Sukala's Blog

Personalized Relaxation Script

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How To Meditate For Beginners

Check these 7 easy steps on how to meditate for beginners, including relaxing your body, how to breathe and the correct posture.

Brain Waves During Meditation

The altered brain waves during meditation create the happiness and contentment that begins spilling over into all your daily activities!

Creative Visualization Strategy For Achieving Your Goal.

Creative visualization strategy can help you with short or longer-term goals like procrastinating, weight loss or becoming your real, authentic self!

Stress Reduction Workshop: Group Nature Meditations

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SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (JUNE 22-08)

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

Please Note: Shandar will return in August. Enjoy the final segment, below, for June.---

Installment #15

Every monk was troubled at times by lust. Before the woman came into his dreams, Shandar proudly believed his lust was gone. He’d even forgotten that pride is an enemy. Like other inner enemies, pride prevented one from seeing the truth, even when others knew it. The monks were accepting of one another’s blind spots, though, knowing that Master Kensar was not fooled, and around him their egos would be worked on until enlightenment was attained. A true master like Kensar, descended from a lineage of masters, could save a true seeker from the iron grip of ego.

Under Kensar’s gaze, Shandar’s breath was noticeably shallow, as self-doubt assailed him. Shandar dreaded feeling vulnerable, even though the sage often said that vulnerability is necessary to transcend ego. His grief had cleansed his guilt over Rakki’s death. But now Kensar was probing a deeper layer of truth and Shandar could hardly hear what his teacher was saying. Then the master began to sing an ancient spiritual poem. His deep voice was steeped in love; his face was ecstatic. Shandar’s emotions became calm. As his breath deepened, he entered the gap, the space between thoughts.

Kensar was speaking again. His words brought Shandar back from his spontaneous meditation. He heard the master say: “The Goddess is within all women. There is no shame in beauty. Lakshmi appears in meditation when She is loved. Seeing Her is marvelous and it is rare. She looks naked to you is because you still have desires. But don’t worry; every soul has lifetimes of accumulated desires. It is all cleansed, over time by Her grace. Your visions are not evil, they are a blessing. Be happy, Shandar!”

Shandar was stunned. He felt like the Goddess Herself had stood before him. The master’s words shone in his heart like a golden sunrise, and he wept openly with a sweet smile on his lips. He felt gratitude and wonder. He understood: Nothing is wrong with me! How amazing; how wonderful. I haven’t fallen from the path! Kensar’s eyes were upturned and his face was radiant. He was already in another world.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (JUNE 15-08)

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

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Installment #14

Shandar yawned, stretching. It was 4:15 a.m. He dimly recalled a scuffle and throaty meows during the night. He discovered a tiny remnant of Kula’s catch and disposed of it, mentally congratulating Kula. After bathing, he wrapped the monastic brown and yellow robes around his body. Even in summer early mornings were very cold. He pulled a crimson wool shawl over one shoulder, preparing for meditation. Looking out the window Shandar was awestruck by the pink and golden hues of sunlight striking the majestic mountains. A warm, tingling energy stirred in the center of his chest.

Shandar heard a light knock. It was Arku, bright and cheerful with a message. “The Master is waiting for you in the Spring Room.” Shandar thanked Arku, wondering at his mirthful smile as the monk turned to leave. As he left his room, Shandar resolved not to tell Kensar about last night’s vision in meditation. He’d said enough on the depressing subject of his dreams and lust. As he walked toward the stairs, his thoughts went to the strange events of the past few days. How beautiful were the green eyes of the snow leopard, as it had revived him. An outrageous thought came to mind but he laughed at himself thinking, “That’s impossible”.

At the second floor landing, Shandar turned left toward the Spring Room. He entered the room softly. Kensar was arranging five gorgeous, dark pink peonies in a vase. The sage looked up and greeted Shandar: “Good morning. I hope you slept well.” Shandar nodded and said, “It’s good to be alive and to be here, Kensar-ji”. Naami shuffled in with a tray of steaming tea and biscuits. She was well past 60 and one of two women allowed in the monastery to cook breakfasts for the monks. Kensar thanked Naami, as he set the peonies on the low table beside the tea tray and poured two cups of tea.

