In my last blog, I wrote about the experience of arriving in Vancouver when it was covered in a blanket of snow. I mentioned that when we went to bed that night, we left the blinds open so that we could enjoy the beautiful display from nature.

The next morning, I woke up and looked out the window to an amazing sight. (more…)

And so the list-making begins. Before the first of the year, just after the first of the year, or perhaps six months into the year, we race to set our sights on achieving an insurmountable list of “to do’s.” I am not saying lists are bad; they can be very productive and a reminder that we still believe in hope and can generate faith.

For myself, this coming year I foresee more time to be still, to be quiet, and to listen. (more…)

So there I was, at a New Year’s party where, apart from my husband and my mother, I didn’t know anyone except my cousin, who was hosting the party. The other guests, although friendly and sociable, spent most of the time chatting about hockey and their children. Having no interest in hockey and no children, this left me at somewhat of a disadvantage but I persevered with the small talk, trying to find something in common with someone. (more…)

Ah, Christmas…a time of cheer, goodwill to all and joy to the world. Wait – what planet am I visiting from?!

If we listen to all the panic around us, we’ll hear that retail is in a decline in this economic downturn. Well, it probably is but I wouldn’t have thought so when I was at the mall yesterday. (more…)

Poverty is all around us. Perhaps some of us are fortunate enough not to have it right on our doorstep, but we’ve all seen and read about the devastating conditions that many people live in. And I’m sure, like me, you’ve often wondered what you – as only one person – can do to help alleviate all this suffering. (more…)

There is often a great deal of controversy surrounding yoga when it is offered in church centers. This is due to the perception that yoga is being promoted as a “religious” practice. However, many people of varied faiths have found a way to understand and accept yoga for its physical benefits while managing to infuse their own spiritual practices. (more…)

Jane Tuma is deepening her life on many levels. Her love and commitment to a yoga practice came from her desire to find a solution to her stressful job as a CPA. In an article from YogaChicago resource guide, we learn about Jane Tuma and her journey from CPA to Iyengar Yoga and to Presbyterian minister. (more…)

To lift my spirits, I sing. And this month – with mercury in retrograde and the fire season in California and a summer of strange and wobbly changes that have affected my bank account, my health and my confidence – I’ve been singing a lot! (more…)

Having participated in an all-night meditation and chanting session in honor of Sivaratri, gave me plenty of time to reflect on and wonder about Siva energy. (And when I say “all-night”- I mean from 9pm – 6am)!
First, let me explain what Sivaratri is and why I participate in this annual “night of Siva.” Siva (also spelled Shiva) is often described as the ultimate yogi in deep meditation. He is painted with long flowing hair (of the river Ganga) and coiled snakes embracing him. Stories about Siva portray him as both a devoted ascetic who renounces the world and then with Parvati and their child, Ganesha. (more…)