yogawiseindia

New Term Begins Monday 6th February 2012

2012-01-28T10:04:00.000-08:00

What a beautiful start to 2012 as we walked along the beach in Portugal in the sunshine with dear friends.
After such a sad year for us with family deaths and the chaos of the world as it realised it could no longer sustain an attitude of non-caring for others and the planet and went into meltdown; we had the offer to spend time in a different place and space to dream again. Acccepting help and gifts is one of the spiritual laws - giving and receiving - and it is one of the most beautiful. Allow yourself to receive with grace and then pass it on!

Classes start again on monday and wednesday nights at 7.30 pm 6th and 8th February and Tuesday 11am on the 7th February for eight weeks. I look forward to working with those who are seeking the deeper truths of existence and to finding that peaceful centre which is always there for us to replenish the spirit in this Kali age.

Love and Light

Narayani

Solstice 2011

2011-12-21T13:37:00.000-08:00

Tonight the old year ends and with the dawn tomorrow may we all start anew; with fresh dreams and hopes for a world filled with Peace , Love, Truth and Joy. It all begins with each one of us and all it takes is our present moment awareness so that we act with genorousity and kindness which is our true nature.

We wish all who read this a happy night of gentle 'letting go' of all the past and an embracing of what is to come with an equally gentle acceptance.
Om shanti shanti shanti
Narayani namostute

Full Moon - Alignment of the Planets

2011-12-10T08:20:00.001-08:00

Prepare tonight for our final meditation gathering tomorrow 11.12.11 . Eat lightly (or fast) and drink plenty of fresh water. Focus only on positive thoughts and the well being of all. Feel the power of your intention to create a space of beauty and to feel that beauty in your very being. We are one!

Autumnal Colours

2011-11-12T14:22:00.001-08:00

2011-11-12T13:41:00.001-08:00

Thanks to the Eleven who came with us for the 11.11.11 ceremony at 11 am in beautiful Bushy Park.
The bell rang as we began our silence to join with all those wishing for Peace. In silence we walked to the magical water gardens where we raised the prana with yoga flows and gentle thoughts. We shared our concerns and our joys at meeting again with like minded friends new and old . Two hundred steps in our meditation walk under the Hornbeam Cathedral ended our silence and we enjoyed the autumnal colours near the canadian totem pole before making our way to lunch. Yoga is One!

Here is a short extract from the latest club newsletter just sent out to members as I hope it will inspire us all to keep true to our 'Kind' self and committed to sharing whatever we have with others for the good of all.

Groovy Guru News Autumn 2011 (Extract)
This year has indeed proved challenging for our planet as predicted by the ancient seers. We have a choice as to how we continue with our lives in 2012 and any preparation we make now will help with that transition from a selfish way of being which will lead to more personal distress and destruction of our environment or to an acceptance that we are part of a whole and that means a switch from a taking to a giving mentality; from competitiveness to co-operation.. It has all been said before but this is now a time for action and not words or good intentions. It all begins with each individual as the story of the starfish illustrates:

One day a man was walking along a beach covered by dying starfish which had been washed ashore and could not get back into the ocean. What a shame he thought and kept walking. Further along the beach he met a young girl who was picking up one starfish at a time and gently placing it back in the sea. It looked a momentous, futile task and he told her she would make no real difference but she just continued anyway despite his advice to walk away and get on with her day. “Why are you wasting your time?” he asked. As she gave yet another starfish a chance to live, she said. “Well it made a difference to that one”

Remember: No act of Kindness is ever wasted. Love and Light Sammi

11.11.11. PEACE

2011-11-11T02:00:00.001-08:00

The full moon last night lit up the darkness in the sky and for those meditating it gave a powerful influx of energy to help us all through this transition period for humanity.

We meet today in the park to breathe in the gifts of nature and further increase our prana flow on this auspicious date and time. We meet not only for ourself but to be able to become stronger in order to give to others who may be weaker than us and who need our good thoughts and Love.

At 11 am we will be in silence and hope that wherever you are you will be with us in spirit as we stay in the present moment and send out Love and Gratitude to the world and all beings.

Although this is Remembrance day for some cultures it is not the yogic philosophy to dwell on memories but rather to be fully present in the moment.

That is not to say we do not honour all deeds of courage and all sacrifices made for the good of all but rather that we send our energy out in this moment to increase goodwill and peace so that each 'memory' is one of Love and therefore creates a present and future that is Peaceful for all people without regret and hatred.

The Affirmation for the morning practise is as follows and do join us at 11 am.

I Live in freedom from inner and outer harm. I live in Joy and Acceptance of things as they are.

I live in Peace, Love and Truth. From the centre of my heart I wish this Harmony for all sentient beings.

For the good of all that is and all that can be.

Om shanti shanti shanti

sammi

Love and Gratitude

2011-11-03T06:12:00.000-07:00

Just received a thank you from Louise and it reminded me of the wonderful ice crystals formed by the intention of Love and Gratitude in the Masaru Emoto 'Messages in Water' book.
He said that the crystal formed from the words Love and Gratitude tied around a water bottle was
"as perfect as can be. This indicates that Love and Gratitude are fundamental to the phenomenon of life in all of nature"

Here is the e mail from Louise and it gave me a warm glow reading it and I know that it gives the sender a feeling of joy as well. Everything we give comes back with the law of Karma!

Monday's class has stayed with me all week; my shoulders and neck are freer as well as hips. It often strikes me, but I don't pass it on enough, how well thought out the sessions are. This is just to let you know that it is appreciated!

Love and hugs

Louise

Practise sending good thoughts to all and see how much your experience of living, even amidst difficult situations, feels better

Love and Gratitude to all beings!