The scent of jasmine filled Shandar’s nostrils, as he took the first sip of tea. At that moment, Kensar inquired, “Shandar, did you meditate last evening?” Shandar choked then coughed helplessly, his eyes filling with tears. It was a full minute before he could speak. Wiping the tears with a corner of his shawl, he said, “Kensar-ji, I think you may already know.” The two monks locked eyes. A sudden burst of laughter erupted. Down the hallway where Naami was entering the stairwell, she exclaimed: “Today is a golden day!” feeling the smooth wooden railing beneath her hand.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (JUNE 7-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

---

Installment #13

Arku’s hands were pressed palms together level with his heart in the Namaste greeting. At the monastery’s entrance he smiled warmly and welcomed them both home. Joy danced in Arku’s eyes as he hugged Shandar. Stepping back, he said, “Kensar-ji, there is a warm bath ready for you”. The sage expressed his gratitude and took a sleepy Kula from his pack. Arku smiled as the gray, furry mass was passed to Shandar. Shandar wished the sage goodnight and watched the two monks bantering playfully, as they walked down the long central corridor. Shandar marveled that Arku knew the exact time of their arrival.

To get to his room Shandar walked passed the chanting hall. The great hall vibrated with the voices of more than 50 monks. With Kula he couldn’t join them for evening chanting and besides, he was feeling exhausted. Still, he discreetly stepped inside for a moment, close to the wall. He kneeled on the polished wooden floor, closing his eyes. Shandar breathed deeply, filling his lungs with the scent from lilies on the huge alter and the palpable energy of devotion. The deep, melodic sound washed over him. He slipped into meditation.

Shandar came out of meditation having seen an inner vision of two women. One was Goddess Lakshmi; the other, the woman of his dreams. Both women were seductively dancing before him. When he realized what he was seeing, right here in the great hall, he was hardly able to hold back a loud shout. However, Kula was not. Sensing his sudden turmoil she let out an incredibly loud “Meeeooow”. With that, his grasp on her tightened and Shandar rose quickly to his feet. He exited the room, whisking both him and the cat through the corridor, into his room before any further disruption occurred. He let her down by a bowl of milk. Before collapsing on his bed, Shandar blessed Arku for also anticipating little Kula.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (JUNE 1-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved

---

Installment #12

Kula, the ferocious little house cat, was already growing on Shandar. She slept in Kensar’s backpack on the trek home to the monastery. Shandar knew it was the sage’s loving energy that soothed her.

Along the way they stopped at two villages. Shandar was eager to follow up with three of his patients. The third visit was to an elderly villager, Yasmina. Shandar was concerned that it would take months to regain her strength. She was well over 80. Her daughter-in-law had tried her best but had treated Yasmina’s nasty bacterial dysentery without knowing its source. Finally they sent for Shandar when she became severely dehydrated and disoriented in her mind.

As the monks climbed the stairs, they could see through the open door. Shandar gasped. The elderly woman was cooking the family’s evening meal! She’d heard their footsteps and welcomed the two monks with her broad, nearly toothless grin and some hot, spiced goat milk. Shandar noticed how clean and tidy the room was, while both monks laughed at the story of her great-grandson learning to swim. She was not offended when they declined the meal, preferring to navigate the mountain path by daylight.

As they left the village, Shandar mused, “No one suffered by my missed visit. It’s like time stood still. Time even healed Yasmina.” Kensar replied, “There are no accidents” and inwardly thought, “Yasmina’s recovery will help Shandar’s inner healing.” The sage was deeply satisfied. Again and again he’d seen how guilt cannot heal; it only delays one’s healing. He smiled in gratitude at the glowing sun, ready to slip below the horizon between two mountain ranges. “How much is Shandar ready to know?” the master asked himself, as the sound of chanting welcomed them home.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (MAY 25-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

---

Installment #11

There was still time to return to the monastery by daylight. The monks finished a small meal of chia seeds in yoghurt. Chia was a power food favored by the Himalayan people. Kensar added powdered maca root to their water flasks for endurance on their trek home.

