Today is reflection day. No Karma Yoga (other than supper dishes), no morning asana class, no personal asana practice (I need to give my body a day off). So, a pretty open day.
I let myself sort of sleep in this morning. I still got up at 6 to meditate, but then I went back to bed for an extra hour before breakfast. It seems like such a treat. It's funny how I don't do that at home.
Since I have the extra time today, I decided to finish my first run through of the religion section of the library. I scanned books on Tibetan Buddhism, Hinduism, Sufism, Bahai, Taoism, Sikhism and Shamanism. Phew! Unfortunately, I'm still left with a lot on my "to explore more" list: 4 kinds of Buddhism (Zen, Tibetan, Pure Land, Theravada), Hinduism, Taoism, Sikhism and Shamanism.
Now I think I'll explore some of the comparative religion books hoping to weed out a few more (and maybe do some internet research). No rush, but it would be nice to pick a few to focus on and do some more in-depth research.
In addition to my religion research, I'm also going to reflect today on how to take some of the simple life here home. I'm good with the practices (meditation, asanas) at home, but I find I leave behind some of the simple aspects of this place. Meals in silence (not reading), not watching TV, working mindfully. So I'm going to think about how I bring some of those things home.
I think you have a point about taking aspects of the ashram and adding it to your daily life. We often find ourselves rushing through dinner or lunch. Hmmm...shall I try to eat dinner in utter silence tonight to see how that might feel? How did it feel for you to sit in silence? Did you feel a bit awkward? I presented a non-talking practice with my partner over the weekend (which of course did not happen :-) but we talked about how it must be hard especially if you like talking to others or even yourself. Anyways, hope your day is good there!
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