|
As we begin
this holiday season it’s important to remember the “meaning of the season” and
not get caught up in all the of hype and commercialism. Our first celebration
this month is that of Hanukkah the “Miracle of Lights”. The word Hanukkah means
rededication. Rededication on behalf of the Hebrew people to their God and
their temple.
Thousands
of years ago Hebrew were forced out of Jerusalem by the King of Syria and
required to worship their Greek Gods and Goddesses. Some followed the laws and
others rebelled and fought for religious freedom.
After a
number of years the Hebrew people over came their opposition and returned home.
They went back to their homeland and rededicated themselves back to their
religion. When they went into the temple they wanted to light the “mer tamid”
(the candle of eternal light), but found out that they only had enough oil to
last one night. The leaders sent their best horsemen to the next village to get
more oil. It was an eight day round trip. Miraculously when the men returned
the light was still shining. One night’s oil had lasted the entire eight days.
The story
of Hanukkah is a beautiful story about dedication, light (symbolically and
literally), coming home, family and friends, and the possibilities of miracles.
These are the same themes reminiscent in the story of Christmas, the Winter
Solstice, Kwanzaa and our yoga practice.
Very often
an instructor will encourage you to dedicate your practice to someone or
something bigger then yourself. We talk about light in many forms, as
knowledge, illumination, inspiration and spiritual awareness,. Home is our
foundation and restful place (a.k.a. downdog or child’s pose). Devotion to our
family and friends always plays a part in our drive to better ourselves and
achieve. Finally the possibility
of miracles is always inspiring. We realize that a miracle is nothing more then
a shift in our perception or reality.
So maybe as
we enjoy our personal celebrations this month we can also acknowledge the
commonality of other people’s beliefs. Our yoga practice encourages unitiy,
awareness and peace. Twis the season to...connect, enjoy and believe!
Happy
Holidays
|