Diwali Festival of Light Wed 26th October

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

As we break next week for half term we wish everyone a happy Diwali and hope that for all the Light triumphs over any Darkness in their lives. We are all experiencing the rapid changes of financial and health strains in this turbulent time but let us keep positive and believe that it will get better by taking action and seeking the company of good friends and family for support.

We wish you all Peace.

narayani

Navatrai Nine days of goddess energy

2011-10-05T08:15:00.001-07:00

Navatrai - Festival of Light over Darkness

28th Sept to 5 Oct 2011 and celebration on the tenth day 6 October!

Blessings and good luck wishes to all in this auspicious time of the year when durga/Kali destroys our negativities, Lakshmai gives us beauty and wealth and Saraswati bestows wisdom through learning and the arts.

Meditation circle this sunday from 7 to 9 pm All welcome in person or spirit to join us in praying for balance in ourselves and the world for the good of all.

Om shanti shanti shanti Peace Peace Peace

Narayani Namostute

Love's Philosophy - Percy Bysshe Shelley

2011-09-09T06:17:00.000-07:00

The Fountains mingle with the river and the rivers with the ocean, The winds of heaven mix forever with a sweet emotion; Nothing in the world is single; all things by a love divine in one spirit meet and mingle.. Why not I with thine? See the mountains kiss high heaven and the waves clasp one another; No sister-flower would be forgiven if it disdained its brother; And the sunlight clasps the earth And the moonbeams kiss the sea; What is all this sweet work worth if thou kiss not me?

Autumn Term Begins 11th September

2011-08-31T12:32:00.000-07:00

Circle meditation on sunday 11th September to prepare for the autumn term and the full moon walk on the 12th September.
Monday and Wednesday evening classes start on 19th and 21st September at 7.30 pm. Tuesday 11am and Thursday 1pm day classes start on 20th and 22nd September .
Please contact me for further details and to book.

Yoga teachings

2011-06-28T02:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Kassandra,

Glad you liked the pictures and hope you look back at the winter solstice Blue Lunar walk to see our favourite place called Bushy Park.
You and some others have asked for more yoga teachings and firstly go to my webpage
www.yogawise.co.uk for free downloads on introduction to yoga and why I teach yoga.
If you send me your e mail I will sendyou my last yoga newsletter which has lots of yoga related stuff!

Love and Light

Sammi

Spring Flower Meadow

2011-06-27T00:50:00.000-07:00

Being asked about the beautiful flowers posted on this page and they are from the wildflower meadow in Crane Park near where I live. Please look back in the blog pages to last spring to see some from last year if you wish and here are a few more from this year.

Glstonbury Festival was powerful this year with thousands stil looking for that which they cannot find. No need to look..no need to go anywhere.....You are IT!

Love and Light

Sammi

Happy Summer Solstice to All!

2011-06-20T02:04:00.000-07:00

Tuesday 21st June 2011 Summer Solstice.
Enjoy time in nature and give some silent space to reflect on those who are doing their best to help others in these troubled times and wish them well and wish them strength. This year is making us all decide what is to be our future path and who we wish to travel with on this journey to create beauty and peace even if we are in chaos. We can be a Pool of Joy for others and in that offering we will also experience the same Joy.

Beauty

2011-05-30T05:12:00.001-07:00

Nature inspires confidence

2011-05-30T04:03:00.000-07:00

I hope the True Self article has helped all those who read it to put into action its truths. Be present..Let go....Allow Santosha or Contentment with 'what is'

But 'How'?????? Always the need to be told how to 'do it' or excuses that it is alright for you but my situation is harder, more difficult, not right just yet to live in this way of awareness of the true self which is always peaceful.

The Bhagavad Gita advocates Action and it is indeed not enough to just read and nod our heads in agreement with these great inspiring words if we continue to live in the past or the future and continue to feel depressed, angry and fearful. These negative, mostly learned, habits will continue to sap our energy and block any new insights from helping us live more peacefully if we do not bring them into our awareness everytime they arise in the present moment. Patanjali in one sutra advises us to immediately substitute the opposite positive thought or emotion whenever a negative one arises and this is good first aid but we also have to address the root and why these negatives arise. Giving ourselves quiet time and cultivating detachment are the two major tools which have helped many in living more in the present which is all there really is if we are aware!

Iain and I have really had to practise what we preach this year as we have been inundated with family bereavements, health issues, happy life changing events too which also can cause upset to the safety of everyday routine and calm.

Krishnamurti would say that to do anything is just to create another conflict, another action based on the past which is the already known and therefore cannot help us as that which is original insight cannot come out of the known. I must admit that I do agree with Krishnamurti and it has caused me some real problems with offering teachings and even writing this blog because it does all seem so irrelevant!
However, on a human scale and from feedback it seems that the sharing of ways that help each other and the passing on of what is wisdom to us may indeed be of value to others. For this reason alone and without wishing to 'tell you what to see' I share the beauties of nature and yoga and Love.

It is not always easy in the world when we find ourselves in situations of non-communication or with people who do not speak our language; and I do not mean our native tongue here but rather our philosophical and ethical language. It is not easy, unless we are firmly committed to truth, to stand our ground amidst prejudice and bias and plain old ignorance and to remain detached and not get drawn into retaliation or negative emotions but to stay kind and compassionate.
It is a lesson of maturity to realise that some people will never awaken in this lifetime to deeper truths. We do not have to spend our precious time with them when it is not necessary but when we do have to be with them it is a chance to learn and grow and re-affirm our commitment to the true self shining through the darkness and not getting lost in it. This is not advocating a judgmental attitude towards others but rather the promotion of discernment and discrimination in the healthy, life affirming meaning of those two words.
2011 into 2012 in a great awakening opportunity for many as nature and old institutions change rapidly. Are you willing to open NOW?
Om shanti
Sammi

The True Self is always Peaceful

2011-03-13T08:32:00.000-07:00

Please read this article by Peter Russell which I recently found on the web and which is just what I was about to cover for my yoga circle. Peter has said it all so beautifully and succintly and as all Truth is one I know he will not mind us all sharing in this timeless wisdom.

