MINDFUL NECESSITIES UPDATE

March 22, 2020

I hope this note finds you safe wherever you are in the world. 2020 is unfolding an experience that is deeply effecting us, in our micro world and as a globe. With the very seriousness at hand is also an invitation to dissolve the concept of borders when it comes to our concerns and compassion for one another. We have seen embarrassing behaviour grow out of panic and we have seen extraordinary heart for nurturing.

Here in India, there is growing awareness of the threatening virus and caution is being taken everywhere.. distancing is challenging with such a population, although our immediate population in Rishikesh is dwindling as many foreigners head home early to their respective countries, if they can. We have watched panic grow over the weeks even amongst the Indian community for the threat but there is little sign of a serious outbreak.. today.

We stay in a wonderful place here, The Vedic Yoga Centre. The family are holistic, nature respecting, grateful, loving and very spiritually grounded. It is owned and run by a three generation family that you may see tending to the property, home and animals, yoga or chanting as early as 6am. There is a sign above your head as you leave the driveway. It says do good, be good, be happy. This sums up what you feel when you’re here.

The other day I was leaving the room to go to our last teaching before any gatherings would be shut down. One of the beautiful men who works here with the family said with a big smile and his hand on his heart “be careful out there, we are all one.” The Indian way is often more peaceful than the ways of the west. “Are you germy, don’t come near me” lol It’s a great teaching that leaves you with love over fear.

This uncertainty will effect us all differently, socially, economically, and physically for some. Let us all find courage to burst through our fear and rewrite how we move together. It’s time for all the mindfulness practices we can access to become part of our isolation time. What an opportunity. This will help support our para sympathetic nervous system and get us out of the fight, flight or freeze state that minimizes our immune system, to say the least.

Travel is currently a nightmare for so many. I have decided to stay in India for now with the family where we feel very safe, unless of course the country kicks us out. All the other guests have left and no one is permitted to come in to the premises. This said, my usual mantra ‘one day at a time’ that I often reach for has turned into ‘twenty minutes at a time’. In these times of uncertainty, we shall see.

These fabulous langurs and monkeys are part of the family that frequent our balcony. They remind me that the opportunity to cultivate joy and share it is alway with us.

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Sadly, both retreats to Ireland and Italy have been postponed until further notice. Once we can see safely the other side of Covid-19 and travel movement becomes possible again, I’ll set new dates. We could really use these retreats now, but we will definitely appreciate them when these unnerving times settle. Although most people who are currently booked will attend the next ones, I’m sure some people will not be able so there will be availability for new participants. Stay tuned.

Mindfulnecessities.com

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On the beautiful product side of Mindful Necessities, we will continue to make and ship orders.

Our malas are being created intentionally to help us ground and the rest of our contemplative jewellery serves as articles of practice. Like connecting with our breath while spinning a meditation ring, even chanting the mantras on them like ‘one moment at a time’ ‘peace begins with me’ ‘let go’ ‘it’s all about kindness’ or ‘so incredibly loved’. There also couldn’t be a better time to wear Thich Nhat Hahn’s amazing calligraphic seals against our skin. The Being Peace’ collection is a constant reminder of the inner peace that can be attained through mindful practice. A few of the mantras are “peace in oneself, peace in the world”, “no mud, no lotus”, “breathe”, or “be still and know”.

Support whatever it takes to be your greatest inspiration in times of trails and also times of comfort.

If there is anything we or I can do for you, please feel free to reach out. We are one.