Shandar felt lighter after sharing his secret with the sage. Now he pondered how little Kula would respond to being wakened from her sleep under a small shrub. He was about to find out when Kensar said, “Shandar, do you recognize anything about the woman in your dreams?” Shandar thought. He replied, “Two years ago I assisted with wedding preparations for the daughter of one of my patients. I installed a new statue of the Goddess several days before the wedding.” Shandar didn’t need to tell the sage that he had followed the elaborate ceremony with precision. He looked at Kensar as he said, “During the final mantras I put sandalwood oil on her forehead. As the energy in the statue became alive, I was blinded by a ray of light coming from her eyes.”

Kensar asked, “What did you do?” Shandar said, “I sat on the ground at her feet. I took it as a good sign and meditated on the light for some time. Her presence was strong in my meditation. Later when I opened my eyes, my sight had returned.”

Kensar said softly, “Ah, Goddess Lakshmi. She has overseen weddings since the beginning of time. Her blessings bestow every kind of wealth but only when she is lovingly invoked. Spiritual wealth is the best kind. What use are money and sheep if wisdom is lacking?” Without her blessings, even happiness is impossible. Smiling, the master said, “Shandar, your installation ceremony was done very well.”

Shandar appreciated the sage’s compliment. But he was an intellectual and his mind was always full of thoughts. It was hard to receive Kensar’s words for more than a moment. Already, Shandar was thinking, “How does this help my dilemma? What can I do about my lust?”

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (MAY 17-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

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Installment #10

Shandar had almost forgotten that someone was listening to him speak. He released all his secret thoughts; the lust that was consuming him; the fear that he would meet this dream woman in real life; and the dread that he might abandon his vow of celibacy. Kensar felt the weight of Shandar’s thoughts, as he listened. Still, he was proud of his student’s decision to follow dharma, right action and speak the truth.

Just as Shandar sighed heavily, little Kula jumped over his lap in pursuit of an orange and purple butterfly. The leaping cat startled Shandar and he began laughing. Thankfully, the butterfly was out of her reach. Kula gave up the chase. She rubbed against Shandar’s outstretched arm. Lifting her pretty face, Kula began purring, inviting him to scratch her throat.

Kensar was pleased to hear Shandar laughing. “Kula will be a handful”, he thought, “but Shandar needs her now”. After a quiet pause, Shandar respectfully asked the sage, “Kensar-ji, how did you find me?” The sage’s eyes were soft and shining. He answered, “Did you think I would abandon you at such a time? Shandar, love is the most powerful force in the universe, as you have experienced many times. It can accomplish anything!”

Shandar had the distinct sensation that Kensar was about to reveal something very important when Kula suddenly bit his hand. She jumped up and ran several feet. There she stopped, half turned toward Shandar and hissed. Both monks howled with laughter.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

Psychological Effects Of Stress

What can you do right now to reduce the psychological effects of stress and enhance your feelings of well-being?

Meditation Types

Try Spontaneous Meditation, one of the meditation types that help you experience peace of mind and tangible benefits in the shortest amount of time.

Techniques How To Meditate

Release stress, calm your mind, and find your purpose in life with 3 more techniques how to meditate – even if you didn’t meditate till now!

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (MAY 12-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

---

Installment #9

There was a tangible energy in the air. Kensar recognized it as dharma, the universal energy of right action. It always caused the sage’s body to shiver with ripples of electric energy. The sage relished it now, certain that Shandar would follow the path of right action and tell the truth about what had occurred. Kensar knew Shandar was proud but he anticipated that Shandar’s determination on his spiritual journey was far stronger than his pride.

Kensar’s love made it easier for Shandar. Still, his body visibly trembled as he began to speak. Embarrassment and shame distorted his face. He began, “For months, I’ve dreamed about … a beautiful woman.” He hesitated. Shandar took his vow of celibacy seriously.

The sage nodded but Shandar couldn’t see his eyes. “Continue” was all he said. Shandar sensed the presence of a positive force. He said, “I haven’t met her, it’s only a dream.” He was desperate for his teacher to believe this. “But, she’s so real. I’m afraid that my feelings…” Shandar was losing his courage. He searched Kensar’s face for any harshness as he continued.