Returning to Natural Mind by Peter Russell

People are disturbed, not by things, but by the view they take of them. — Epictitus

"In the final analysis," said the Dalai Lama, "the hope of every person is simply peace of mind." As with many great truths, these words resonate with something we know deep down. Beneath all our endeavours, we all want to be at peace, to feel content, fulfilled, at ease. None of us want to be in pain or suffer unnecessarily.

We may decide to change jobs, start a new relationship or take up a new hobby because we believe we will be happier. I may choose to go hiking because I expect to get some pleasure from it, a tangible endorphin rush from the exercise, or a feeling of warmth and closeness from spending time with a friend. I may spend time writing a book, foregoing other pleasures, because I gain satisfaction from my creative expression.

The gratification that we seek may not always be immediate. Most of us do not enjoy visiting the dentist, but we go in the hope that we will suffer less later. Or we may forego some personal gain and devote our time to helping elderly relatives or others in need; yet we do so because it brings some inner fulfillment. Even the masochist, who sets out to cause himself pain, does so because he takes some comfort from it.

It is not a bottom line that can be measured in numbers, but it is nevertheless the true arbiter of all our decisions. We may think we are seeking an external goal, but we are seeking that goal in the hope that, in one way or another, we will feel better for it.

Why then do we seldom find peace of mind? After all, we are intelligent beings, we can look ahead and plan for the future. Moreover, we have many tools and technologies with which to create a better world for ourselves. One would think that we, of all creatures, would be content and at ease. Yet the very opposite seems to be the case.

As far as I can tell, a dog spends more time at ease than its owner who is busy seeking the various things he or she thinks will bring satisfaction and fulfillment. Leave a dog with nothing to do, and it will probably lie down, put its chin on the ground, and watch the world go by. Leave us human beings with nothing to do, and it is not long before we complain of being bored, get restless, and start looking for things to fill the time. We worry what we might be missing and how we might improve things, or we go check off one more thing on that never-ending "to do" list.

Samsara

Paradoxically, it is our remarkable ability to change our world that has led us into this sorry state. We have fallen into the belief that if we are not at peace, then we must do something about it. We think we need to obtain something we don't yet have, get others to respond as we would like, enjoy a new experience, or, conversely, avoid some circumstance or person that is causing us distress. We assume that, if we could just get our world to be a particular way, we will finally be happy.

From the moment we are born our culture reinforces this assumption, encouraging us to believe that outer well-being is the source of inner fulfillment. As young children we learn from the example of our elders that it is important to be in control of things, that material possessions offer security. As we grow up, much of our education focuses on knowing the ways of the world in order that we might better manage our affairs and so find greater contentment and fulfillment. As adults, the daily deluge of television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and advertisements reinforces the belief that happiness comes from what happens to us. The net result is that we become addicted to things and circumstances.

Our material acquisitiveness may not look like a drug addiction, but the underlying pattern is the same. With drugs—whether they be alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tranquilizers, cocaine or heroin—people take them for one simple reason. They want to feel better. They want to feel happy, high, relaxed, in control, less anxious, temporarily free from some suffering. In this respect drug-takers are seeking nothing different from anyone else; it is just the way in which they are doing it that most societies find unacceptable.

Similarly with our addiction to having and doing, we are seeking a better state of mind. And, in the short term, it may appear to work. But any pleasure, happiness, or satisfaction we do find is only temporary. As soon as one "high" wears off we go in search of another "fix". We become psychologically dependent on our favorite sources of pleasure —food, music, driving, debating, football, television, shopping, whatever.

When this fails to bring any lasting satisfaction we do not question whether our approach may be mistaken. Instead we try even harder to get the world to give us what we want. We buy more clothes, go to more parties, eat more food, try to make more money. Or we give up on these and try different things. We take up squash, or look for new friends. Yet true peace of mind remains as elusive as ever.

We live in what Indian philosophies call the world of samsara, meaning "to wander on". We wander on, looking for fulfillment in a world which provides but temporary respites from discontent, a momentary pleasure followed by more wandering on in search of that ever-elusive goal.

The Clinging Mind

Throughout human history, there have been those who have woken up from the dream that our state of mind depends on what we have or do. They are the rishis, roshis, mystics, saints, lamas and other "wise ones" who have seen through the illusion that, if only we could get the world to be the way want, we would finally be happy. They have each, in their own way, rediscovered the same timeless truth about human consciousness: The mind in its natural state is already at ease.

By 'natural' they do not mean the state of mind in which we spend most of our time—which clearly is not usually one of ease and contentment—they are speaking of the mind before it becomes tarnished with worry, wanting, analyzing and planning. Time and again they have reminded us that we do not need to do anything, or go anywhere to be at ease. On the contrary, all our doing, all our seeking to change things, takes us in the opposite direction. We imagine something is missing, and with this self-created sense of lack comes discontent. Feelings of discontent cloud our consciousness, overshadowing the intrinsic ease of the mind in its natural, unsullied, state.

