I am writing this after a weekend Tantra workshop near my home in Sarasota. I feel so peaceful, grounded, and connected. It’s amazing how quickly we disconnect in happy times as well as in times when we really need to be there for ourselves. Be there for myself? What an interesting concept. I mean, I’m sitting here, doesn’t that mean I’m present?
Well, yes and no. We can be be sitting even in front of someone talking and still not fully be present. It seems to elude us so much. Many spiritual gurus will repeat that suffering does not exist in the present. So how can we get there? How can we become present and grounded and connected?

One word: practice. Well maybe two words: consistent practice. In the Yoga Sutras, Patanjali in sutra 1.14 says, “Sa tu dīrgha kāla nairantarya satkārā ’ ‘sevito dṛḍhabhūmiḥ”

This practice becomes well-grounded when continued with reverent devotion and without interruption over a long period of time.

There are different techniques that work for different people, but this is what works for me. Sometimes I will have to do it multiple times in a row until it seems the racing horses in my head settle in the pasture for grazing.

Repeat:
Release identity of myself from the future
Release identity of myself from the past
Release identity of myself from the present

When we release our concept of what gives us limits and objectifies us, we create freedom and space. In that space is where joy resides; where love resides; where connection is possible. Try practicing it. Let me know what you think and if you want more guidance on mindfulness and connection. Listen to my latest radio show (soon to be a regular podcast in March!) by clicking here.

Namaste