Surprise!

While reviewing the thoughtful home-works from the last training module I led, I was deeply moved that so many were surprised by what they experienced, felt and learned in their 40-day practice plan.

I thought: “Wow, our practice, after many years, can continue to bring us to new horizons—what a gift!”

It is true for me too. Not daily, but often enough, I find my self trying something slightly different, whether that’s sequentially, or pacing or a whole new subtle exploration.

After many decades of practice, I welcome the new and the surprises even as I continue to commit to the familiar, and indeed, the tradition.

Here’s an Inquiry to help us all traverse the bridge into surprise:

Lie down… Observe your body: What are you sensing today? How about your breath? Check in with your heart: What feelings are coming up right now? And your mind, your thoughts: What thoughts are rising up? …

And with all this input, What simple movements are wanting to come? Can you follow the subtle urges and let yourself explore? play a little, even? When the habits of moving into familiar territory begin (think known stretches, poses), can you pause and get simple again?

Observe the quality of your awareness and the tender open feelings in your heart-center.

Stay with this only as long as it is enjoyable, then continue on with your known world.

The more regularly we allow such explorations, the more this attitude will arise on its own.