“In the dreams she dances for me. Her beauty excites me. I don’t understand it… why do I desire a woman I’ve never even met?!” Shandar had spoken the terrible truth to his teacher, the head monk. This was the one desire that could change his destiny -- forever.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

Relaxation Video Collection

Watch a relaxation video when you feel frustrated or stressed out… Share this collection with a friend who is worried or depressed…

Listen Guided Meditation - Meditation Escape Store

Listen guided meditation while simply sitting or laying comfortably, with your eyes closed. You’ll be completely relaxed and stress-free.

Free Guided Relaxation Teleclasses

Meditation Escape offers free guided relaxation Teleclasses where you learn practical and lasting tools to release your stress. Register here now!

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (MAY 3-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

---

Installment #8

Surrendering to his fear, Shandar walked back and sat on the grass beside Kensar. In a quiet voice, the sage asked, “What happened to you? We were worried.” Shandar knew this was his teacher’s way of allowing him to unburden his soul.

Shandar told Kensar everything; how he misdiagnosed Rakki; how he’d given the wrong medicines; and how, because of her age, she had died. There was silence as both monks inwardly offered blessings for the old woman’s successful passing.

Kensar again broke the silence. “What else were you thinking about when you made your diagnosis?” At first, Shandar thought he hadn’t explained well enough. But something made him pause...

The master’s question sunk in and a light went on in Shandar’s head. This was the moment he had feared; the moment he had tried to deny. If he lied to Kensar now, he would never regain his serenity. If he were truly to forgive himself, he must speak the truth. It was now or never.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

Four new, free meditations now available

I'm delighted to bring you four new guided meditations, outlined below; and three new articles. These are all FREE for you. Let them help you discover the real you, as you connect with your inner serenity.

I've been thinking of a few ways to add value to your time here. There are over 12 additions coming: videos, audios and an e-book. They will be here this month.

NEW MEDITATIONS

1. Learn how to deeply relax your body with step by step instructions. (Home Page)

2. Use Creative Visualization to change some part of your life that you want to be different. (Stress Relief page)

3. An outdoor meditation focus technique (Q & A page, by the candle flame.)

4. An outdoor meditation healing technique (Grounding Meditation page)

THREE NEW ARTICLES

These will be available this month.

1. Meditation Types

2. Psychological Effects of Stress

3. Techniques, How to Meditate

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (Story)

If you get Blog notifications you probably noticed Shandar was missing during much of April. This was due to all the additions.

Installment #7 is now available.

Love,

Sukala

PS - Three new articles are going to be added every month.

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (APR 26-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.)

Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

---

(Due to website additions, April's installments were delayed. We continue now with #7)

Installment #7

The small grey cat had found a patch of sand in the grass. She rolled back and forth, paws in the air, vigorously rubbing her body in the sand. She was obviously pleased with herself for escaping the confines of the backpack.

Kensar laid back, hands cupping his head, watching Shandar who had walked to the edge of the lake. He was lost in thought. Judging by the sun it was close to noon. Shandar tried to recollect how many days he’d been gone? He was sure he had missed at least three appointments. Fortunately those patients lived with their families. He routinely left an extra week’s supply of herbs and tinctures with his patients. In the mountains the weather often changed hour to hour.

In his mind, Shandar was miles away when Kensar cleared his throat. Hearing the familiar sound, Shandar returned to the here and now. The sound signaled the sage’s intention to speak. Shandar’s stomach began fluttering nervously.

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

Balancing Stress Through Guided Relaxation

Guided relaxation and creative visualization are key to balancing stress; they keep you calm, focused, highly creative, in tune with yourself.

Organizing Clutter Helps Soothe Your Stress

Organizing clutter helps you heal long-standing health challenges or personal problem… Start with some simple changes, even one hour per week!

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety Stress

Physical symptoms of anxiety stress will occur when you move, as moving is one of the most stressful activites.

Stress Relief Guided Meditation FAQ

What is stress relief guided meditation? How can you find time to meditate with a busy lifestyle? What changes do you notice? Get your answers here!

