KALI MOONS: The Hunger Moon
Initiation
Mantra
Week 1
New Moon Ritual
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Ayurveda/Recipes
Full Moon Practice
Full Moon Community Call
Further Study for February
Conversation:
Vulnerable Masculine
with Thomas Radtke
Vulnerable Masculine
with Thomas Radtke
Initiation
February Initiation
READ: February VISIONARY Journal
Mantra
Mahashakti Gayatri Mantra
The creative Source is manifest within all things.
The universe, Earth, Nature, your body…your mind…are all sacred expressions of the One.
The universe, Earth, Nature, your body…your mind…are all sacred expressions of the One.
CHANT: MANTRA—Mahashakti Gayatri
Shakti Yantra
ॐ
ब्रह्मण्यै च विद्महे:
महाशक्त्यै च धीमहि:
तन्नो देवी प्रचोदयात्.
om
brahmanyai ca vidmahe
mahashaktyai ca dīmahi
tano devī prachodayāt
may we realize the God/dess as infinite consciousness
may we meditate on Mahashakti, the all pervading supreme power
may Devi, the radiant one, illuminate our path and awaken us.
(Mahashakti Gayatri Mantra as translated at the SYDA foundation)
When we recognize the God/dess as infinite consciousness, we mean that the creativeSource is manifest within all things. The universe, Earth, Nature, your body…your mind…are all sacred expressions of the One.
Your body, soul, and spirit are all aspects of a singular whole.
NOTE: You can also find this translation on the first page (the Invocation) of your February Kali Journal.
ब्रह्मण्यै च विद्महे:
महाशक्त्यै च धीमहि:
तन्नो देवी प्रचोदयात्.
om
brahmanyai ca vidmahe
mahashaktyai ca dīmahi
tano devī prachodayāt
may we realize the God/dess as infinite consciousness
may we meditate on Mahashakti, the all pervading supreme power
may Devi, the radiant one, illuminate our path and awaken us.
(Mahashakti Gayatri Mantra as translated at the SYDA foundation)
When we recognize the God/dess as infinite consciousness, we mean that the creativeSource is manifest within all things. The universe, Earth, Nature, your body…your mind…are all sacred expressions of the One.
Your body, soul, and spirit are all aspects of a singular whole.
NOTE: You can also find this translation on the first page (the Invocation) of your February Kali Journal.
Week 1
Week 1: Sacred Marriage of Root & Crown
(Please review your February Journal for full content.)
You have a passion project—a specific goal you are ready to achieve.
Now it is time to take action!
Did those words make you feel uneasy or apprehensive?
Where does this apprehension come from?
Typically, we balk at the thought of doing something new, stepping forward with a goal, or asserting our ideas because of FEAR.
With all the shadow work we have encountered together, you are probably feeling very familiar with the value of facing your fears. But the limiting voices that keep you from moving forward can be very sneaky. Their whispers may be barely audible, so that you are not even sure WHAT IS holding you back.
What if instead of trying to completely shame and destroy your fear, you look at fear as an amazing creative force of your imagination? —Stories that can actually propel you forward.
Fear stories make you curious. They focus your attention on questions like: “What is the worst that can happen?” and “What will happen next?” If you listen to your fear from a balanced and centered place of mindful awareness (instead of emotional reactivity) your fears can inspire you to take your next step.
In his 2017 TED talk, Tim Ferriss how to define your fears and actual use them to take action.
He teaches how to decrease emotional reactivity with these three clues:
Recognize what you cannot control and focus on what you CAN.
Realize that “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” —Seneca
Go ahead and envision the worse case scenarios holding you back…and what will happen if you do NOT take action.
He created a written exercise he calls “Fear Setting” (instead of goal-setting, get it?).
I've outlined the exercise Eleven Moons style in your August journal. Here is the video:
Now it is time to take action!
Did those words make you feel uneasy or apprehensive?
Where does this apprehension come from?
Typically, we balk at the thought of doing something new, stepping forward with a goal, or asserting our ideas because of FEAR.
With all the shadow work we have encountered together, you are probably feeling very familiar with the value of facing your fears. But the limiting voices that keep you from moving forward can be very sneaky. Their whispers may be barely audible, so that you are not even sure WHAT IS holding you back.
What if instead of trying to completely shame and destroy your fear, you look at fear as an amazing creative force of your imagination? —Stories that can actually propel you forward.
Fear stories make you curious. They focus your attention on questions like: “What is the worst that can happen?” and “What will happen next?” If you listen to your fear from a balanced and centered place of mindful awareness (instead of emotional reactivity) your fears can inspire you to take your next step.
In his 2017 TED talk, Tim Ferriss how to define your fears and actual use them to take action.
He teaches how to decrease emotional reactivity with these three clues:
Recognize what you cannot control and focus on what you CAN.
Realize that “We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.” —Seneca
Go ahead and envision the worse case scenarios holding you back…and what will happen if you do NOT take action.
He created a written exercise he calls “Fear Setting” (instead of goal-setting, get it?).
I've outlined the exercise Eleven Moons style in your August journal. Here is the video:
What happens when you truly allow yourself to remember that you are both body and spirit?
What becomes of your fear?
What becomes of your fear?
Once we understand the symbology of Kālī, she is no longer a fearsome image, but one of great beauty. She is the vision of liberation from fear and death. She symbolizes the radical freedom that comes when we let go of attachment and aversions.
Kali’s enlightened devotees see beyond literal death to the death of values rooted in fear. It is only when we can come to accept death as a necessary step in our own transformation that Kali can dance her dance of perpetual becoming, only then that those who love her are free of their fear of death, free to be comfortable with their own vulnerability, free to live her mystery (Woodman and Dickson 16).
The vision of Kālī invites us to rise up and out of the depths of fear. We can realize that all fear comes from attachment and aversion; wanting to conquer the unknown mystery. As soon as we trust completely in the power of a Love beyond all opposition, we begin to move toward balance at the center of the heart. We embrace the unknown mystery with courage.
