SHANTI YOGA MESSAGE
When we look at the year ahead and at what the future holds for us, we know that it is now possible to create a society where people will be able to live longer, healthier and more meaningful and productive lives. Although some of these concepts may appear as unattainable goals to some people, in such a society, the measure of success would be based upon the fulfilment of one’s individual pursuits, rather than upon the acquisition of wealth, property and power.
Of course, no one can really predict the future with precision. We will always come across many variables which include natural and human-made disasters, diseases, new ideas which are beyond most people’s current comprehension and inventions which could radically alter the course of civilisation. Every action and decision we make (or don’t make) creates ripples that flow out in every direction. For the first time, we have the capability, technology and knowledge to direct those ripples. Thus, while we cannot confidently predict the future, we must most surely live it.
With the advances in science and technology over the last two hundred years, there is no doubt that the human application of science and technology can carry us with confidence and assurance into the future. What is needed is a change in our sense of direction and purpose.
Our main problem is a poor understanding about what it means to be human and the full realisation that human beings are not separate from nature. Our values, beliefs and behaviour are as much a part of the natural laws as any other natural process. We are all an integral part in the chain of life. If we apply all that we already know to enhance the quality of all (human) life on earth, we could at the same time, and indeed must, protect the environment and the symbiotic process of living systems. It is now mandatory that we intelligently rearrange human affairs to comply with available resources. The happiest people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything.
There is limitless, untapped potential in the future application of new technologies and older principles, where our health, intellect and well being are concerned, not only in a material sense but also wholistically where we express a deep concern for one another. In this way, our sciences and technologies can support a meaningful and humane civilisation.
When applied with a humane focus, the primary directive for an emerging, cyber age could be the synthesising of technology and cybernetics into a workable and human synergy for people of all nations. It could achieve a world free from hunger, war and poverty - a world that humanity has failed to achieve throughout history. However, if civilisation continues on its present course, we will simply repeat the same cycle of inadequacy all over again. We may well ask ourselves the question: does it have to be this way?
We must present an alternative vision for a sustainable new world civilisation unlike any social system that has gone before: a straightforward redesign of our culture, where the age-old inadequacies of war, poverty, hunger, debt and unnecessary human suffering are viewed not only as avoidable but as totally unacceptable. Anything less simple results in a continuation of the same type of problems inherent in the present system. The integration of the best of science and technology with our wisdom arts into a comprehensive plan for a new society based upon human and environmental concerns, is a global vision of hope for the future of humankind in our technological age. Our challenge is to work towards a society where all the world’s resources become the common heritage of all the earth’s people. We need to recover our relationship with nature and mother earth, thanks to whom we exist. She can help us make deep connections with the spirit of life. This is the fulfilling lifestyle of a global, resource-based economy.
Everything in the Universe works in cycles. When we look at 2010, we are at the start of a new decade and can see the glimmer of the beginning of a massive creation cycle. The days we were all waiting for are happening every day - we were born for this and have a responsibility. We are nearing the end of a world we have known, a world dominated by violence, greed, corrupt institutions and corporations, and conflict between organised religions. ( If we can’t see God in all, we can’t see God at all). We can now sense a mass inner transformation in our humanity. You are invited to join the global exploration of ideas to create a healed and workable world. The invitation is to awaken consciousness and live in a rich, powerful way, aiming for freedom - from our entrapments.
At Shanti Yoga, our life coaching transmits tools for an adventure into self exploration with our primary teacher being none other than our direct experiences and intentionally made actions. These are the foundations. No one can teach you anything - only you can learn or teach yourself. Life is more than how to survive the storm - it’s how to dance in the rain. Shanti yoga is a dedication to living consciously and joyfully. It is the thread that weaves meaning through our lives. Sharing these incredible teachings is something to be deeply passionate about. Yoga advocates teaching by example - live light, be light, be the lighthouse. Your yoga practice provides the means and opportunity, one breath at a time, to live this ideal in each moment. Make it your goal to share this science of living with young and old, so that all have a chance to experience the joy that yoga can bring when we live our destiny, not our history, our dharma, not our drama.
To be in the ‘here and now’ invites lucidity, awareness, attention, focus and consciousness. To create a conscious person and to know how to create a lucid, creative and loving existence is the most important task any human being can embark upon. To walk the path with a heart and a conscience is a great challenge full of wisdom, satisfaction and beauty. Shanti Yoga classes are both nurturing and inspiring, to help you not only bring health and healing to your body but to your mind and your spirit. You will live life that feels whole, a life built on a foundation of joy and self knowledge instead of fear and addictions.
The next few years are for us to work on to create peace, plenty, happiness and harmony for all life, so that all beings may benefit from this. You must connect with the extraordinary person you are - the one who exemplifies truly progressive thinking and leadership, which you are able to share. To meet the challenges of these times, you must develop a greater sense of universal responsibility. Each human being must learn to work not just for their own individual self, family or nation but for the benefit of all humankind. We are so interdependent, so closely interconnected with each other. The sense of universal responsibility, the feeling of universal sisterhood and brotherhood and the understanding and belief that we really are a part of one big human family, will enable us to overcome the dangers to our very existence and also bring about peace and happiness.
Expect nothing. Relax and everything is perfect, just as it is. Why struggle? You are the universe.
Keep up the good work. Create a positive world. Together we can make a world of difference.
All of you continue to be in my thoughts and practices. May we all benefit from our connection with one another and our experiences.
With warm regards and love to all,
The Shanti Yoga team
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