Meditation Practice Tools

Use these meditation practice tools for best relaxation results and adjust them to serve your own unique needs and preferences.

How Stress Affects Health

Women’s health: how stress affects health, stress hormones, and how to reduce stress in 5 minutes a day.

Stress Reducer Tools and Techniques E-zine

Receive a FREE E-book, stress reducer tools, quick relaxation tips, and guided meditation downloads when you subscribe to our free ezine, Stress Solutions.

Grounding Meditation

How do you keep a balance between what you experience inside yourself and what you must manage outside of yourself with grounding meditation?

Fun Ways To Relieve Stress

In my relaxation classes women frequently ask for fun ways to relieve stress. Take a look which three are the most popular with stressed out women!

Meditation Home Study

Find out the essential tools for your meditation home study or practice to experiment with.

Meditation & Focused Relaxation Contribute to Success

If focused relaxation doesn’t come naturally for you, meditation & creative visualization help you release the stress that hinders your success.

Meditation And Stress Relief

How many times when anxious, depressed, or simply upset have you used meditation and stress relief for a quick release of these negative feelings?

Why Do People Meditate - Benefits of Meditation

Why do people meditate? Is meditation for me? Can everyday, normal people meditate? Can I do it at home? Get your answers here.

Visualization Script For Relaxation

Your visualization script for relaxation changes your inner state from anxious or scattered, to peaceful, serene and centered.

3 More Meditation Practice Tools

More meditation practice tools for best relaxation and stress relief results.

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (APR 6-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the next installment right here on my blog ...(To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.) Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

----

Installment #6

Shandar’s beloved teacher Kensar stood before him. Their eyes met and a wave of affection surged between them. Shandar was not thinking about how Kensar appeared so suddenly or the great cat’s disappearance. He watched attentively, as his teacher unfolded a straw mat from a bulky roll on his back and sat beside his student. In their customary manner, no words were spoken.

Kensar’s inner youthfulness and ancient wisdom inspired the monks to do what often seemed impossible. Shandar had studied with Kensar for over 30 years. The elderly head monk was not family, yet Shandar felt the same love for his teacher that he had felt for his mother and grandmother. And there was nothing he could hide from the sage.

He was deeply relieved to see his teacher. He was also apprehensive. What would Kensar think of him when he knew the circumstances that had brought him here? Shandar didn’t want to speak of it just yet. Thankfully, his teacher enjoyed silence!

The silence was broken as Kensar started to laugh. Something behind him made growling noises. “Oh yes, I have a gift for you, Shandar”. With a graceful motion he brought his roll to the ground. Opening the lid, a hissing grey cat shot out. Shandar gasped … another cat!

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

Online Guided Meditation Audios

Experience deep relaxation and healing energy with 5 min. online guided meditation audios. Listen on your computer or even on your iPod!

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (Mar 28-08)

Greetings!

We are journeying with Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me each weekend for the current installment right here on my blog ... you’ll only need a minute or two. (To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.) Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

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Installment #5

Despite the roughness of its tongue, Shandar recognized the creature’s gentleness. Ever so slowly, Shandar raised his body just enough to rest on one elbow. Unbelievably, he was gazing directly into green, brilliant eyes. The snow leopard began purring. Shandar was truly relieved by this friendly sound. He would not be the cat’s dinner after all.

Thoughts began to bubble in Shandar’s mind. He wondered what miracle had brought him to meet this powerful creature? Why did the snow leopard help him? And most importantly, what should his next move be?

Before any decision could be made, the great cat lowered his handsome, majestic head. Instinctively, Shandar too lowered his head and closed his eyes. Though he could not say why, he trusted the cat. Incredibly, their two foreheads touched. Within himself, Shandar could still see the snow leopard as if his eyes were still open. And then with his inner vision, he was the cat’s form completely disappear.

Shandar opened his eyes. It was true. The great cat really was gone. How very strange this was. Shandar turned, looking in each direction. The snow leopard had simply vanished. In its place was a most surprising guest, one who brought a smile to Shandar’s face and heart.

To be continued ...

Join me next week for a surprising installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one person's spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (Mar 21-08)

Greetings!

