04/30/2021
Part 2 of 4 - Gratitude series! Part 1 on Instagram.
Can we return to our roots and develop a deep relationship to the natural world? Indigenous peoples knew the importance of a gratitude practice, thanks is woven into daily life, knowledge of the interconnectedness of all things, our relationship to the natural world is suppose to be a symbiotic one. Sadly, our relationship with the natural world is fractured and it's having serious consequence.
I can begin the change within myself. The questions are complex but the answers are usually simple. Give more than you take especially in regards to mother earth and resources. Learn about the natural world and the cycles of life by observation and research, we are lucky to have such information at our fingertips.
I believe the self reflection practices of yoga ask of us to take responsibility for our actions. Actions = Consequences, those consequences can work for the better good of the planet for future generations to enjoy heaven on earth OR... we can leave a waste land full of trash, flashing lights, concrete and breathing problems... We can preach and curate our Instagram and FB feeds or we can act (we can do both)!
Okay - A small act you can do right now! Begin a daily gratitude practice of some kind especially one centered around the natural world. I truly believe this can help you shift your mindset and the symptom of the practice will inspire you to make different decisions. Perhaps decisions that are more beneficial to the planet instead of destructive and harmful.
Are you practicing yoga? The yamas are an important foundation.
Meditate on your understanding of these terms and how they relate to this topic of conversation. Hint: Everything is connected so there are many many angles you could take.
Ahimsa - Non harming, causing the least amount of harm in action, word and deed.
Satya - Truth, speak and act with intention, regarding your highest truth, speaking and living in a honest way that causes the least amount of harm.
Asteya - Non stealing, taking more than you need is a form of stealing, not giving proper credit where due is a form of stealing, being wasteful is stealing.
Bramacharya - right use of energy, similar to Asteya but with your energy, referring also to sexual restraint, keeping God in mind in all actions. (insert your choice for Great Spirit, Cosmic parent here ^)
Aparigraha - Non hoarding, or non attachment, forgiveness, in todays conversation realizing nothing belongs to us, we are apart of it not in charge of it... A gazillion deaths will happen within our lifetime, each one shedding a part of the illusion.
If you are interested look up the Thanksgiving address and use it to inspire you in your gratitude practice.
I welcome your thoughts, comments and input!
Stay shiny friends ~*~ xo Shamron
This video explores aspects of the Thanksgiving Address and the ways that the Haudenosaunee give thanks to the different elements of the environment. The goa...
