(A lecture given at the Cascadian National University, 2517)
[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMVmW0k9jZI]
Morning, Class. Hope everybody had a decent BBQ Day. I didn't do much, just had a few ciders and the block splurged on a deer. Which got me thinking about the old cults and how they used to worship BBQ day. So, you'll have to forgive me if my notes are a little fuzzy this morning.
Chanting as a contemplative practice naturally draws our focus to the present and embodied presence. The very physical act of breathing and forming sounds brings body and mind together. Chant has a place in many sacred traditions, from Gregorian melodies to Native American drumming to the polyrhythmic chants of West Africa. There are as many ways to chant as there are bodies and vocal cords. You may enjoy exploring different kinds of chant, or even creating your own, as a way of entering into contemplation.
Perhaps the simplest, most familiar chant is “Om.” In the Hindu tradition, Om is the original and basic vibration of the created world, the sound that holds all other sounds, the unity that embraces all diversity. The mantra is also called pranava in Sanskrit, meaning it infuses all of life and fills our prana, breath. Om represents the fullness of reality and encompasses all things; it has no beginning and no end.
You might practice chanting this single syllable alone or in a group, from five minutes to more than twenty, followed by a time of silence. Begin by sitting tall and straight so you can breathe deeply. Inhale, and on your exhalation, vocalize the three sounds of Om, AUM, on a single tone. Feel the sound moving upward with your breath: beginning in the bottom of your belly—aah; moving to your chest—ooh; vibrating your lips and nasal cavity—mm. Take another deep breath, and sing AUM again, slowly shaping the vowels and gently closing your mouth to a hum.
If you prefer, you can simply hum for as long as you’re able, lips barely touching and teeth apart, before breathing in and humming again.
Repeat the chant as many times as you wish, letting all other thoughts and sensations disappear. If you are distracted, return your focus to breath and sound and the way it feels in your body. When you are ready, let the chant subside into silence.
There has been an information blackout on the Awans since news broke that DWS warned the Capital police chief that there will be consequences "for not releasing her computers to her after he confiscated them.
This guy was illegally in France but he didn’t hesitate a heartbeat to put everything on the line, including his own safety, to save a small child’s life. He will be an asset no matter what country he ends up living in.
France offers citizenship to Malian immigrant who scaled building to save child
At first, the simple explanation "none" comes to mind. Would that this were so simple, but it isn't.
Look upon at many levels, the Dem party serves multiple purposes.
I have NEVER.been a fan of censorship, but I think this could push me in that direction. This is inexcusably foul.
‘Beyond insane and sick’: Parkland parents lash out at school shooting simulator
Parents of students murdered in February at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, have lashed out at a new video game that lets gamers play the role of a school shooter, stalking through classrooms to rack up kills.
Yeah, this one's a little personal but at the same time, it's a topic I've been reading a lot on due to my interest and my new hobby. One of the things about doing any new skill is maintaining the enthusiasm to continue the practice even when it gets hard. So, I read on it, think on it, and try to work Judo ideals into my life.
And straight up, Judo is Blue Collar to the core.
First, let’s look at what this guy is saying.
May 28, 2018 - 11:00 AM EDT
Dodd-Frank rollback will reinvigorate Main Street
BY ALFREDO ORTIZ, OPINION CONTRIBUTOR*
Several new studies came out this week that once again demonstrated how the bottom half of the population has been left behind.
