Aligning with the Direct Path
We can move our bodies. We can shape our bodies. Just as I can refine an intellectual position through observation, research, learning, and reflection, I have the ability—indeed, it is my birthright—to refine my bodily position. Through this movement, through this project, I can actively receive, with much less static and opposition, the Divine—or, as it is termed in the Gita: Cosmic Nature. It’s beautiful, isn’t it? It’s hard work! My tailbone really loves to jut out.
It is clear that the body seeks to be aligned—it isn’t simply for symmetry with itself, but with the Self. Imagine you are given the most beautiful orchid—would you force it into a pot that strangles its stem and crushes its flower? This is what I do to ‘my’ Self, my soul, my connection to Cosmic Nature when I contort the body—(voluntarily! I’ve voluntarily sent myself to Dante’s hell!!)—and strangle the spine.
Tantra, after all, is using the body to transcend the body. It is our Nature.
Therefore, let us begin a gradual and mindful untangling. I am inviting you, whomever you are who is also seeking communion, and I am calling—with steady devotion—for the inner guru to reveal to each step that guides the unfolding.
I’d like to share my practice with you. Perhaps you might share your practice with me. Together we might create a virtual ashram and support our own each other’s efforts to achieve union.
Paradoxically, the direct path to Divine Union—if we are to follow the ashtanga (eight-fold) Yoga—begins with the restraints: Yamas and Niyamas. Restraint requires mindfulness, it does not necessarily mean holding back in a negative sense by pushing our impulses deep into the back our minds or the pit of the gut. It is a conscious redirection of the impulses, tendencies, thoughts, and habit patterns so that they work in service of the Self rather than tossing you around as a fool while simultaneously strangling the Self. By practicing the restraints we gradually pull back the veil concealing the Self.
How might we begin to embody the principle of ahimsa (non-harming)? I would love to hear your thoughts. Hari Om Tat Sat.
Particular Notes on a Practice 
I could begin to embody ahimsa by withholding judgment toward other people. Unfortunately, it comes quite naturally. I need to write it on my hand or something every day to remind myself – be more mindful of it. Tx!
Oh! I know! It’s so easy to forget! Love and prayers to you, Leila-san. xoxo ❤
In loving and nurturing myself in small committed ways everyday I choose for ahimsa towards my glorious self. This nurturing for me includes consciously restraining from reading newspapers and watching tv, lovingly watering my plants every morning, eating fruit everyday….and smiling a lot, amongst other things:)
Great to see a post from you again Marie!:)Thank you for sharing.
Yasmeen, Thank you very much for your comments. I am working to re-establish my routine so inshallah it will not be so long before my next post. 🙂
Take care!
Kelly
Dear Kelly-ji
Long time its been since I had a word with you and it seems you are lately busy hence you have decreased writing …. looking forward for new posts ssoon. Let me know if you have Twitter.
You are right! It has been a very very busy year. I am in the midst of yet another move–this time to New York City. Once I get settled there, I will get back into my writing routine. Thank you for checking in on me. How are you? 🙂
I find it really interesting that your writings has given a new dimension to reflect my views
via writing,as I remember I started writing at WordPress after I read your marvelous writings,
not only that I have never ever met you in person but again that’s the charismatic power of
internet,but I have always found your writings very close, reasons can be many , you have
been to Rishekesh and you write about spirituality and yoga.
I find my self very close to both but none of these matter ‘than your reflections’ and
‘acceptance of strangers’ – to not only appreciate,question but even to reflect their own
ideas and hence you have always been a perfect pen friend , I wish you good luck with your
move 🙂 and I hope to see you writing once you settle,meanwhile do take care.
I am doing better but still I feel there is a lot of improvement required for certain things if
I have to accomplish.
P.S. My Favs also include blogs about your Egypt experiences , your interview with
a Pak lady, your expeditions to hills in Japan and last not the least Lego store B) –
forgive me if I have over written something , you know I have studied English as second
language.
For those who don’t know what I wrote feel free to ask Kelly-ji. 😉
say hello to everyone in your family.
Vaibhav, Thank you so much for your kind words. Thank you for nudging me back toward my work. I look forward to meeting you in person some day in the future! I hope to post a new article within the week. I’m glad you enjoyed the Lego store video!!!! 🙂
Yours,
Kelly