This was one of the Buddha's key realizations. He saw that we all experience what he called dukka. The word is often translated as "suffering," leading to the common misconception that Buddha taught that life is suffering. The word dukka is actually a negation of the word sukha, which has the meaning of ease (originally, a wheel that runs smoothly). So dukka means not-at-ease, and is probably best translated as discontent or unsatisfactoriness.Suffering, as we think of it, is an extreme form of discontent. Much more common—indeed, so common that it usually passes unnoticed—is the discontent that comes from wishing that things were different, worrying about what happened earlier, or hoping for a better future. Buddha realized that the root cause of this discontent was our clinging to our ideas of how things should or should not be. As soon as clinging enters the mind, we lose the natural state of ease.

Thus, to return to a state of ease, we have only to stop creating unnecessary discontent. That means letting go of our attachments as to how things should or should not be.

Letting Go

Letting go never seems easy. This is because we treat "letting go" as another task to do. We've become so enmeshed in the habit of doing that we mistakenly approach letting go in the same way. But you can't "do" letting go—however hard you try. It is our doing that is the problem. To let go we have to cease the "doing" of holding on. Letting go is allowing the mind to relax, accepting the present moment as it is, without resistance or judgement.

This is sometimes misinterpreted as accepting the world as it is, which can lead to a Pollyanna attitude of "everything is OK"; the world is perfect as it is. But there is a subtle, and crucial, distinction between accepting our experience of a situation and accepting the situation itself. Sadly, the world around us is rife with injustice, self-centredness and unnecessary suffering. No one, I hope, is proposing the kind of acceptance that says we can simply let such ills be. Accepting our experience of the situation, on the other hand, means not resisting what we are actually perceiving and feeling in the moment. There is nothing we can do to change our present experience. Wishing it otherwise is a pointless waste of time and energy. All it does is create additional discontent.

The most commonly recommended way to become more present is to bring our attention back to our physical experience, noticing how it feels to be a living being—the feelings in our bodies, the sensations of breathing, the air against the skin, the sounds around us. Our immediate sensory experience is always in the present moment. It is when we start thinking about our experience, what it means, and where it might lead, that our attention is drawn into the past or the future—and back into the world of samsara.

The more often we can come back to the present moment, the more the mind is able to relax. When it is fully relaxed, totally at ease, we rediscover the mind in its natural, undisturbed state.

In Indian philosophy the profound and delightful ease of natural mind is called Nirvana. To many, the word conjures images of some blissed out, euphoric state of consciousness. But its original meaning is very different—and much more instructive. The word "nirvana" literally means "to blow out", as in extinguishing a flame. When we accept our experience of the moment, as it is, without lament or resistance, the flames of greed, hatred, jealousy and the many other unwelcome ramifications of our discontent die down; extinguished by a lack of fuel.

No longer blinded by self-concern, we are better able to see a situation for what it is. We are free from imagined lacks and needs and able to act in accord with what the situation requires. Whether it be helping others, righting injustices, working for some social cause, taking care of our health, raising children, whatever we choose to focus out energies upon, we can do so with greater commitment and deeper compassion.

We spend so much energy trying to find contentment in the world around us. If we spent a fraction of this energy allowing the mind to relax, letting go of some of our attachments, we would find more of the peace of mind that, in the final analysis, we all are all seeking. And the world around us would surely become a much better place.

c. Peter Russell

Yogawise 2011!

2011-01-03T14:20:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to one and all. Come and join us in 2011. All welcome.

New term begins on Monday 24th January Beginners 7.30 pm,
Tuesday at Twickenham Library at 11 am for all levels
Wednesday 7.15 pm for Raja Yoga flow class.
All these are twelve week courses : - Finish 11,12,13th April)
E mail to book please. or leave a comment.

Devon Silent Retreat is from sunday 10th to 14th July and is followed this year by a new offering of a long weekend of yoga and walking in Beautiful Dartmoor national park.
Thursday 14th to 17th July. It is possible to come for the whole week and enjoy the silence and peace and then a social time to really connect with like minded people which will feel amazing with an open heart after the deep silence.

Here is some lovely thanks we received from Theresa after she came with us:

Thank you both for making the retreat in Devon an amazing experience for me. It was wonderful to spend time in such beautiful surroundings and to be at peace in the silence. My spiritual journey is not always easy but you are both an inspiration to me.

Well Theresa..it is not easy for any of us and that is why we meet together to share and to appreciate each other. Come again!

Winter Solstice Blue Moon Full Lunar Eclipse

2010-12-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

The magic number twelve met in the park today to celebrate this auspicious time for
re-newal and postive intentions for the good of all.

Huccaby Pool Devon Retreat 2010

2010-10-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

More Autumnal nature photos

2010-10-17T07:31:00.000-07:00

For those who have been enjoying the wildflower meadow photos we are adding some more mushrooms from Bushy Park and autumnal colours from Marble Hll Park and the Twickenham riverside walk past York House Gardens.

The Wild flower meadows are by the A316 near Sixth Cross Road and also by Old Deer Park and you can walk along the River Crane Path and enjoy some beautiful wooden seat sculptures too! We are so blessed to live in this glorious park of the UK.

WILDFLOWER MEADOW - TWICKENHAM

2010-09-04T12:47:00.000-07:00

PARK PLACE HAMPSHIRE WEEKEND RETREAT

2010-09-04T12:28:00.000-07:00

NOVEMBER 12TH - 14TH WEEKEND RETREAT

2010-09-04T12:19:00.000-07:00

Winter Weekend Retreat 2010
Fri Nov 12 to Sun Nov 14
In the Meon Valley, Hampshire

This break away is to give us time to go deeper in our Raja Yoga and also to have some social time together.

