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Happy July 3, 2023 – Mindfulness & Flow: International Drop a Rock Day
Good Morning Yogis! We are in the middle of a special Santosha and Mindfulness Summer Fun Month to align with July’s Anti-Boredom Month. I have heard if we focus on the past we will be depressed, if we focus on the future we will be anxious, and the key to joy is living in the present moment. A couple of the Yamas and Niyamas reflect this secret of happiness hidden in the “now”.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is central to a number of eastern religions and philosophies, and is becoming a common theme in western therapy, psychology, and self-help. We have also focused on mindfulness in some of our past daily practices, especially on past Santosha Days and with some focused meditation practices. Mindfulness and losing oneself in the current moment is my idea of “finding flow” that we most commonly experience during “getting in the zone” during particular athletic, work, and artistic activities. Zen Buddhism takes this concept further with Zen Arts such as Tea Ceremony, Archery, Painting, and Flower Arrangement. So, we will focus this month on trying different practices and activities (including some Zen Arts!) to at minimum beat boredom for Anti-Boredom Month, and hopefully help you experience a flow state.
Today’s Positive Practice suggestion
Today’s Daily Yogi Practice is to try today’s Anti-Boredom / mindfulness / flow Activity: Making and Dropping a Painted Rock for International Drop a Rock Day! Make sure to practice mindfulness and try to enjoy each day’s practice with all five senses. Learn ideas, techniques, and best products for painted rocks here! Make sure to use smooth rocks, and wash with soap and water and allow to dry fully before painting. You will likely want newspaper to keep your area clean, as well as acrylic paint and paint brushes. Make sure to use sealant after painting and before dropping out in the world for others to enjoy! Today’s practice may be more fun than flow, but it is a good opportunity to practice Aparigraha or Non-Attachment as we leave our creations in the world, or shrug off any mistakes.
We started this month with a deep dive of the Zen Tea Ceremony, but today is a more simple activity. Tea and other beverage recommendations from our intro had enough varieties to suit nearly everyone, but some of our practices this month will not be a good fit for you.. that’s okay! If today’s practice is not for you, try a craft of your choice, or go back and try another personal Tea Ceremony today!
Try to calmly take notice when your thoughts drift back to the past or forward to the future. Try to bring yourself back to and fully immerse yourself in the present moment by focusing on the sight, sounds, smells, taste, or feel of your surroundings.
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More Positive Practices
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Share your Practice
Please comment and share your experience with today’s practice. Were you able to find flow or contentment in the now? Always remember, be kind!