We are sharing the life of Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me weekends for the new installment, 1-2 minutes of reading, right here on my blog ... (To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.) Enjoy!

The following is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

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Installment #4

One effect of the poison was that Shandar's fear of death was gradually leaving him. His mind was becoming both euphoric and observant. He was in awe... the same poison that had promised a certain death had instead become a catalyst for amazing delight. What a marvel of nature that in a matter of hours, Shandar had gone down the rabbit hole, back up and beyond, to touch heavenly bliss!

Insights came to Shandar's mind. He suddenly knew beyond any doubt it is ridiculous to waste one’s breath complaining, fault finding, or gossiping. As his teacher often said, every day is a gift to be enjoyed.

Shandar lay still because his body continued to seem frozen from the toxin. He was sure that he was even still alive because of his meditation practice and his teacher’s support. It was said, meditation protects the meditation student. It connects the student to the One, the same power that created the universe. Shandar believed the poisonous plant had revealed its blessing rather than its curse because of his frequent connection to the One, sparing his life now.

The creature had licked Shandar’s head for what seemed an eternity. This motion brought a flow of warmth to his entire body. Even his eyes regained their focus. As the creature now licked Shandar’s forehead, Shandar could see the chest and legs of the creature whose large, rough tongue was restoring the life to his limbs. With a jolt to his entire being, he saw it was a very large snow leopard!

To be continued ...

Join me each weekend for an exciting new installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man’s spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,

Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (Mar 7-08)

Greetings!

We are getting to know Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me weekends for the next installment right here on my blog ... you’ll only need a minute or two to catch up. (To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.) Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.----

Installment #3

Shandar heard a sound; scratch, scratch, scratch, like sandpaper on wood. There was a familiar scent like wet hair. He could not make out what the source of the sound was, his eyes could not focus. Again, scratch, scratch ... something very rough was licking his head. Shandar only knew it was not human. Furthermore, he was sure there were no other humans in the forest who could help him.

Since the passing of his family years ago in a mountain avalanche, Shandar had never seen another person when he came here to refresh his spirit. Many times he had come upon sheep grazing. On several occasions he had seen a snow leopard across the lake. The monks all believed it was a blessing to see this shy, noble creature.

Shandar's eyes and body remained paralyzed from the toxin. But his mind was clear as the waters of the lake. Yet he had never felt so completely helpless.

To be continued ...

Join me next weekend for another surprising installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one person's spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT (Feb 29-08)

Greetings!

We are getting to know Shandar, a healing monk of the exotic Himalayas. Join me weekends for the next installment right here on my blog ... you’ll only need a minute or two to catch up. (To be automatically notified go to the home page of Meditationescape.com and scroll down the left to the orange lettering “RSS”. Click and follow the 30-second directions.) Enjoy!

The story of Shandar is protected by Copyright. All rights are reserved.

----

Installment #2

Shandar’s sorrow brought him to the shelter of the forest where he grew up. He collapsed by the lake’s edge with eyes opened wide. The poison from the scratch was now chilling his body. It numbed his limbs and caused his eyes to stare, like they were frozen.

Shandar’s mind was becoming lighter and lighter. All of his remorseful thoughts surrendered to the shock of the poison. Still, he knew death was likely. His teacher told a story years ago of mountain tribes who powdered the thorns of this deadly bush. They swallowed the powder to induce altered states of consciousness. Occasionally, galkas, strange people who rejected their families and villages, used the thorns to ease the pain of their isolation. Having no teacher to guide them, their inexperience with the bush often ended in death.

Now Shandar inhaled the soft, blue-green light from the placid lake. He felt safe and serene here. His mother and grandmother brought him here often when he was a boy. At this sacred lake they had bathed and silently meditated. They told Shandar stories of sages who passed through their villages, touching many lives with their mystical powers.

Shandar felt at home in this sanctuary. Countless times, he remembered, his mother and grandmother had couraged him to be a monk and healer. Here with them he learned all life is worthy of respect. He learned that everything is alive, even rocks. Now, in his heart, Shandar began to pray to every single thing in the forest to share its life force with him. He wanted desperately to live.

To be continued ...