Kali’s enlightened devotees see beyond literal death to the death of values rooted in fear. It is only when we can come to accept death as a necessary step in our own transformation that Kali can dance her dance of perpetual becoming, only then that those who love her are free of their fear of death, free to be comfortable with their own vulnerability, free to live her mystery (Woodman and Dickson 16).
The vision of Kālī invites us to rise up and out of the depths of fear. We can realize that all fear comes from attachment and aversion; wanting to conquer the unknown mystery. As soon as we trust completely in the power of a Love beyond all opposition, we begin to move toward balance at the center of the heart. We embrace the unknown mystery with courage.
Soul Artist Questions
1. What is your relationship with the archetypal image of Kālī?
2. Does an awareness of her symbolism change the way you see her?
3. Can you truly envision yourself as both body and spirit?
4. What is your experience with the concept of soul as embodied spirit?
5. Can you envision a LOVE so pervasive that it envelopes your fear?
6. What does that Love look like?
7. What does it feel like?
2. Does an awareness of her symbolism change the way you see her?
3. Can you truly envision yourself as both body and spirit?
4. What is your experience with the concept of soul as embodied spirit?
5. Can you envision a LOVE so pervasive that it envelopes your fear?
6. What does that Love look like?
7. What does it feel like?
SHARE:
Together, we create community. Please share your answers below.
2018 COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS
"I find the image of Kali a bit frightening. My life has provided numerous experiences of the archetypal purpose of Kali. Knowledge of the symbolism brings no beauty. I have long delighted in my soul and oversoul as spirit, starting in Yellow Springs Ohio when I joined a group studying the Seth materials.I am moving toward envisioning a LOVE so great as to dissolve fear. However, the current state of fear in the Planet, Gaia is overwhelming. I cannot conceive a way to help suffering souls beyond my meditations toward that aim.”
—B.W. Oahu, HI.
2/17/2018 09:13:58 am "Your response is beautiful and deeply felt. Often when people talk about love and fear, they are really referring to "attachment and aversion." In other words, attachment to things that seem good and beautiful feels like love; while aversion from things that are destructive and challenging feels like fear. There are times for healthy attachment (as in motherhood) and there are times when fear is helpattachmful (like when you have to jump out of the way of a moving vehicle).
Continue to open to the idea of a Love beyond all opposites. For me, it began when I truly realized that the Source of my Love is not external. In other words, although I love my daughter more than words can say, she is not the Source of my Love. There is a LOVE beyond all attachment and aversion (that indeed includes the experiences of both).
Once you awaken to that LOVE, there is no unseeing it. ♥"
LOVE to you!
—R.R. Shakti
2/20/2018 12:28:35 pm
"Kali's images, even long before I knew anything about the significance of her symbolism, never scared me. I'm not totally sure why. I was ALWAYS drawn to her. In yoga classes when teachers would call on her essence to help students in open-mouthed exhales I would feel alive, connected, engaged, powerful.
My path is one of grounded experience of spirit. It took me so long (21-26 years) to spend more time inside of my body than outside of my body, that I experienced the embodied soul as not concept but accurate - sort of like "yep, I remember" - description of the reality of life.
Can I imagine a love so pervasive it envelopes fear? Absolutely.
What does it look like? Human rights, respect for life in all its forms, warm expansive outreached arms that accept all... With gratitude, compassion and kindness. Limitless. I feel it sometimes when I meditate, or practice Asana. Profound. Expansive. True."
—R.P. Rollinsville CO.
"I find the image of Kali a bit frightening. My life has provided numerous experiences of the archetypal purpose of Kali. Knowledge of the symbolism brings no beauty. I have long delighted in my soul and oversoul as spirit, starting in Yellow Springs Ohio when I joined a group studying the Seth materials.I am moving toward envisioning a LOVE so great as to dissolve fear. However, the current state of fear in the Planet, Gaia is overwhelming. I cannot conceive a way to help suffering souls beyond my meditations toward that aim.”
—B.W. Oahu, HI.
2/17/2018 09:13:58 am "Your response is beautiful and deeply felt. Often when people talk about love and fear, they are really referring to "attachment and aversion." In other words, attachment to things that seem good and beautiful feels like love; while aversion from things that are destructive and challenging feels like fear. There are times for healthy attachment (as in motherhood) and there are times when fear is helpattachmful (like when you have to jump out of the way of a moving vehicle).
Continue to open to the idea of a Love beyond all opposites. For me, it began when I truly realized that the Source of my Love is not external. In other words, although I love my daughter more than words can say, she is not the Source of my Love. There is a LOVE beyond all attachment and aversion (that indeed includes the experiences of both).
Once you awaken to that LOVE, there is no unseeing it. ♥"
LOVE to you!
—R.R. Shakti
2/20/2018 12:28:35 pm
"Kali's images, even long before I knew anything about the significance of her symbolism, never scared me. I'm not totally sure why. I was ALWAYS drawn to her. In yoga classes when teachers would call on her essence to help students in open-mouthed exhales I would feel alive, connected, engaged, powerful.
My path is one of grounded experience of spirit. It took me so long (21-26 years) to spend more time inside of my body than outside of my body, that I experienced the embodied soul as not concept but accurate - sort of like "yep, I remember" - description of the reality of life.
Can I imagine a love so pervasive it envelopes fear? Absolutely.
What does it look like? Human rights, respect for life in all its forms, warm expansive outreached arms that accept all... With gratitude, compassion and kindness. Limitless. I feel it sometimes when I meditate, or practice Asana. Profound. Expansive. True."
—R.P. Rollinsville CO.
New Moon Ritual
February New Moon Ritual
The new moon is a sacred time to turn inward and listen to the creative power of your visionary heart. The heart has been considered the point of the archetypal union of all duality. While alchemists call this the hierosgamos (sacred marriage), Yogis recognize this union as Yoga.
In alchemy, the duality is symbolized by Sol and Luna (the sun and the moon). It is visualized as the merging of fire and water. Similarly, the Svadhisthana chakra, which is associated with water, and the Ajna chakra, which is associated with light, may be envisioned joining at the heart center in a marriage of water and fire.