It is a delightful short trip (one hour and a half) down through lovely countryside (once off the M3) and we will have time to explore many of the walks over the weekend.

The Venue is hosted by South Indian nuns who follow St Francis of Assisi and who advocate YOGA! All of which fits in with our Spiritual Laws group work.

Now, if they can be open minded then we also need to keep an open mind especially if we come from a background of Catholicism or any other religious ‘bad’ experience. The plus side is that they offer Indian cooking specialities as an option on the menu!

The main building is listed from the Georgian period and the grounds are spacious and peaceful. Our wing is not new or luxurious but comfortable and many rooms overlook the garden. These will be allocated to first come, first served.
Plus, we will have our own space and all single occupancy rooms. Not en-suite but with plenty of clean showers and toilets on the corridor with easy access.
A kitchenette and sitting area for our use with supplied drinks and to keep our own brought preferences.

There is space here to be alone if that is what you wish but also plenty to explore physically, mentally and spiritually.

The cost includes all meals from Friday evening to after lunch on Sunday, single accommodation, Yoga/Qi- Gong, meditation and spiritual laws teachings Guided Walks and our undivided attention for your needs during this period in a small group.

Optional extras include meeting us for lunch on the Friday at a beautiful venue near Botley village overlooking an Equestrian centre. (varied menu)
Stop at a Meon Valley Vineyard on the route and bring some Holy Wine for the weekend or to take home. There are National Trust Houses nearby and beautiful garden centres for your trip down or back. We also aim to visit the Krishnamurti centre for tea and a walk around on Sunday on our way home,

We need to confirm the bookings ASAP so do get back to me with a firm commitment or if you need further information.

Om shanti
Sammi

AUTUMN TERM DATES 2010

2010-09-04T12:04:00.000-07:00

Seems like we have not seen many of you for a long time and our last social gathering on the summer solstice was such fun with lovely fresh fruits , food and drinks. Thanks to those who came and shared the circle with us.

New yogis joining our little band and some lapsed yogis returning so do please book your space for what you want as you know we keep the group numbers small. Also non-members please consider joining the club for £12 for the year to get the newsletter, discounts and priority booking. It helps me keep you up to date with yoga news and to know you are committed to this group.

E mail to book your space or to ask for further details.

Diary Summary

Due Now: Club Membership 2010 (if not already paid)

13.9.10 Monday Beginners 12 week course - Meadway

13.9.10 Monday Meditation 12 week Circle - Meadway

14.9.10 Tuesday Twickenham Library Class 12 week course

15.9.10 Wednesday Flow Class 12 week course (members only)- Meadway

25.10.10 Monday Workshop - Asana for our Dosha (constitution/body type)- Meadway

27.10.10 Wednesday Workshop - Asana and Pranayama for Weight Balance - Meadway

12.11.10 November Weekend Retreat Meon Valley, Hampshire

Term Ends Wednesday 8th December 2010

Silent Retreat 2010 Come on in

2010-07-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

A beautiful retreat where we were Alone and yet All One. Lovely flowers from Alan and words of thanks and appreciation from those who came which are brightening up our home and hearts and fueling that warm feeling that stayed with us after our time together in Silence.
We wish you all a happy summer time and hope you get out into nature and drink in her free prana to help us all through these next two years of turbulence .
Many are joining our little yoga band which is so wonderful and the continuity of those who have been with us so long now bodes well for 2012 when we will be offering a special gathering to those who are ready to receive divine energy and guidance . Watch this space!

Yogis galore

2010-07-25T08:50:00.000-07:00

Hot tub yoga hall and Francesca Massage room

2010-07-25T08:29:00.001-07:00

Dart river Hugs and farewells Val's Painting

2010-07-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

Italy Laughter Yoga 2010

2010-06-11T13:36:00.000-07:00

We are One

2010-06-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

Reflections from Italy Yoga Holiday

2010-06-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

Ciao Yogis

We are back in to the flow in Twickers again and here are some memories for those who came with us on this wonderful journey and to inspire those who will comein the future!

Om shanti shanti shanti

Gathering by the Wishing Well

2010-06-11T11:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks from Sophie

2010-06-11T11:40:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank you for this beautiful time spent together.

Last year it was already very good. This time it was pure magic.

I came home a lot 'lighter', much more detached and positive.

It is amazing what you do to me.

Thank you for having taken care of us so well.

Love

Sophie

Wishing Well

2010-06-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

We arrive and by the wishing well join together to bless our week ahead

Gathering in the evening sunshine

2010-06-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

Misty Sunrise meditation

2010-06-11T11:18:00.000-07:00

Yoga meditation hall

2010-06-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

Meditation hall

2010-06-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

More yogis

2010-06-11T11:06:00.000-07:00

yogis

2010-06-11T11:00:00.000-07:00

Farewell dinner thank you all

2010-06-11T10:51:00.000-07:00

Last night dinner

2010-06-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Lunchtime and Silvia's Tiramisu

2010-06-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

Silvia Goddess of food - by Babak

2010-06-11T10:25:00.000-07:00

Garden views

2010-06-11T10:18:00.000-07:00

Swimming Pool

2010-06-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Poolside

2010-06-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Sunrise and sunset

2010-06-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sunrise and Moon

2010-06-11T09:53:00.000-07:00

Farewells and Silvia's Birthday

2010-06-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

Walk into Orvieto poppy fields and vineyards

2010-06-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

Walk into Orvieto view of Duomo

2010-06-11T09:23:00.000-07:00

Walk into Orvieto - Pizzeria

2010-06-11T09:17:00.000-07:00

Walk into Orvieto Castle Walls

2010-06-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

Walk into Orvieto Patrick's Well

2010-06-11T09:03:00.000-07:00

Lunch at Lake Bolsena

2010-06-11T08:57:00.000-07:00

Lake Bolsena

2010-06-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

The Duomo Orvieto

2010-06-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

Around Orvieto

2010-06-11T08:16:00.000-07:00

Past Italy Holidays Pictures and videos

2010-03-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

Italy in May - Yoga Holiday

2010-03-06T09:15:00.000-08:00

Come and join us in a small group in a beautiful villa in Umbria; the Green Heart of Italy.
There is space to relax and dream and a regular daily yoga practise with attention and support .
Home cooked italian vegetarian meals from arrival dinner on the saturday 22nd May to breakfast before we leave on the saturday 29th May is all included in the price. Please note that extra is friday night dinner when we will dine out and celebrate our week together.

