Happy Winter!

The winter solstice is one of my favorite days of the year, and each year I try to make a special acknowledgement of this day. To celebrate this year, I participated in Namaspa's Winter Solstice 108 Sun Salutation practice. The class cost $20, and all proceeds went to the Bethlehem Inn, a shelter for homeless men, women and families in Central Oregon. Last night, the yogis at Namaspa raised $450 for Bethlehem Inn! Yay!

Why the number 108? 108 has significant meaning across many religions/cultures. For instance, there are 108 beads on a mala (prayer necklace used by Hindus and Buddhists). In mathematics, 1 to the first power = 1, 2 squared = 4, and 3 cubed = 27. 1 x 4 x 27 = 108. The diameter of the Sun is 108 times the diameter of the Earth. The distance from the Sun to the Earth is 108 times the diameter of the Sun. The average distance of the Moon from the Earth is 108 times the diameter of the Moon. Fascinating! Here is a link to learn more about the meaning of 108 if you're interested: http://swamij.com/108.htm

So what does 108 sun salutations entail? Well, the class formed in a circle, all facing inward, like the shape of the sun. We did four sets of 27 sun salutations, with a short break in between each set to hydrate or rest. Each set was dedicated to a specific intention, so that we made each movement, each breath in and out, with that intention in mind. Powerful, huh?! The first set was dedicated to the individual, each of us personally. The second set was dedicated to family and close friends, the third to the earth, the fourth to the Universe/God.

Before each set, the instructor read a poem or prayer and talked about the general subject of that set's dedication, and then we went around the room and everyone said, "My name is ______, and I dedicate this round to ______." The dedications included everything from love, healing, forgiveness, and patience, to the children at the Bethlehem Inn, appreciation for our natural resources, and wisdom for leaders of nations at war. Then we began, from a standing position. For those who don't know what a sun salutation is: from standing position, we bend forward, then straighten our backs (while still bending), then step back into a plank, low pushup, upward facing dog, downward facing dog, two deep breaths, step forward, straighten backs, bend forward, then stand up and lift arms and face to the sky. Each movement was made to the rhythm of inhale and exhale. It was amazing! We did the final set with the lights out and the only sound was that of a large group of people breathing in an out rhythmically, in sync. Check out Namaspa's Facebook page, there's a short video that will give you an idea! 

Of course I can't convey the depth of energy that I felt at this class. However, I can say that it was a fantastic night with friends, and I was honored to share this powerful experience with such an incredibly inspiring community of people.