From the level of the psyche, we can embrace this union as the integration of higher and deeper awareness. Honor both your rational, intellectual reasoning AND the irrational wisdom of your body. Bring both into the sphere of your heart, (the still point of Love beyond duality) where you can expand your emotional intelligence to new-found levels of courage and compassion for yourself and other beings.
The purpose of the Tantrik practice is the reunion of the sun and moon within one’s own body where, on a subtle level, divine forces may be awakened and experienced (Eliade, Yoga 135). It is an earth-embracing, life-affirming, EMBODIED experience that the yogin refers to as samyama: when the lover, the beloved and Love itself merge into one pulsation.
In alchemy, the duality is symbolized by Sol and Luna (the sun and the moon). It is visualized as the merging of fire and water. Similarly, the Svadhisthana chakra, which is associated with water, and the Ajna chakra, which is associated with light, may be envisioned joining at the heart center in a marriage of water and fire.
From the level of the psyche, we can embrace this union as the integration of higher and deeper awareness. Honor both your rational, intellectual reasoning AND the irrational wisdom of your body. Bring both into the sphere of your heart, (the still point of Love beyond duality) where you can expand your emotional intelligence to new-found levels of courage and compassion for yourself and other beings.
The purpose of the Tantrik practice is the reunion of the sun and moon within one’s own body where, on a subtle level, divine forces may be awakened and experienced (Eliade, Yoga 135). It is an earth-embracing, life-affirming, EMBODIED experience that the yogin refers to as samyama: when the lover, the beloved and Love itself merge into one pulsation.
PREPARE: New Moon Ritual Checklist
Preparation for the February NEW MOON RITUAL page 57
- your altar
- water and fire
- room to move
- your journal for writing/creating
- writing/coloring tools
- Mantra: So'ham, A’ham.
Preparation for the February NEW MOON RITUAL page 57
LISTEN & CREATE: Active Imagination: Rituals of Aesthetic
WATCH: A Little Encouragement
For best video streaming, please be sure you have a strong internet signal and that all other applications are closed.
SOUL ARTIST QUESTIONS
1. How was the February New Moon Ritual for you?
2. Was it easy, or challenging, to trust your body?
3. Was it easy, or challenging, to trust your imagination?
4. Did you find yourself more comfortable bringing awareness to any one center: pelvis, heart, or head?
5. Do you tend to favor one way of gathering information: sensation, feeling, or thinking?
2. Was it easy, or challenging, to trust your body?
3. Was it easy, or challenging, to trust your imagination?
4. Did you find yourself more comfortable bringing awareness to any one center: pelvis, heart, or head?
5. Do you tend to favor one way of gathering information: sensation, feeling, or thinking?
I would be so honored and excited to see your image.
Please use instagram or Facebook to post the drawing you have created.
Be sure to #elevenmoons and #rrshakti, so that we all can find it! Thank you.
Please use instagram or Facebook to post the drawing you have created.
Be sure to #elevenmoons and #rrshakti, so that we all can find it! Thank you.
SHARE:
Together, we create community. Please share your answers and artwork below.
2018 COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS
2/18/2018 08:40:12 pm
The New Moon Ritual gave me a new way to approach an issue I have been working with. While spiraling energy from my [sexual] chakra upwards, to my surprise; it blocked between my heart and throat chakras, then proceeded to ajna and crown chakras, almost looping past them. Body movements were soft, a bit restricted. I never feel a lack of imagination, being a visual person. My Heart chakra was the most comfortable to bring awareness to. I tend to favor gathering information through my senses. This can seem like a dichotomy because my mind is very busy.
B. Wynn, Oahu HI
2/18/2018 08:40:12 pm
The New Moon Ritual gave me a new way to approach an issue I have been working with. While spiraling energy from my [sexual] chakra upwards, to my surprise; it blocked between my heart and throat chakras, then proceeded to ajna and crown chakras, almost looping past them. Body movements were soft, a bit restricted. I never feel a lack of imagination, being a visual person. My Heart chakra was the most comfortable to bring awareness to. I tend to favor gathering information through my senses. This can seem like a dichotomy because my mind is very busy.
B. Wynn, Oahu HI
Week 2
Week 2: Higher & Deeper Awareness
(Please review your February Journal for full content.)
Unite your higher awareness and your deeper, gut-level wisdom. Bring them to balance at the center of your being—to awaken your Visionary Heart.
This week, we continue to unite the lower chakras with the upper chakras as we climb toward heart-centered balance. Sahasrara chakra, at the subtle energy level of your sex organs governs sensuality and creativity. It is also the seat of deeper somatic intelligence—creative and destructive impulses, primal instincts, and the “gut feeling” that provides valuable guidance if you listen. The question is: “Can you hear it?”
For a long time, our culture has glazed over the body’s wisdom, preferring to value only the logic and reason of our intellectual mind. Unfortunately for many of us, loss of somatic connection has led us to spiral through the confusion of mental and emotional processing without roots to recognize the deepest truths they hold.
It is time to challenge what the world calls "irrational," because the body has an intelligence that is beyond rationality—beyond all reason.
Honor your body for its inherent wisdom. Listen.
You are invited to listen to both your higher awareness and your deeper, gut-level wisdom. Unite your intellect and insight, emotion and sensation—bring them to balance at the center of your being—to awaken your Visionary Heart.
For a long time, our culture has glazed over the body’s wisdom, preferring to value only the logic and reason of our intellectual mind. Unfortunately for many of us, loss of somatic connection has led us to spiral through the confusion of mental and emotional processing without roots to recognize the deepest truths they hold.
It is time to challenge what the world calls "irrational," because the body has an intelligence that is beyond rationality—beyond all reason.
Honor your body for its inherent wisdom. Listen.
You are invited to listen to both your higher awareness and your deeper, gut-level wisdom. Unite your intellect and insight, emotion and sensation—bring them to balance at the center of your being—to awaken your Visionary Heart.
Week 3
Week 3: The Power of Your Speech
(Please review your February Journal for full content.)
"The process of becoming a conscious manifestor is, at the end of the day, a process of awakening. You're awakening to your true self: the role of creator in this world."
– Emilia Carlotta Caverzasio
This week is about creating boundaries and letting go of all the things that don't serve to make room for the things that DO!