The weather is usually 25 centigrade at this time of the year !

Enjoy the beautiful pool and gardens outdoors or the grand Villa rooms to cool down indoors and rest, read, nap!

Teaching is in english but we have students from Belgium, Italy, Uk, Portugal, Poland, Finland, Germany coming and we are all one and we are all welcome!

Orvieto is a stunning location and the surrounding areas are also enticing for exploring the real Italy. It is the spiritual home land of St Francis and produced artists, musicians and continues to inspire all who come with an open heart.

We have chosen this place carefully and we offer it to those who are seeking to join in a special week to deepen their yoga practise and spiritual journey.

Please contact us for further information and we look forward to meeting some new people from different cultures and lands. Yoga is One!

http://www.yogawise.co.uk/

Italy Sat 22nd May to Sat 29th May 2010

2010-02-11T13:51:00.000-08:00

Join us in Italy for a yoga holiday in Umbria Italy in a gracious villa

between Florence and Rome

Price includes two sessions of Yoga per full day in a beautiful hall, Meals, evening offerings and full use of all the extensive park grounds, villa and swimming pool. Full details upon request.

Small group and experienced, sensitive teacher.

Happy New Year Yogis

2010-01-10T03:59:00.000-08:00

Hi to one and all.

Wonderful to see so many of you at the social to end my long run at Cannons/Nuffields and to celebrate our yoga club for dedicated followers of YOGA........not fashion!

New term begins on Wednesday 20th for a pranayama workshop. Contact me for details .

Taking bookings now for Devon Silent Retreat in July 6th to 10th and

Italy yoga holiday May 22nd to 29th.

See website for photos and testimonials for 2009 retreats

Those of you who are in need of some creative opening or healing may like to join the Om circles starting on Monday 25th January at 7.30 to 8.30.

Open to Club members or after invitation only so do again contact me to discuss options.

http://www.yogawise.co.uk/ or e mail sammi@btinternet.com

Think it is cold here then think again. Picture of Gangotri shrine - from our pilgrimage to the source of the Ganges and our gratitude to Pratham for taking us to see Mataji who welcomed us with such grace - what an inspiration to meet her and see the light in her face from her connection to Krishna. See blog entries for March 2008 for more pictures.

Winter Solstice Mistletoe!

2009-12-21T10:04:00.001-08:00

Winter Solstice 2009

2009-12-21T09:42:00.000-08:00

We gathered to celebrate the solstice and the magic number 9 manifested even with the cold weather and rain! So with Iain and me that made a circle of 11 and thanks to all who came and affirmed the positve energy over the negative; The Light to shine over the Darkness.
So Ham silent walk to alter the vibration in the mind, body and spirit until we reached the Hornbeam cathedral.
The Winter Solstice meaning and Ritual were voiced.
Bija Mantras to energise the chakras and then the four corners were faced with affirmations of :

Acceptance Gratitude Letting Go and Trust.

Silent walk along the river to the Totem Pole and Prana energisation and Qi Gong flows.
Hugs and jumps and deep breaths to end our deep reflection of this time of stillness.
Social walk around the pond and some to our lovely meal together (Jasmine tea!) and some to
homeward bound.

Oms were resounding and heartfelt.

I know a lot of us feel wobbly and a little fearful at this time and it is only by gathering and sharing that we learn that even this will pass and that the true self remains:
Whole and Complete and Perfect - this is where we find true happiness and peace no matter what is happening in the drama of our lives and that of others.
Only meditation and spiritual laws learning and practise can help us achieve the detachment to stay grounded when the ground is literally or metaphorically taken away from beneath us.
It is best to learn this before we are 'drowning' as the advice" you should have learnt to swim"
is no use as we go under for the third time!
I urge you to join the spiritual laws class in January as it is more important in this Kali Age than any asana class you can attend.
Our love and light to all life andour wishes for health and happiness for 2010.
Om shanti shanti shanti

November Weekend Retreat

2009-11-23T03:46:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who came and shared in this reflective break.

Time to be still whilst sharing space and Love with others .

We had a 'warm' welcome by our Goanese Nuns and a thought provoking talk from Krishnamurti to end the retreat:

"Love is the Solution" and ultimately "Be a Light to Yourself"'

Highlights included the Qi Gong Flow under the four hundred year old Cedar Tree , the deeper yoga practise of pranayama with openings, meditation in the St Francis room, Talks and Readings which enhanced the group experience...Mushrooms.(Val) .Pooh and Piglet (Alan) , Daffodils (Jemma) , Stormy Seas (Alison)! Vips and Riitta next time!

The Wheel of Life (Karen) and the Circle of Life (Iain) - Wisdom from an american comedian and a native american indian. And of course Dharma and Life Purpose (Sammi)

Sharing Food , Sharing Humour , Sharing deep experiences and LOVE!

