The I Ching points out that I, oh by the way I use several interpretations of the book of changes, yes I have a poor habit of falling in love with /fill in the blank/. Sometimes it is women. It has been computer games. It can even be with sports – I used to be very fond of watching college football and then more recently, EPL soccer. So I have a tendency to fall into whatever I am into at the moment.
My favorite interpretation of the I Ching is still Julie Henderson’s. She writes for meditation practitioners, somatic therapists, bodyworkers and psychotherapists. Therefore she does not take life too seriously. Her background with Zapchen somatics makes it so she adds some humor and playfulness to this ancient text.
In Julie’s interpretation, she says “you have a habit of going overboard with enthusiasm and joy.” (paraphrased) Especially with regard to what you (I) desire. It is okay to enjoy what is offered to me. In fact, that is most healthy – to be in my wholesome pleasure in the moment. But my issue is longing for more and more, even after the apparent source of pleasure is gone. And this is where I really appreciate this interpretation. Bcause she mentions that I must realize that I am actually the ultimate source of any pleasure. My karma determines my perception. And I have the power and the tools to change my karma. Therefore I can and should change my perception. She even goes so far as to mention that with the tools and skills of a practicing yogi and bodyworker, I have the ability to rest in alignment right now. And therefore I have the ability to rest in equanimity now, without “doing” much to attain such a state of balance. All it requires is to be aware in each moment of my tendencies and of my present state of embodiment.
So what is the take home message here? I have the skills to rest in equanimity right now. I just have to be aware of my tendency to become attached to objects of desire. Then, using breath work and somatic exercises I can locate areas in my body that are contracted and trying to force “their way.” Then I can dissolve that contraction and find an easy balanced alignment.
Plus she goes on to mention that perhaps I am attached to a feeling or sensation of joy. You might wonder what is wrong with this? Well, she says that there might be a primary state which is even beyond this state of joy. I for one do not know this state, but I guess she might be referring to some form of a natural state, where I have heard yogis and yoginis can rest in clear light mind, free from attachment and aversion. But I’m just guessing. I could be way off. 🙂
So, I embark on an ever mindful journey of discovering alignment. Getting blown off a little, then adjusting accordingly. And rediscovering alignment with new information in mind. What a great adventure this can be!
Thank you for reading my random thoughts and have a great day!
Meditation Informs Healing Facilitation 