– Emilia Carlotta Caverzasio
This week is about creating boundaries and letting go of all the things that don't serve to make room for the things that DO!
Unifying your discerning choices of “Yes” and “No,” with the creative power of your speech means fully, lovingly, and clearly expressing your authentic Self.
As you may have experienced, somatic awakening to the body’s wisdom may begin as feelings of sadness or anger welling up from the depths of your being.
We all have these emotions, and most of us do everything we can to suppress them.
Many of us have learned to deny these emotions from a very young age.
As a result, those emotions are often the first to bubble up when you take a moment to really listen to your body.
Last month, when we past through the Manipura chakra (the 5th Gate) on our Underworld descent, we found a drama dynamic at play. Feelings of anger, judgement, and hurt grow out of our interactive experiences of Persecutor, Rescuer and Victim. We also, learned, however, how to turn this dynamic around to become empowered individuals, enjoying a meaningful relationship with the world around us.
Turning the dynamic around means shifting the “Persecutor” into a “Challenger,” and the enabling “Rescuer” into a motivational “Coach.” The “Victim” becomes an empowered “Creator.” This new perspective of Inner Power begins when we clearly express our boundaries without judgement, shame, or guilt. We remember that true power does not come from an outside source, but is within us. It is cultivated by our own beliefs, choices, actions, and words.
Judgements of “good” and “bad” lead to attachment and aversion: the two sources of suffering according to Yoga and Buddhist Wisdom. In order to free ourselves of those limiting and painful accusations, we must turn judgement into discernment. That means choices of “yes” and “no—” empowered decision you make for your balanced Self.
We all have these emotions, and most of us do everything we can to suppress them.
Many of us have learned to deny these emotions from a very young age.
As a result, those emotions are often the first to bubble up when you take a moment to really listen to your body.
Last month, when we past through the Manipura chakra (the 5th Gate) on our Underworld descent, we found a drama dynamic at play. Feelings of anger, judgement, and hurt grow out of our interactive experiences of Persecutor, Rescuer and Victim. We also, learned, however, how to turn this dynamic around to become empowered individuals, enjoying a meaningful relationship with the world around us.
Turning the dynamic around means shifting the “Persecutor” into a “Challenger,” and the enabling “Rescuer” into a motivational “Coach.” The “Victim” becomes an empowered “Creator.” This new perspective of Inner Power begins when we clearly express our boundaries without judgement, shame, or guilt. We remember that true power does not come from an outside source, but is within us. It is cultivated by our own beliefs, choices, actions, and words.
Judgements of “good” and “bad” lead to attachment and aversion: the two sources of suffering according to Yoga and Buddhist Wisdom. In order to free ourselves of those limiting and painful accusations, we must turn judgement into discernment. That means choices of “yes” and “no—” empowered decision you make for your balanced Self.
Soul Artist Questions & Action Steps
1. Do you tend to judge things as “Good,” and “Bad” (for everyone) when you could instead discern if something is a “Yes” or a “No” (for you).
2. Is there anything in your life that was once a “Yes,” that you are realizing is now a “No?”
3. Conversely is there anything that was a “No” in the past that you are ready to say “Yes” to?
4. Do you hesitate saying “Yes?” Why? What would it look and feel like to say a full, honest, and open, “YES!”
5. Do you have a hard time saying “No?” Why? What would it look and feel like to say a complete, loving, and clear “NO.”
6. TAKE THESE STEPS THIS WEEK. Use your action partner to practice.
7. …and let us know about the experience. (Let’s support each other as we step powerfully and courageously into our creative voices!)
2. Is there anything in your life that was once a “Yes,” that you are realizing is now a “No?”
3. Conversely is there anything that was a “No” in the past that you are ready to say “Yes” to?
4. Do you hesitate saying “Yes?” Why? What would it look and feel like to say a full, honest, and open, “YES!”
5. Do you have a hard time saying “No?” Why? What would it look and feel like to say a complete, loving, and clear “NO.”
6. TAKE THESE STEPS THIS WEEK. Use your action partner to practice.
7. …and let us know about the experience. (Let’s support each other as we step powerfully and courageously into our creative voices!)
SHARE:
Together, we create community. Please share your answers below.
2018 COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS
2/20/2018 01:14:50 pm
I am recognizing my own already-walked-continuing-to-walk-forever-will-be-walking path in this month's teachings. <3
Good and bad used to be all the things for me. How I ran my life and mind...
In addition to grounding and breathing, what helped me to heal was the practice (continued to this day) of letting go of attachment to good and bad. Stepping fully into the truth of my (all of our) non-duality.
R Pearl, Blackhawk CO.
2/20/2018 01:14:50 pm
I am recognizing my own already-walked-continuing-to-walk-forever-will-be-walking path in this month's teachings. <3
Good and bad used to be all the things for me. How I ran my life and mind...
In addition to grounding and breathing, what helped me to heal was the practice (continued to this day) of letting go of attachment to good and bad. Stepping fully into the truth of my (all of our) non-duality.
R Pearl, Blackhawk CO.
Week 4
Week 4: The Alchemy of the HEART
(Please review your February Journal for full content.)
Be still and listen to your heart. “This is where Yoga begins, unfolds, and fulfills itself” (Feuerstein, The Shambhala 156). You must slow down to quiet the soul and surrender into life’s complexity. You must find comfort in the groundlessness of being—the acknowledgement of a mystery beyond your ultimate control. Realization of God/dess within is not a matter of ego-inflation. Instead the ego must have the courage to relax, to open to a balanced sense of whole Self. Then the ego becomes strong enough, flexible enough, to reflect the inner light of awareness.
In his work, Jung compares the experience of yoga to the seasoning of individuation, or psycho- spiritual wholeness. This wholeness is realized when we embrace the unconscious content of the psyche as a part of the whole... when we gather the scattered pieces of our disintegrated and projected psyche and allow the shadow to reunite with the conscious ego. We must recognize that our highest ideals (and greatest desires) are not found in concretized, exterior sources, but reside within.