Enjoy the photos and see you again in class, social or at the Winter Solstice Walk

All are Welcome

Retreat with Yogawise

2009-09-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Retreat Nov 20 to 22nd - Meon Valley, Hampshire

2009-09-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

Winter Raja Yoga Retreat for some space for your self . Suitable for students who are seeking to go deeper than just asana practise and who would like to join a supportive group in a friendly exploration of 'truth'. Please e mail sammi@btinternet.com for further information.

Yoga is Poetry

2009-08-26T02:45:00.000-07:00

Yoga is Poetry
It cannot be governed by a Body
It is a body that flows, a mind that is still, a spirit that is free
A Heart which overflows with Love
Friendship to all not a chosen few
Kindness as a way of life not a networking skill
The I that is You and the You that is Me
Respect and honour for all our teachers
The holders of light who give so generously
The promise to pass on without thought of reward
That which is sacred and true
All this in the spirit of humanity
So our children will remember us with affection
For the world we leave to their guardianship
We are One
Yoga is One
Peace
Sammi

Yogawise Morning/Evening Affirmations

2009-08-26T02:38:00.000-07:00

Yogawise Morning Affirmation
I live in freedom from inner and outer harm
I live in Joy and Acceptance of things as they are
I live in Peace Love and Truth
From the Centre of my Heart
I wish this Harmony for all sentient beings
For the good of all that is and for all that can be

Yogawise Evening Affirmation
I let go I let go I let go
All that is past is past
All that is to come will come
I exist now
Perfect and Whole
I radiate Love and Compassion
I live in Joy
Please forgive me for all the hurt
I have caused you in times when I forgot my true self
Which is pure Love
I freely forgive you for hurting me.
All is perfect and whole in this moment of Now
I radiate Love and Compassion
I live in Joy
I am You
You are Me
We are One

Dartmoor Silent Retreat - views within

2009-08-10T15:15:00.000-07:00

Ayurvedic Massage - by Jacqueline

2009-08-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

We were pampered by the wonderful Ayurvedic massage from Jacqueline.

We were already quite relaxed as you can imagine but when we were given a wonderful warming aromatic massage it reduced us to relaxation on yet another level. We were also introduced to Hopi candles and the warm fizzing in our ears again another soothing form of therapeutic relaxation - both are Recommended.

Ayurveda and yoga have been practiced for centuries and have been mentioned in the scriptures of the Vedas and Upanishads.

Silent Walk to St Raphael's and Huccaby Bridge.

2009-08-10T14:29:00.000-07:00

We walked in silence down the lane and through the ancient woods. We crossed the road with awareness and down another lane to reach St Raphael's Church. The only Anglican Church dedicated to St Raphael in the country. He is a Healer and also a patron saint of travellers.

In silence we prayed, repeated mantras and reflected on the beauty within and without.The church is a welcome refuge in the midst of a weathered moor.

We continued in silence down to the river and to the flowing waters of Huccaby bridge to lay in the sun and wonder at the beauty surrounding us. Are we not so priviliged to be present?

St Raphael's Church - Huccaby - the one and only

2009-08-10T14:16:00.000-07:00

Silent Retreat - Silent Walk

2009-08-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

Louise and Theresa Kind words of Thanks

2009-08-05T11:08:00.000-07:00

Louise
Yes, really..Love and Gratitude for creating such a wonderful place to 'be'. I came back more relaxed than ever.
Blue lights eh? British Gas..A Tardis? No just the result of my heart singing.
Take care and see you in September. Left me with food for thought till then!

Theresa
Dear Sammi and Iain
Thank you both for making the retreat in Devon an amazing experience for me. It was wonderful to spend time in such a beautiful surroundings and to be at peace in the silence.
My spiritual journey is not always easy but you are both an inspiration to me ..Love

Poems Dartmoor 2009

2009-08-05T11:02:00.000-07:00

Val’s Poem Dartmoor 2009

River Dart Morning

The path twists and turns along the river bank,
Earth trodden down, interlaced with roots and branches;
Always the sound of the river, cascading over boulders.
Water: the source of life.

Woods: a green world of leaves and ferns,
A cloud hides the sun, a sense of menace and mystery descends.
Dappled with sunlight , a place of magic.

Evening Brimpts Farm
Shadows lengthen in the evening sun,
White clouds glide gently across a blue sky,
Swallows swoop and dive.
The breeze bathes my face.
A stonechat on the gatepost calls
Warning as the farm cat prowls.
Bees hum among the flowers and grasses.
The rest is silence.

For Sammi, who always lifts the clouds and brings magic and
Silence into our busy lives.

Poems Dartmoor 2009

2009-08-05T10:52:00.000-07:00

Devon Retreat 2009 Ula’s Poem

Summing Up

Midges to moonrise Moonrise to sunrise
Sunrise to yawn Yawn to stretch
Stretch to mantra Mantra to mat
Mat to prana Prana to dog
Dog to cobra Cobra to child
Child to grown-up Grown-up to tears
Tears to laughter Laughter to silence
Silence to circle Circle to hands
Hands to let go Let go to acceptance
Acceptance to peace

Poems from Retreat 2009

2009-08-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

Vips Poem Dartmoor 2009

What a magic place and time we have had.
You are on your own in silence - but never alone - sharing your days with birds singing, colourful butterflies, rabbits playing in the grass, wild horses and cows - dramatic landscapes with exceptional beauty in any weather.

It has been the same for thousands of years.

The meadows are covered with wild flowers at its best and dancing grasses in the wind plus fresh water streams.

This opens your eyes to a new consciousness you are privileged to have experienced.
With our yoga practices in such a fantastic place makes you understand that all is one.