Join me next weekend for another exciting installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one person's spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,Sukala

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT

Greetings!

Join me in the spiritual journey and inspirational misadventures of Shandar, a healing monk. The story takes place in the Himalayas. Enjoy weekend installments right here on my blog. You’ll only need a minute. (To be automatically notified please see the directions up above.) Enjoy!

Copyrighted material follows. All rights are reserved.

----

Installment #1

Shandar left Rakki’s hut in stunned silence, his heart shattered by the truth that his mistaken diagnosis and the wrong treatment had cost Rakki her life. Rakki was in his care for only one week. Her symptoms were unusual. Why was he so quick to diagnose her illness?

Shandar knew the truth and that added to his torment. He also knew a younger patient might have survived the wrong herbs. But Rakki was believed to be over 100. No one knew her age since there was no record of her birth date. In the week since Shandar had left instructions and medicines with her great granddaughter, Rakki had quickly deteriorated.

Desperately uttering prayers under his breath, willing to give his own life to bring her back, Shandar ran from this quiet, peaceful village. He expected at any moment to be chased down by Rakki’s family, shouting “murderer”. But they had remained calmly with the old woman’s body. No one harassed him, not even a village dog.

His heart filled with tears, Shandar stumbled onto the mountain path. How could he, both a monk and a healer, take a life? He was filled with self-loathing as a long, sharp thorn of a poisonous bush tore his sleeve. It grazed his wrist and drew blood. Shandar did not feel the sting of the poisonous thorn, neither did he see the blood soaking into his sleeve.

To be continued ...

Join me next weekend for a surprising installment of:

SHANDAR AND THE SEARCH FOR THE INNER LIGHT.

May you receive inspiration from this story of one man's spiritual quest and the guidance that comes unfailingly to an open heart and mind.

Love,Sukala

SEEING BEAUTY (Part 2)

By Sister Nancy Hurren

For the Introduction by Sukala, see Part I. Now for your upliftment, Nancy continues:

Do we stop long enough and become silent enough to hear the longings that stir deep within our own hearts? Do we recognize the loving embrace of God that is always near, always seeking to bring us to the fulfillment of our human lives?

Even Jesus needed to take time to be still with God. In the gospels He makes a regular practice of withdrawing to a lonely place to pray. He chooses to do this despite the hectic pace of His ministry. He recognizes His need to be in touch with the Beauty and the Purpose and the Love that is at the depths of His reality and of the reality that is our world. And us? Surely we can do the same!

To go away by ourselves to be with God is not an exercise of self-indulgent escapism but rather a highly beneficial practice of self-care. “But I haven’t time”, we protest. “There’s too much to do, projects to be completed, deadlines to meet. Maybe later, when things are under control ...”

The good news – or perhaps the bad news – is this: for most of us things will never be under control. (And possibly God doesn’t care very much about this particular human obsession.) Moreover, everything will be waiting for us right where we left it when we come back but hopefully we will return with a peace of heart, a wideness of vision and a patience born of knowing we are loved.

For Jesus, quiet communion with the Father was an urgent need when life’s demands were most pressing. It is also a need for us so that we might better see the deeper reality in which we live. Then, as John O’Donohue suggests, it is good to share our insights with an “anam cara”, a “soul friend”, one whose wisdom we trust and who out of their own life experience can walk with us in our unique quest for meaning and life, in our quest to glimpse the face of God within and among us and know God’s loving embrace.

End of Part 2

(This article was reproduced with permission from the Nelson Daily News in BC Canada)

SEEING BEAUTY (Part I)

By Sister Nancy Hurren (Part I)

Introduction by Sukala

When I met Nancy by phone it was to ask if I may put her lovely article on my website. In our conversation I shared with her one of the visions I have had of Jesus. I wanted Nancy to know that while I may not be traditional in my practice of Christianity, Jesus has a permanent, blissful home in my heart. Regardless of your spiritual path, I believe you will find Nancy’s article inspiring, especially if you still find it difficult to make time for yourself to nurture your spirit.

Here is Part I!