This experience has a palpable effect on your practical, every-day life. As Jung writes: “One is capable of seeing the tension of opposites of the world without agitation. One does not become apathetic but is freed from the entanglement” (83). This is a state of recognition, where fear is dissolved into a Love beyond duality—where the sacred is found within the mundane, and you may awaken to that inner power where higher and deeper awareness inform the wisdom of your heart. Again we turn to the alchemy of the heart, where all opposites come together in a sacred marriage of wholeness.
In his work, Jung compares the experience of yoga to the seasoning of individuation, or psycho- spiritual wholeness. This wholeness is realized when we embrace the unconscious content of the psyche as a part of the whole... when we gather the scattered pieces of our disintegrated and projected psyche and allow the shadow to reunite with the conscious ego. We must recognize that our highest ideals (and greatest desires) are not found in concretized, exterior sources, but reside within.
This experience has a palpable effect on your practical, every-day life. As Jung writes: “One is capable of seeing the tension of opposites of the world without agitation. One does not become apathetic but is freed from the entanglement” (83). This is a state of recognition, where fear is dissolved into a Love beyond duality—where the sacred is found within the mundane, and you may awaken to that inner power where higher and deeper awareness inform the wisdom of your heart. Again we turn to the alchemy of the heart, where all opposites come together in a sacred marriage of wholeness.
The ultimate aim of non-dual yoga is to become awake while living in the body, while enjoying the natural world. A life fully lived does not mean remaining forever in a meditative state of blissful inward concentration, isolated from relationship and oblivious to the human experience.
Non-dual yoga includes a deep embrace of the human experience and the natural world. It honors what has been associated with the feminine principle—the body, emotion, sensation, relationship and Nature. As Woodman writes, “Conscious femininity, you see, is not just a blissed- out state. It involves an awareness of the energy of the rock and the love in the bird, the tree, the sunset. An awareness of the harmony of all things, an awareness of living in the world soul” (Conscious 83)
Non-dual yoga includes a deep embrace of the human experience and the natural world. It honors what has been associated with the feminine principle—the body, emotion, sensation, relationship and Nature. As Woodman writes, “Conscious femininity, you see, is not just a blissed- out state. It involves an awareness of the energy of the rock and the love in the bird, the tree, the sunset. An awareness of the harmony of all things, an awareness of living in the world soul” (Conscious 83)
MEDITATION on the Middle Path
A practice presented in the Vijnana Bhairava Tantra employs concentration on the middle way, or the space between the opposites. As Edinger writes, “grappling with the opposites leads directly to an encounter with the Self” (Mystery 16). You may use the experiences of pleasure and pain, both of which are temporal experiences, for your practice.
Although they seem to be opposites, there is a point where too much pleasure causes spiritual pain and the experience of pain can produce feelings of gratitude and aliveness.
This practice teaches to witness both experiences without attachment, to dwell on the shunya: the gap in between. With concentration, the gap begins to close. Before pain turns to pleasure or pleasure to pain, there is a stillness where you may come to realize both experiences as forms of energy in constant flux. The light of awareness dwells in the space between.
The universe is in a state of continuous spanda (pulsation) between expansion and contraction. The entire play is crucial for the experience of Reality. The opposites exist in relationship to each other. Existing in the world of duality means fluctuating between the poles. The practices of Tantra invite you to embody the divine dance of spanda while simultaneously remembering the ultimate Reality responsible for that universal flux. The middle path means holding the tension of the opposites and realizing divine Love at play.
Although they seem to be opposites, there is a point where too much pleasure causes spiritual pain and the experience of pain can produce feelings of gratitude and aliveness.
This practice teaches to witness both experiences without attachment, to dwell on the shunya: the gap in between. With concentration, the gap begins to close. Before pain turns to pleasure or pleasure to pain, there is a stillness where you may come to realize both experiences as forms of energy in constant flux. The light of awareness dwells in the space between.
The universe is in a state of continuous spanda (pulsation) between expansion and contraction. The entire play is crucial for the experience of Reality. The opposites exist in relationship to each other. Existing in the world of duality means fluctuating between the poles. The practices of Tantra invite you to embody the divine dance of spanda while simultaneously remembering the ultimate Reality responsible for that universal flux. The middle path means holding the tension of the opposites and realizing divine Love at play.
Ayurveda/Recipes
Vata/Kapha Transition
Week ONE: Drink!
Kapha season is marked by excess moisture, which can present in your body as excess mucus.
Welcome to cold, cough, and flu season. With a child in grade school, I get ample opportunity to test home remedies for cough and cold. The following recipe is both a great preventative and a natural cough suppressant. …and it tastes so good that even my little one drinks it up.
MIX: Winter Wellness Elixir
Blend
2 cups fresh pineapple
1/2 c. lemon juice
1 in. peeled ginger
2 Tbs. Manuka honey
1 dropper Kick Ass Immune Activator (Dietary Supplement)
dash of cayenne
Serve this smoothie only slightly cooler than room temp.
Precede and follow with warm ginger water.
Kapha season is marked by excess moisture, which can present in your body as excess mucus.
Welcome to cold, cough, and flu season. With a child in grade school, I get ample opportunity to test home remedies for cough and cold. The following recipe is both a great preventative and a natural cough suppressant. …and it tastes so good that even my little one drinks it up.
MIX: Winter Wellness Elixir
Blend
2 cups fresh pineapple
1/2 c. lemon juice
1 in. peeled ginger
2 Tbs. Manuka honey
1 dropper Kick Ass Immune Activator (Dietary Supplement)
dash of cayenne
Serve this smoothie only slightly cooler than room temp.
Precede and follow with warm ginger water.
Week TWO: Spices
It's the beginning of Kapha season in the Northern Hemisphere!
According to Ayurveda, this is the time of year to add a little spice to everything you do to strengthen your digestive fires and increase your metabolism, movement, and mood.
Below are my favorite kapha-balancing spices with a suggestion or two of how to use them:
It's the beginning of Kapha season in the Northern Hemisphere!
According to Ayurveda, this is the time of year to add a little spice to everything you do to strengthen your digestive fires and increase your metabolism, movement, and mood.
