Do I uphold the yama (moral rule) of ahimsa (non-violence)? My automatic answer is, “Of course.” When I think of non-violence, my mind leaps to egregious examples of violence. Murder. Arson. Chasing cats with vacuum cleaners. I’d never do any of that. But then I read books that define ahimsa broadly. In addition to not…… Continue reading Halloween treats and ahimsa
Who wears short shorts? Who wears high heels?
Short shorts, sure. High heels, never! High heels are de rigueur for women to feel conventionally dressed up. Whether old or young, rich or poor, women love the way heels make them look (elongated legs) and feel (glamorously sexy). Me? I love shoes (and admit to a recent splurge on a pair of high, but…… Continue reading Who wears short shorts? Who wears high heels?
The significance of straight A’s and perfect asanas
I first heard about yoga competitions a year or two ago, watching a TV news reporter interview three competitors, a female champ, plus a boy and girl. The kids, in particular, were fascinating to watch. Their lithe bodies moved smoothly into advanced asanas. Both seemed reserved and introspective, as if yoga were an oasis for…… Continue reading The significance of straight A’s and perfect asanas
Can you touch your toes?
Last week, I happened to observe a bunch of Chinese kids hanging out after school. A little girl, perhaps six, was doing homework with two boys, possibly 12 or 13. First she memorized songs and then she read aloud a few questions on PE. “Can you touch your toes?” she asked the boys. They were…… Continue reading Can you touch your toes?
Ginger and karma yoga
For over a decade, among my closest friends was Ginger, a calico cat rescued from the wild. Beautiful, with striking markings, she had a feral streak and the classic temperamental calico personality. We had our roommate clashes; she was not the docile type and liberally used claws and teeth to make a point. Once, during…… Continue reading Ginger and karma yoga
