RADIANT SPARKS OF INSPIRATION

anchortherapies888
Jul 13, 2015
3 min read

The practice of yoga offers us one of the most timeless teachings in the invitation to remember that we are not simply sole individuals, but instead a part of a masterful collective. Although we can honour and celebrate what we offer to community and the world, it is vital to take time to steep in the sweetness of what we receive from people and life around us. In a sense, the pause of receiving a spark of insight from an outside source gifts us with fuel and propulsion for our own contribution.

In human culture and religion throughout the ages including Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Indian, and Christian, saints and deities are often depicted surrounded by a halo of light. It was very common for these beings to be teachers and a literal source of inspiration for many seeking hope and a new way of being. Why was this image of a golden ring chosen as the symbol of an illuminated individual? Light implies an ability to see more, feel more, and be rooted in an expansive vision filled with openness. Although darkness has its place, to offer contrast and help us become more sensitive, light carries with it a sense of revelation. It elucidates what is occurring on the outside and inside of our being. Light shines upon our awakenings and provides the stimulation needed to take inspiration and turn it into concrete reality.

The practice of yoga invites us to align the body, connect to the breath, tap into the creative possibilities of the mind, and source the potent abilities of our intuitive makeup. Each one of these facets of our multidimensional being is a whole conduit in itself to support us in feeling excited about life. Whether we drink in inspiration from our teacher's presence, the kindness of a fellow student, or feel a spark after an arm balance or invigorating back bend, it boils down to opening up and receiving the wonder of the world right before our eyes.

Who are the people, poems, elements of nature, conversations, or sights on your path that inspire you to connect to the deeper parts of your heart? Beethoven discovered Bach and utilised Johann's music to serve as a spark for his creative compositions. Thoreau crafted his vision based on time he spent with Emerson. Native American culture was inspired by the land and chose to live in harmony with the Earth and respect the intelligence of nature.

Where inspiration resides there is light and where illumination is present there are sparks to be found. Whether it be a simple deep breath sitting in traffic that reawakens, an illuminating heartfelt piece of writing that opens the heart, an innocent smile from a child that speaks sweetness, or sensitive conscious touch from our beloved, it is up to us, to open, seek out, and receive the majesty of the world. Like a simmering stew full of insight and exaltation willing and able to light us up so we can make a sweeter offering as we dance in the gift of this life.

Danny Arguetty