Below are my favorite kapha-balancing spices with a suggestion or two of how to use them:
- fresh ginger: Use ginger liberally throughout the Kapha season. Grate it and boil it into tea (add a little honey which, according to Ayurveda, is a “heating” sweetener.
- cumin: Cumin is the essential ingredient for chili…along with chilis (of course), stewed tomatoes, black beans, pinto beans, and white beans, which are all balancing for Kapha dosha.
- mustard seed: Roast your cauliflower with a bit of black pepper, curry, and mustard seeds. This spice has a sharp aromatic flavor and is great for increasing digestion
- black pepper: I love cracking fresh pepper for its flavor and potency. If you are still using pre-ground pepper, I highly recommend buying fresh peppercorns and a mortar and pestle.
- cinnamon: Use cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, to warm up baked apples or pears for a kapha balancing desert. I also use a dash of these flavors as the “secret” ingredients in my veggie chili.
- chilis: Throw in a bit of minced chili pepper when cooking your favorite kapha-pacifying veggies like carrots, cabbage, green beans, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and leafy greens.
- trikatu powder: Change up your morning ritual by replacing your ashwagandha with a shot of trikatu. Trikatu is a combination of three pungent spices: pippali, ginger, and black pepper. Mix 1/2 tsp. trikatu powder in 6 oz. warm water to aid digestion, weight management, and respiratory health.
Week THREE: Veggies
I love Brussels sprouts! …and Kapha season is the perfect time to eat them. Ayurveda teaches that the bitterness of sprouts aggravates Vata (wind) and Pitta (fire), but these tasty bite-sized greens are balancing for earth and water. They also have loads of vits. A & E, and fiber!
Asparagus, too, is an amazing veggie for this time of year. It is a diuretic and astringent, helping to purify the body of toxins and eliminate water retention. Roast the sprouts. Steam the sprigs. Plate them both atop a lemon/pepper quinoa and savor the flavor.
*a note about saffron: In ayurveda, saffron is considered tridoshic — balancing for all doshas. It helps with digestion, the assimilation of nutrients, and flushing toxins.
COOK: Lemon/Pepper Quinoa with Sprigs & Sprouts
Season 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered lengthwise, with 1 Tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. chopped fresh Rosemary and 1 tsp. fresh Thyme sprigs (finely chopped) as well as salt and pepper (to taste). Roast at 375º for 30 min. (or until tender).
Meanwhile, steam 1/2 cup Quinoa with 1 cup water. Add spices: 1/2 tsp. Saffron, 1/2 tsp. Coriander, 1/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper, 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice. Cover and warm on low for 5 minutes to let spices permeate the quinoa.
Top with steamed asparagus sprigs and the roasted Brussels sprouts.
Enjoy!
I love Brussels sprouts! …and Kapha season is the perfect time to eat them. Ayurveda teaches that the bitterness of sprouts aggravates Vata (wind) and Pitta (fire), but these tasty bite-sized greens are balancing for earth and water. They also have loads of vits. A & E, and fiber!
Asparagus, too, is an amazing veggie for this time of year. It is a diuretic and astringent, helping to purify the body of toxins and eliminate water retention. Roast the sprouts. Steam the sprigs. Plate them both atop a lemon/pepper quinoa and savor the flavor.
*a note about saffron: In ayurveda, saffron is considered tridoshic — balancing for all doshas. It helps with digestion, the assimilation of nutrients, and flushing toxins.
COOK: Lemon/Pepper Quinoa with Sprigs & Sprouts
Season 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered lengthwise, with 1 Tbsp. olive oil, 1 tsp. chopped fresh Rosemary and 1 tsp. fresh Thyme sprigs (finely chopped) as well as salt and pepper (to taste). Roast at 375º for 30 min. (or until tender).
Meanwhile, steam 1/2 cup Quinoa with 1 cup water. Add spices: 1/2 tsp. Saffron, 1/2 tsp. Coriander, 1/4 tsp. fresh ground black pepper, 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice. Cover and warm on low for 5 minutes to let spices permeate the quinoa.
Top with steamed asparagus sprigs and the roasted Brussels sprouts.
Enjoy!
Week FOUR: Chili
The following recipe yields a LOT of veggie chili. We make it by the big pot-full so that it lasts. Everyone in the family loves it, so it typically serves as both lunch and dinner for a few days. My husband likes it with a side of corn chips. My daughter likes it with melted cheese and corn bread.
If you are used to making chili with meat, you may find the roasted cauliflower to be a hearty and flavorful substitute.
COOK: Veggie Chili w/Roasted Cauliflower
Simmer 1 cup chopped onion in a large pot with 1 Tbsp. avocado oil or ghee. Add 1 Tbsp fresh garlic, 1 Tbs. chopped chili pepper, 1 cup diced bell pepper and 1 cup diced carrots. Once the veggies have begun to soften, add 6 oz. tomato paste and 2 cups water. Stir in 1 cup diced tomatoes, 3 cups pinto beans, 2 cups black beens, and 1 1/5 cups corn. Spice with 1/2 tsp. black pepper, 3 tsp. cumin, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp. sea salt. Allow to stew.
Meanwhile, roast a head of cauliflower (chopped into course pieces) with 1 Tbs. avocado oil, olive oil or ghee and seasoned with cumin, salt and pepper (to taste). Roast at 375º for 20-30 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
Add roasted cauliflower to your chili along with 2 cups, finely shredded greens. I like to use a blend of spinach, kale, and cilantro. Stir together until well blended, serve, and enjoy!
The following recipe yields a LOT of veggie chili. We make it by the big pot-full so that it lasts. Everyone in the family loves it, so it typically serves as both lunch and dinner for a few days. My husband likes it with a side of corn chips. My daughter likes it with melted cheese and corn bread.
If you are used to making chili with meat, you may find the roasted cauliflower to be a hearty and flavorful substitute.
COOK: Veggie Chili w/Roasted Cauliflower
Simmer 1 cup chopped onion in a large pot with 1 Tbsp. avocado oil or ghee. Add 1 Tbsp fresh garlic, 1 Tbs. chopped chili pepper, 1 cup diced bell pepper and 1 cup diced carrots. Once the veggies have begun to soften, add 6 oz. tomato paste and 2 cups water. Stir in 1 cup diced tomatoes, 3 cups pinto beans, 2 cups black beens, and 1 1/5 cups corn. Spice with 1/2 tsp. black pepper, 3 tsp. cumin, 1/2 tsp. cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp. sea salt. Allow to stew.
