Hope you are well and enjoying your Sunday. A couple of thoughts for today.
Our practice:
As I was practicing with some of you today it occurred to me how many forward folds we do in a practice (standing and seated). Other than being a great hamstring stretch and back stretch, I went back to my training materials to remember why we do so many!
1. Physical
As we know, the forward fold stretches the hamstrings, but it really gives a full stretch to the whole back side of the body. the seated fold that we do called pashimottanasana stretches the heels, calves, hamstrings, hips, lower back, upper back, and shoulders! Standing forward folds are a go-to pose if you want to release tension in your neck, upper or lower back.
2. Physiological
The forward folds are also beneficial in massaging internal abdominal organs and thus aid in improving digestion and speeding metabolism.
3. Psychological
An article I found today at Kesha yoga also mentions that forward folds “take us into our past, giving us opportunities to introspect and resolve deep psychological issues which over time have become lodged in the joints, muscles, organs and other tissues of our bodies. They activate the second chakra – swadhishthana chakra – located at the level of the sacrum, pelvis, hips and groin. Swadhishthana chakra corresponds to our relationships with our children, and with our romantic and business partners. When we practice forward bends, we are often confronted with past karmas relating to these people. These karmas result in physical and emotional restrictions that can hold us back from fully expressing our creativity and sexuality. By noting the sensations and emotions that arise during forward bending without judging, denying or running away from them, we purify the second chakra. Forward bending offers a chance to reflect on and heal the past, leaving you free to move forward effortlessly into the future.”
That third one gave me much to think about and I decided that I need to pay much closer attention during my forward folding practice. There is so much to be said for the mind body connection, I look forward to further study on this topic. Would love to hear your thoughts.
Nurturing through Food/Recipes
I have been trying to eat even more plant based than ever, but am also challenged with finding new and different things as an alternative to my “soup and salad“ lunch routine. I had a version of this chick pea salad sandwich several years ago (actually at the memorial celebration of my Dad’s life-the caterer made it for me and the other vegetarian guests) and have adapted it slightly for my own taste. The original recipe I used when I was trying to duplicate it was from the website Minimalist Baker.
Chick Pea Salad
*1 15 ounce can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
• 1 Tablespoon roasted unsalted Sunflower seeds (optional)
• 3 Tbsp tahini
• 1 tsp dijon or spicy mustard
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup (or sub agave or honey if not vegan)
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced pickle
• 1 tablesppon capers drained and loosely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
• sea salt and black pepper to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives/roasted red pepper (both optional)
Put the chick peas in bowl and mash with fork but leave a few whole ones (I like mine a little chunky). Add everything else and mix to incorporate, adjust seasoning. this can be served on a bed of greens or is really great on toasted rustic bread with sliced avocado, sliced red onion, tomato and lettuce (I like arugula).
Meditation
Several times over the past couple of weeks I have read you quotes from the book Buddha’s Brain by Rick Hanson. I was leafing through it today after class and came to a passage that I had underlined during my first read through, “”the remedy is not to suppress negative experiences; when they happen, they happen. Rather, it is to foster positive experiences-and in particular, to take them in so they become a permanent part of you”. Perhaps lets ponder that this week.
Look forward to seeing you all at class this week if you are able. I may be a little challenged as my laptop came to a dire end with a cup of chai earlier today - so we will be zooming with my iPad till my replacement arrives!! I have launched the YouTube page Rockbriar Farm but so far only have one class (core strengthener) uploaded. If the aforementioned lap top issue had not happened two more would be there as well! Stay tuned. In the meantime, please share the posts on FB and instagram as you see fit, I appreciate it as well as the word of mouth referrals as I try to build our community.
Namaste
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