On January 3, 2008 the world lost an elegant and faith-filled voice. The Irish writer and poet, John O’Donohue, died peacefully in his sleep. John was only 53, but had a wisdom and depth coming from a lifetime of contemplative reflection in the midst of the beauty of the Conamara landscape in which he lived. His books, Anam Cara, Eternal Echoes, and Beauty, the Invisible Embrace, reveal the depths of his own spiritual journey. His insights into friendship, the deep longings of the human heart, and the true sources of compassion, serenity and hope have brought consolation and courage to many readers about the globe. It is the journey into the heart of God that motivates his writing and stirs the embers of our own deeper longings.

In the closing passages of his book, Beauty, he remarks that “to participate in beauty is to come into the presence of the Holy. It is we who exile ourselves from God...Sometimes the urgency of our hunger blinds us to the fact that we are already at the feast. To accept this can change everything: we are always home, never exiled.

“Although our minds constantly insist on seeing walls of separation, in reality most of the walls are mere veils. In every moment, everywhere, we are not even inches away from the divine presence...at the heart of spirituality is the awakening of real presence...When you are truly present, you are there as you are: image and pretension are left aside. Perhaps the secret of spiritual integrity has to do with an act of acceptance, namely a recognition that you are already within the divine embrace.” (Beauty, p. 226-227)

These are insights from his own journey, his own quest for God, a quest now fulfilled in the embrace of the One who is eternal Beauty.

What of our journey? Do we stop to gaze at the beauty around us, take time to be in awe? Do we recognize the gift that is unfolding in our lives, even in the more difficult moments, and give thanks?

End of Part I. The inspiring conclusion of Part 2 is on the next Blog!

(This article was reproduced with permission from the Nelson Daily News in BC Canada)

Peace and Stress, the Holidays are Here

Does the holiday season trigger stress for you? Stress is weaved right into our unselfish desires for peace and love.

CAUSES OF HOLIDAY STRESS

Stress is higher in December through February than any other months of the year. Reason:

#1 Obligation, pleasing others. It’s easy to spot this in other people, tough to see it in ourselves. Was your parent a pleaser? You may be too.

#2 Worry... incomplete commitments. This can lead ‘zoning out’ through over-indulging the senses, a way to avoid pain/responsibility.

#3 Failure... the belief you have failed or that someone failed you.

CHECK INSIDE... TWICE WHEN YOU SAY ‘YES’

Example of #1: One year at Christmas, newly married, I was preparing to attend my husband’s parents’ 50th anniversary dinner. One on one, I loved his big family and his parents. The challenge came when they were altogether. I felt no heart in their discussions. At that time, I found it hard to be 'superficial' with people...now I find cocktail talk can be fun; but back then, forget it.

I was combing my hair when I started to feel a deep sadness. I began crying. Each time I stopped, blew my nose and pictured the party, tears would start again. I realized I did not want to go. This was a bit of a shock. I wondered how my husband would respond. He was surprised but saw I’d made my decision to respect my strong need. I stayed home, he went and later said the party was fun but his family found it odd that I didn’t come. So what? Really, I mean, we were both happy for having honored our needs.

BEST-SELLER AUTHOR SAYS, SAY ‘NO’

That year, I learned I do not have to do anything out of obligation... and true, I’m not perfect at it yet but that event was a benchmark. I invite you right now to watch and listen to any niggling inner signs. How does your body feel? What are your emotions saying? Ask yourself the real reason if you’re saying ‘Yes’ to something your body wants to say ‘No’ to.

Women have great difficulty saying ‘No’. Author Elizabeth Gilbert (best seller: Eat, Pray, Love) was on Oprah in December. She learned to build a "wall of no’s" around her. Her journey, written in that book, was about learning to say no, discovering how to take care of herself and finally, finding balance. And Liz learned to meditate, following the same meditation path and master I have been with for most of my life.

STRESS MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES

Make it easy to meditate with the 5-minute Guided Nature Meditations or The Zen of Stress audio in the Store.. Along with your fun activities over the holidays these will give you inner balance and refresh you for the new year, a new job, a new relationship, and your new goals.

A peaceful, balanced, happy you in 2008. And remember:

Just say ‘NO’. You can do it!!

Love, Sukala

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