Meanwhile, roast a head of cauliflower (chopped into course pieces) with 1 Tbs. avocado oil, olive oil or ghee and seasoned with cumin, salt and pepper (to taste). Roast at 375º for 20-30 minutes or until the cauliflower is tender.
Add roasted cauliflower to your chili along with 2 cups, finely shredded greens. I like to use a blend of spinach, kale, and cilantro. Stir together until well blended, serve, and enjoy!
SHARE: What did you make? Show us your food!
Full Moon Practice
Hunger Moon DREAM JOURNAL
“The more you work with your dreams and your unconscious, and honor it, the more you understand it and it understands you. When you develop a relationship with your psyche this way, you begin to carry that energy into life and your relationships.” –Marion Woodman
Begin a nightly Dream Journal. If you wake from a dream, take time to write it down—first thought, best thought. You don't have to analyze or "animate" your dream images right away. Just take note of what ever comes to you (either written words or drawn images) each day so that your dreams are there for later reflection.
Feel free to share your dreams below. You can also post images to Facebook or Instagram (be sure to #rrshakti and #elevenmoons!) Or email your dream visions to [email protected].
I am happy to help you animate them!
Feel free to share your dreams below. You can also post images to Facebook or Instagram (be sure to #rrshakti and #elevenmoons!) Or email your dream visions to [email protected].
I am happy to help you animate them!
REMEMBERING YOUR DREAMS
I LOVE the word "remembering," ie: RE-membering. It means reintegrating the scattered pieces of your experiences–putting all the members back together. When it comes to dream tending, it can be challenging to remember all the scattered symbols and archetypal events that occur in your sleeping psyche. I get it. Me too!
Below is a list of action steps that have helped me remember my dreams:
1. Get a good night's sleep. As we learn from our Ayurvedic lifestyle, it is good to get at least eight hours of sleep—go to bed and rise with the sun as much as possible. Eliminate alcohol or drug consumption before you sleep. These things will disrupt your sleeping, and therefore, dreaming patterns. Retire at the same time every evening and put all technology away at least an hour before bed to help ensure deep restful dreaming stages of sleep.
2. Ask your unconscious for guidance.
Before you go to sleep, you can use your dream journal to write out any questions, problems, or challenges that you encountered during the day. In this way, you are sort-of asking your unconscious mind for insight. Simply acknowledging that you are open to remembering your dreams can go a long, long way.
3. Keep your dream journal close to your bed.
You can also use a recording device, if that is easier and more effective for you. Make sure you have something close at hand, so that you can record all the dream impressions you remember as soon as you wake. Those first few seconds are the most crucial for capturing the feeling energy and detailed account of your dream. STAY IN BED to get the freshest recall of your dream images. As soon as you open your eyes, stay still. Focus on a single point and take a few moments to see what comes to you before immediately shifting gears into the morning.
4. Use a gentle alarm clock (like a Zen Clock or soft chime) to wake you up.
If you MUST use an alarm in the morning, condition yourself to awaken with a very gentle chime. A blaring alarm clock will jar your psyche from the dream-state and make it very difficult to remember your dreams. My favorite way to wake up (if you are blessed with this option) is to ask your loved one to gently wake you up in the morning and immediately invite you to: "Tell me your dreams." Speaking your dream memories to someone, right away, is an amazing way to recall more details (this is also why a recording device might work better for you, if you don't have someone to immediately share with).
5. Look for patterns
When you DO remember your dreams, take note of the circumstances from the day before. What did you eat? What was the temperature of the room? Were you home or somewhere different? Had you been more active or sedentary? Take note of how you can improve your dream memories. And simply honoring the dreams you DO remember by sharing them and recording them will help you remember MORE and MORE dreams.
Happy Dreaming.
Loving You,
R.R. Shakti PhD
I LOVE the word "remembering," ie: RE-membering. It means reintegrating the scattered pieces of your experiences–putting all the members back together. When it comes to dream tending, it can be challenging to remember all the scattered symbols and archetypal events that occur in your sleeping psyche. I get it. Me too!
Below is a list of action steps that have helped me remember my dreams:
1. Get a good night's sleep. As we learn from our Ayurvedic lifestyle, it is good to get at least eight hours of sleep—go to bed and rise with the sun as much as possible. Eliminate alcohol or drug consumption before you sleep. These things will disrupt your sleeping, and therefore, dreaming patterns. Retire at the same time every evening and put all technology away at least an hour before bed to help ensure deep restful dreaming stages of sleep.
2. Ask your unconscious for guidance.
Before you go to sleep, you can use your dream journal to write out any questions, problems, or challenges that you encountered during the day. In this way, you are sort-of asking your unconscious mind for insight. Simply acknowledging that you are open to remembering your dreams can go a long, long way.
3. Keep your dream journal close to your bed.
You can also use a recording device, if that is easier and more effective for you. Make sure you have something close at hand, so that you can record all the dream impressions you remember as soon as you wake. Those first few seconds are the most crucial for capturing the feeling energy and detailed account of your dream. STAY IN BED to get the freshest recall of your dream images. As soon as you open your eyes, stay still. Focus on a single point and take a few moments to see what comes to you before immediately shifting gears into the morning.
4. Use a gentle alarm clock (like a Zen Clock or soft chime) to wake you up.
If you MUST use an alarm in the morning, condition yourself to awaken with a very gentle chime. A blaring alarm clock will jar your psyche from the dream-state and make it very difficult to remember your dreams. My favorite way to wake up (if you are blessed with this option) is to ask your loved one to gently wake you up in the morning and immediately invite you to: "Tell me your dreams." Speaking your dream memories to someone, right away, is an amazing way to recall more details (this is also why a recording device might work better for you, if you don't have someone to immediately share with).