August in Twickers

2009-08-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

Hi Yogis,

Birthdays, weddings, clearings and walking in the rain and sunshine. We are back and awaiting the Red Moon on thursday 6th August, our full moon lunar eclipse before the big influx of Light for those who are aware on the 15th to 20th August.

Stay present and quiet. All is well .

Retreat poems and pictures will appear in due course. We are chilling before the new term begins in September with a workshop on the Wednesday 16th. I am writing the latest newsletter and this will be going out to all club members next week with the calender of events to give you time to book before it goes out to the general public.

Silent Retreat 2009

2009-06-26T01:23:00.000-07:00

One week to go before we leave for beautiful Dartmoor and our seventh year at Brimpts Barn.

Take a look at the past retreat pictures and testimonials and tune in with our intent to create a peaceful energy in ourselves first, the group, the larger yoga circle and then out into the

guruverse. Please join us in this critical time in our world and be a peaceful being.

Allow creativity to flow out in paintings, poems and of course our beloved music.

Nada yoga - the yoga of sound - is the quickest way to self realisatioin this Kali age of disharmony and confusion.

" Silent mind has great creativity but this is not all. Silent mind is Peaceful , Blissful and Healthy.

It radiates these qualities out through the person to the surroundings. People who know how to cultivate a quiet mind not only are in touch with their inner creativity, they also radiate a youthfulness and optimism that effects everyone nearby. They have Good Vibrations!"

Chant and sing and dance............

Love and Light

Sammi

Ekadasi Day 20th May Wednesday

2009-05-20T01:04:00.000-07:00

Hi Yogis,

I know many of us are feeling unsettled with the heavy energy changes about. Today is a good day to fast or at least eat raw foods and drink plenty of water and juices. Walk in nature and breathe with awareness of the prana coming in to refresh and enliven the body, mind and spirit.

Release the old with the exhale and truly let go.

Stay in the Guha (inner cave) where all is still and quiet. Make this your centre that you go out into the world from and where you return to recognise the Self that does not change; that does not fear; that just 'IS' Give more to others to discover how much you already have.

Even after all this time the sun never says to the Earth

"You owe me"

Look what happens with a love like that

It lights up the whole World

Om shanti

Sammi

YOGA POSTURES

2009-05-14T10:45:00.000-07:00

It has been suggested that there are no photos of postures.....

Well at last we are able to oblige courtesy of Serge ....who kindly took the time to take our best sides...Thank you also to the yogis who allowed us to take their photos.......Alan, Alison, Anastasia, Bisrat, Mhairi, Riitta, Simon, Sophie & Stephanie.

Meditation in movement - thanks to Sammi's wonderful intuitive teaching - we love the flow!

Namaste - Om shanti. Iain.

Child Tiger Standing Cobra Chair Downward Dog

2009-05-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

Prayer Twist Cobra Pushne Child

2009-05-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Downward Dog Warrior Upward Dog

2009-05-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

Forward bends Camel twist Shoulder stand Dolphin

2009-05-14T10:07:00.000-07:00

Headstand - Sirshasana

2009-05-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

Wheel - Chakrasana raised / wide legs

2009-05-14T09:50:00.000-07:00

Seated postures outside plus flow

2009-05-14T09:41:00.000-07:00

Yoga flows and postures

2009-05-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

Heart Flow Video clip

2009-05-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

Shanti Shanti Shanti video clip

2009-05-05T12:57:00.001-07:00

Video Clips of Italy yoga 2

2009-05-05T04:20:00.000-07:00

Video clips of Italy Yoga 1

2009-05-05T03:51:00.000-07:00

Yogis Italian style

2009-05-04T14:07:00.000-07:00

Testimonial e mails coming in fast and furious!

2009-05-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

Such beautiful e mails and cards arriving after our Easter yoga holiday.
Bisrat's family and friends want to know what drugs she is on as she has become so calm.
Mhari has quit her job and been down to see us already with Simon who she says is the most chilled pilot in his division.
Serge and Sophie sent some great photos and words and hope to meet again soon...Costa Rica?
Alison also sent fab photos and wishes for another yoga holiday together.......she helped us so much with translations for mountain trips and restaurant delights...good karma points.
Riitta says she is not good with words to express how much she got out of the whole yoga holiday but then wrote that she would come anywhere with us which we found very touching.
InSabina want us back and Anastasia and Dusanka from there want to join us again so we must have done something harmonious amidst the shakes!
We loved being with all of you and thank you for amazing attendance (even at 6 am!) and your enthusiasm.
Keep in touch!

Alan's Flowers and Thanks

2009-05-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Alan, Thanks for these lovely flowers and words and for picking us up at the airport.

Dear Sammi and Iain

Thank you again for our wonderful Yogi holiday ...A cracking success!

Om shanti

LOVE

Alan.

Stephanie sent a Rainbow testimonial

2009-05-04T12:40:00.000-07:00

Date: 21st April 09
Dearest Sammi and Iain

I can't thank you enough for this yoga week in Torri. I was desperate for deep relaxation on a physical level but also, and I did not realise that, on an emotional and psychological level.
This is what I've achieved thanks to your teachings and loving readings, your ability to spread love and peace to all of us.
I will forever remain grateful to you. I've come back to my previous life full of energy and serenity, as well as (and it's most important) tips and ways to make this feeling last.
I was welcomed by a rainbow , coming off the train on arrival day and you've managed to print it deep into my heart by the time we parted.
Namaste,
Stephanie (well surrounded by her shield of light!)

Thank you Stephanie for your lightness of being and gratitude even when your luggage did not arrive with you!