless the client asks me questions. I put my whole focus on my clients.

There are several things that I noticed when I practice Metta. First, I enjoy asking questions and getting to know my clients (many who are strangers). Second, I look forward to going to work because I am making a difference in people’s lives. And third, when I practice Metta, life is much more vibrant and loving.

Metta reunites us with what it means to be alive and unbound. – Sharon Salzberg

May you share your Metta with all living creatures.

Namaste, world.

world healing

The Cosmic Dancer

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cosmic dancer

I went on a shamanic journey with the drum. My intention was to meet a spiritual guide, but my shamanic journey led me to what I needed to see and experience.

I started the journey on a frozen lake near my house. I looked out, and I could see a few ice houses and some frozen fishing holes. I was wearing my purple coat, black snow pants, hat and mittens. I walked towards a chosen fishing hole. As I walked towards the hole, my clothes started to transform. My outdoor clothes changed into a long, purple gown with a hood. It also had a train – like a wedding dress. As I got closer to the fishing hole, my blonde hair turned to black and my skin to dark brown. I found the hole, broke the layer of ice with my bare fist, and I jumped in with no fear.

I swam in the icy water; sinking with until I found the latch at the bottom of the lake. I opened the latch with ease. I entered the universal space. I floated down and down. I loved being a black woman. My skin was smooth, and I felt more beautiful than ever.

I floated down until I saw a hologram of Nelson Mandela. He was playing the Djembe drum. He sat with the drum between his legs. He played and watched me.

I started to dance with the drum beat. My long dress turned into a skirt with fringes. I twirled around and around until I saw a galaxy form around my waist and skirt. I could see the planets and the stars. I continued to twirl around and around.

I received a message: All human life began from an African woman. She is the first woman. She is the most beautiful human being. She is the cosmic dancer.

dancer 5

I continued to dance until I heard the “call back” of the drum. I stopped dancing, lifted upwards through the universal space, and back to the door with the latch. I opened the latch and swam to the open hole in the ice. I lifted myself out of the hole and started to walk back home. As I walked back home, my clothes transformed into my outerwear, and I was back to myself. The journey ended.

Oh cosmic dancer…

woman made of night…

you spin creation to your delight…

the drum beat of your heart…

the blood of your life…

you twirl and swirl with pleasure.

Oh cosmic dancer…

you call all sisters and brothers…

to listen to the drum beat of the heart…

cherish the blood of life…

dance with the woman made of night.

 

Namaste, world.

 

The Guest House – by Rumi

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girl

This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture, still, treat each guest honorably. He may be clearing you out for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice, meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.

By Rumi – a Sufi Poet – 1207 – Turkey

The Search for the “God Particle” Truth

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cern-07

Three nights ago I watched the documentary, “Particle Fever.” The movie was about the Higgs Boson or “God Particle.” The Higgs Boson’s discovery was at CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in 2012. LHC is the world’s most powerful particle accelerator/particle smasher in Geneva, Switzerland. CERN claims that they discovered the Higgs Boson, and I have mixed feelings about it. On the one hand, I agree that they found valuable information. On the other hand, I still insist that they need to provide more proof.

Higgs_Boson1

The Higgs particle is the missing link in the Standard Model of particle physics. It is the glue that holds together the particles. Without the Higgs Boson, the universe would have no physical matter – only energy.

higg cocktail party

My main questions are: Is the universe symmetrical/creative or chaotic/destructive? Is there order in the universe? The answer, according to the movie, is that the universe is both. It is the creator and destroyer. And there is order in the universe.

shiva 3

Nataraja, is a depiction of the Hindu God Shiva as the cosmic dancer who performs his divine dance to destroy a weary universe and make preparations for the God Brahma to start the process of creation. This statue sits outside of  CERN.

 

One physicist, in the movie said, “The universe must care about humans. It would be so easy to destroy us and our planet.” The universe wants us to exist. We have symmetry and order. But for how long?

I think the physicists at CERN has discovered something unexplainable. The researchers and physicists are still trying to figure it out. They have years of data to go through. I think humans will understand more about the universe in the future.

I am interested in quantum mechanics. Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics tells us how atoms work. The principles of quantum mechanics state that particles change or collapse when observed. I wonder if observing the particle collision at CERN changed the outcome. Unobserved quantum phenomena are different from observed ones. The question then is: Do we have mass in the universe or just particles (energy)? Maybe the physicists at CERN did not discover the “God Particle” after all.

 quantum-mechanics1

Namaste, world.

 

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The Silver Wolf

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riding a wolf

“If you can think for a moment of the outer world and the inner world as being the physical and the spiritual, both equally real and important, then you can begin to open to both simultaneously.”  – Barbara H. Davis

A week ago I had a dream of riding on the back of a silver wolf. The wolf was larger than most wolves. I held onto his nape as we rode through the forest. We were running in darkness, and I could not see the trees. I remember holding on tight to his silver fur – everything else was a blur.

I asked myself, “Why did I dream of riding a wolf?” I was going to look up wolf mythology, but I decided to interpret the dream myself.

I remember the feelings. There was an urgency as we rode – like something was chasing us. I remember feelings of kinship with the wolf – like we were old friends. I trusted the wolf and I had no fear while I was riding him.

The wolf symbolizes strength, protection, and transformation. The wolf can empower others. When I rode the wolf, we became a team. In my dream, it was natural to ride a wolf.

Riding into the unknown is how I felt as I rode on the back of the wolf. I was not apprehensive. I was trusting. Riding the wolf is like life. I need to trust the journey. I may not know where I am going but I hold on for dear life.

I believe the wolf the came into my subconscious mind to remind me of my connection to the wolf. I can become like the wolf. I connect to the land and also to the sky.

wolf

For each creature, there seems to be a mundane life – but this is where I make the mistake. There is a mystical side to every living thing. As a human being, my body connects to the earth and my mind connects to the sky. The God essence resides in every living creature.

I had another vision of the silver wolf during a meditation. The wolf and I were walking in the woods – side by side. I felt companionship with the wolf. I felt like the wolf cared about me.

In this world of indifference, it is important to care for people. When you care about someone it shows real love from the heart. Everyone on the earth, can find the wolf as an example of loyalty, companionship, and a caring heart.

Oh Silver Wolf,

let me ride your true nature.

We ride into the light of love.

You care for me in ways I have unknown.

Your loyalty is eternal.

Walking side by side,

you are the shadow I have earned.

– GG

Wolf by Brenna3

Namaste, world.