Years ago, I read an article by a teacher of the Vedic sciences, regarding the cultivation of Prana.
When considering what to share from my practice this month, the idea of pace came to mind as a relevant theme.
As I tried to write about it, it became overly complex. So I am going back to basics and simply sharing some personal thoughts that I hope are useful for you.
Years ago, I read an article by the excellent teacher of the Vedic sciences, Robert Svoboda, regarding the cultivation of Prana. Prana is the Sanskrit term for subtle energy, similar to the Chinese term Chi.
The article had a wonderful effect on me during an especially difficult period of life. I felt stuck and thwarted in many ways then, and was undoubtedly being hard on myself. Why was I so slow? Why did I have no energy? These were constant, semi-conscious questions I circulated in my mind.
I share with you the first paragraph of this article and a few reflections about how it helped me and informs me to this day.
Whoever you may be, and wherever you may live, you live your life well when you live it at the right rate. Plow your way through life and life will wear you out; poke your way along and your life will grind to a halt. Find a pace that suits you, though, and amble along it accordingly, and your world will spontaneously level a path for you.
The article goes into some depth about yogic matters that I jive with, but what struck me right away was the possibility that slow was my pace. That being upset about my pace was perhaps the drain of energy. That maybe it was time to surrender to a deeper understanding of my rhythm, and to life’s rhythm for me.
This insight paradoxically allowed me to slow down more, to drop down deeper, to rest and rejuvenate, to ask different questions, to hear from my heart, and to follow my heart.
In this period since, about 5 years now, I understand my pace more and I do my daily best to honor it and amble along accordingly. I don’t expect the world to spontaneously level my path but I do seem to understand more what is meant by such a statement.
Our pace connects us to our heart. Our heart emanates our unique emotional and spiritual longing. This is what influences the course of our path.
May you know and honor your pace. May your heart illuminate your path.
May our practice and our healing be of benefit to the whole world.
Here is a link to the entire article for those that are inspired: Prana
Natasha Korshak is a long-time teacher and trainer of yoga, meditation, mindfulness and MBSR, and has been working in the field of integrative health and wellness her entire professional career. She is a graduate of the Interfaith Theological Seminary and an ordained Interfaith Minister specializing in contemplative practice, grief processing, and spiritual direction. Her study and training of mind/body/spirit methods is extensive and she has learned from many of the pioneers in their discipline. As the founder and director of the Sol Center she is well regarded for her depth, warmth, authenticity, and the smile in her voice.
