As I reflect on our discussions around Giving and Receiving in early December, I am humbled and inspired by the experiences many of you shared. Here is some information and a “Giving and Receiving” practice you may want to explore.
The world is in a continuous state of flow. Whether it is the water cycle, breathing cycle or the changing of the season – everything is in constant motion. Giving and receiving is similar – they work together. In order to give, there must be a receiver.
The most important thing about giving and receiving is the intention. There are 3 types of giving intention:- The Taker who always tries to get as much as possible from others – giving to gain.
- The Matcher who does a favor and expects one back – giving to receive something in return.
- The Giver goes out of their way to support and help others with no strings attached – giving unconditionally.
I have reflected on this information over the last month and recognize each of these intentions within myself at times. When I have feelings of loss, I’m realizing I was not truly giving. If the receiver has to fit into my schedule or expectations, then I have not been giving. I will continue to practice.
Giving Practice:
Anytime you come in contact with someone, give them something. This doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Some examples are to give:- A complement
- A flower
- Kindness
- Thanks
- A message or note
- Attention
It’s important to remember that to give there also must be a receiver. As a receiver, I sometimes feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, shy or emotional that someone would think of me. If you have similar feelings, I suggest practicing receiving as well. A warm-up practice could be to open yourself each day to receiving:- Sunlight
- Water to drink
- Food to eat
- Air to breath
- Sound of birds singing
Additional examples are accepting:- Complements
- Attention
- Flowers
- A Thank You
- Blessings
Happy New Year! January has arrived with an ice storm in Central Illinois. With a new year, many people set resolutions inspired by changes they would like to achieve. This was my approach for many years although as I reflect on my results, I was often disappointed that I didn’t meet my expectations for one reason or another. Have you been there??? As I began to practice yoga and learn about yogic philosophy and tradition, I have evolved towards setting intentions and acting with intention (sometimes called being mindful).
In January, our theme will be “Intentions”. I will offer readings, discussion and suggestions about setting intention and acting with intention. I look forward to sharing ideas and learning about intentions from each other.
News and Notes:- Our theme for January will be “Setting and Acting with Intention”. Please send me email with your questions and or thoughts on this topic.
- The January and February class schedules are now on the website. Please be sure to register for the classes covered by your subscription.
- I am making a list, preparing to discuss possible changes to the website with my developer. If you have ideas, please let me know. I won’t promise everything suggested will be changed, although it is my desire to make the website as useful to you as I can afford.
- Thank you to all who have purchased classes for family or friends as part of your holiday giving. I am very grateful for your support of my new business! I am also very grateful to those who have encouraged friends to purchase a class or subscription to practice yoga with us! It is fun for me to meet new people; and I hope it is fun for you to see friends on a regular basis as you practice.
If a gift is of interest to you, here are the steps you can take:- Go to www.YogawithAda1.com
- If you have a subscription, go to your account and Logout before proceeding to #3. Those without a subscription can go straight to #3.
- Go to the “Class Schedule” and purchase the class or classes, using your own email address and credit card.
- Forward the confirmation email to the gift recipient along with your personal greeting. Please CC me at YogawithAda1@gmail.com, so I can add them to the class roster and know to expect them.
As always, please let me hear from you! Your feedback and suggestions continue to inspire the additions and changes to my teaching and website.
Blessings to you and your families as we embark on this new year!
Ada | 
