Your Best Self- TURNING THE TIDE, (The Journey of Releasing)

Most of our time is spent struggling with whatever comes to us. We want to fix it, change it, make it suit us. And as we enter into battle with life, not only is our energy used up, but we feel more and more helpless, unable to win. In this podcast, we see that Wanting To Change It, is simply a painful feeling. And we can let it go. As we begin to do this, with whatever arises in life, not only do things change by themselves, but our strength, power and feelings of ease return naturally.

The ways in which we handle our feelings, do not work. Usually, we suppress, repress, express or deny them. Whether we try to hide away or not, our feelings simmer within and find their own way to be expressed. Illness, upset and endless drama are the result. But there is a new and wonderful way to be with our feelings, a way that brings ease of mind, courage, and health. Like surfers who can ride even huge waves, we do not get knocked down, or ploughed under. This episode begins our exploration of the world of feelings and how we live it. 

We are not upset by what happens, but by our own reactions to it. So many are in the grip of fear and panic regarding the virus going around. We do not yet see, though, that the panic itself is a more dangerous virus, that must be dissolved immediately. The tide can be turned. We can learn to break free from feelings that have taken us over. The nature of feelings are to come and go. It is us that are holding on tight. This series of podcasts will teach the precious process of dissolving painful feelings, letting go, and returning to our natural balance and ability to handle everything.

It is often hard to know what to do when we are called to help those suffering. Whether it is a physical illness or emotional distress, we want to help them feel better. This podcast offers a radically different way to feel better. We learn how to become fully present for another, to be real, and offer a space for others to drop their masks and become real as well. Then healing happens naturally. 

It's so easy to get caught in endless mixed messages, hopes and dreams and not know what to believe, or where to go. But Soen Roshi told us that it is easy to step out of confusion, and showed us how. First step is not to be confused by your confusion, see it what it is. Then he showed how to return to this very moment and our original guidance and experience.

There is so much pressure during the holiday season to give gifts that will make others happy, and make us feel good about ourselves. But until we understand the true nature of giving, and what it is that makes others truly happy, our efforts are often in vain. In fact, they can backfire on us. Let's understand the truth about relationships, and become able to enjoy truly giving to ourselves and others, without any strain.

It is so easy to take others for granted. We think we know who someone is, what they are feeling and how they will always respond. But a Zen saying tells us, "If I haven't seen you for three days, I cannot say I know you." Unless we embark upon mindful relationships we cannot see the beauty and freshness in others. We carry along our old expectations and grudges and put both ourselves and others in a prison without bars.

We don't think twice about showering each day, brushing our teeth, exercising, and preparing for the day. Our physical well being is crucial to us. And yet, so few take the time to refresh and renew their inner world daily. They may not see the enormous benefit to their everyday life, a daily practice of spiritual renewal can offer. Here we look at some simple, yet powerful ways of doing this, and how important it is.

Although we may not be aware of it, estranged relationships take a large toll in our lives. They drain our energy and cause a ongoing sense of sorrow and loss. However, there are simple, yet powerful ways of healing these relationships, seeing what's missing, what needs to be said, given and received. We can restore not only energy and enthusiasm, but the ability to open up again in life and love.

We are strive for perfection, to be the best we can. This struggle itself can bring great tension and unhappiness. We end up constantly comparing and judging ourselves. As as we change constantly, never hit the spot. When we learn, however, to welcome all aspects of ourselves, great energy, joy and possibility become possible in our lives.