5. Look for patterns
When you DO remember your dreams, take note of the circumstances from the day before. What did you eat? What was the temperature of the room? Were you home or somewhere different? Had you been more active or sedentary? Take note of how you can improve your dream memories. And simply honoring the dreams you DO remember by sharing them and recording them will help you remember MORE and MORE dreams.
Happy Dreaming.
Loving You,
R.R. Shakti PhD
Full Moon Community Call
Full Snow Moon Community Call
YOU will navigate this month’s Tribal Call!
As we prepare for our third and final month (March) governed by the Goddess archetype, Kali, with an emphasis on Courage and Compassion, I want to hear your thoughts and questions!
I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Please prepare to share your questions and comments on our Full Moon Community Council Call. The entire one-hour experience will organically unfold from YOU!!
As we prepare for our third and final month (March) governed by the Goddess archetype, Kali, with an emphasis on Courage and Compassion, I want to hear your thoughts and questions!
- What has most impacted you from the Tantrik teachings on non-duality?
- As we followed Inanna’s descent, passing through the seven gates, to confront each shadow vision, which Gate(s) provided you with the most opportunity for growth.
- How have you been utilizing the Ayurvedic principles in everyday life?
- How has the image and symbolism of the Kālī archetype inspired you?
- Have you been maintaining a relationship with your altar?
- As we move into March’s deeper heart-work of courage and compassion, which two chakra marriages presented the most meaning for you?
- WHAT ARE YOUR PERSONAL QUESTIONS AND BREAKTHROUGHS?
I am looking forward to hearing from you.
Please prepare to share your questions and comments on our Full Moon Community Council Call. The entire one-hour experience will organically unfold from YOU!!
Watch the Recording
For best video streaming, please be sure you have a strong internet signal and that all other applications are closed.
Further Study for February
Further Study for February
Aizenstat, Stephen. DreamTending: Awakening to the Healing Power of Dreams.
Baring, Anne and Jules Cashford: The Myth of the Goddess: Evolution of an Image.
Edinger, Edward. The Mystery of the Coniunctio: Alchemical Image of Individuation.
Eliade, Mercea. Yoga: Immortality and Freedom. 2nd ed. Bollingen Series VI LVI.
Feuerstein, Georg. The Psychology of Yoga: Integrating Eastern and Western Approaches for Understanding the Mind.
---. The Shambhala Guide to Yoga.
---. Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy.
—-. The Yoga Tradition: Its History, Literature, Philosophy and Practice.
Harvey, Andrew, and Anne Baring. The Divine Feminine: Exploring the Feminine Face
of God Around the World.
Hillman, James. Re-Visioning Psychology
Jung, C.G. The Collected Works. Trans. R.F.C. Hull. Bollingen Series XX, Vol 1-19.
Keleman, Stanley. Myth and the Body: A Colloquy with Joseph Campbell
Kinsley, David. Tantric Visions of the Divine Feminine: The Ten Mahavidyas.
Mahaffey, Patrick. “The Heart of Hindu Mythos: Yogic Perspectives on Self-Realization”
Varieties of Mythic Experience: Essays on Religion, Psyche and Culture.
Saraswati, Satyasangasana. Sri Vijnana Bhairava Tantra: The Ascent.
Wallis, Christopher. Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a
Timeless Tradition.
Woodman, Marion. Conscious Femininity.
Woodman, Marion and Elinor Dickson. Dancing in the Flames: The Dark Goddess in the
Transformation of Consciousness.
Baring, Anne and Jules Cashford: The Myth of the Goddess: Evolution of an Image.
Edinger, Edward. The Mystery of the Coniunctio: Alchemical Image of Individuation.
Eliade, Mercea. Yoga: Immortality and Freedom. 2nd ed. Bollingen Series VI LVI.
Feuerstein, Georg. The Psychology of Yoga: Integrating Eastern and Western Approaches for Understanding the Mind.
---. The Shambhala Guide to Yoga.
---. Tantra: The Path of Ecstasy.
—-. The Yoga Tradition: Its History, Literature, Philosophy and Practice.
Harvey, Andrew, and Anne Baring. The Divine Feminine: Exploring the Feminine Face
of God Around the World.
Hillman, James. Re-Visioning Psychology
Jung, C.G. The Collected Works. Trans. R.F.C. Hull. Bollingen Series XX, Vol 1-19.
Keleman, Stanley. Myth and the Body: A Colloquy with Joseph Campbell
Kinsley, David. Tantric Visions of the Divine Feminine: The Ten Mahavidyas.
Mahaffey, Patrick. “The Heart of Hindu Mythos: Yogic Perspectives on Self-Realization”
Varieties of Mythic Experience: Essays on Religion, Psyche and Culture.
Saraswati, Satyasangasana. Sri Vijnana Bhairava Tantra: The Ascent.
Wallis, Christopher. Tantra Illuminated: The Philosophy, History, and Practice of a
Timeless Tradition.
Woodman, Marion. Conscious Femininity.
Woodman, Marion and Elinor Dickson. Dancing in the Flames: The Dark Goddess in the
Transformation of Consciousness.
Conversation:
Vulnerable Masculine
with Thomas Radtke
Vulnerable Masculine
with Thomas Radtke
Conversation: Masculine Vulnerability
w/ Thomas Radtke
In order for there to be a reunion of the masculine and feminine principles, we must first be able to identify what "masculine" and "feminine" actually is. Where did these terms come from and are they even useful in our world today? Thomas Radtke and R.R. Shakti discuss the relationship between the masculine and feminine principles in this dynamic conversation.
For best video streaming, please be sure you have a strong internet signal and that all other applications are closed.
|
Thomas Radtke
Thomas facilitates empowerment retreats and courses as a Health and Wellness Coach. As a mentor, he'll inspire you to change your mindset—to develop and sustain behaviors proven to improve your health and well-being. Thomas is a trained Inner Power Yoga® teacher, body-worker and empowerment coach. He focuses on self-actualization and meaningful connection in professional and private relationships. His passion is helping clients integrate health and wellness into their day-to-day lives so they may express their innate gifts and talents to the world. "Except for the point, the still point, there would be no dance, and there is only the dance."
—T.S. Eliot, Four Quartets |
