"A rollin' stone gathers no moss"
-Hendrix
Kolkatta
Click here to see a video of my Kolkatta experience.
<3
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Monday, October 7, 2013
"The Love you take is equal to the Love you make"
- Lennon
The healer
We can all agree that life forms have the ability to heal themselves. Whether it is the Earth, a plant or a fellow human being, there is a natural process of regeneration. This is understood largely on a physical and mental level as one gets a cut or has a bad experience and within a few days the body has healed the wound or the emotional distress. Of course, we also have ways to increase this rate of healing through applying bandages, ointments, practicing meditation or perhaps some sort of psychotherapy. There is, however, one aspect of the human experience which is often omitted in this mind~body paradigm. Oh yes... Spirit.
While practicing yoga back in the U.S, I found that the instructors rarely (if ever) made mention of our etheric body. Even in India most young people, and "westernized" individuals, roll their eyes and snicker at such ideas of the soul, spirit and trans-empirical body. I understand that this topic is not for everyone, and it may be met with great aversion and skepticism among many of my friends and family. I do, however, feel a strong calling to share what I have learned regarding energy and holistic healing, for I sense that this information is vital in our modern age.
About two months ago I experienced a strange pain in my right shoulder blade. I had done nothing in particular to injure my shoulder, although I had been trying a new meditation on the heart a few days prior. Once I realized the pain was actually getting worse, I decided to seek out a prana healer. I had been told to be wary of phonies and con-artists in this regard, however, upon meeting this young lady I felt an initial sense of genuine compassion and nurturing energy.
I was asked to sit in a chair with my palms facing up and my tongue to the roof of my mouth. The healer, Madu, proceeded to light incense and presented a large bowl of salt water. Afterwords, she stood near me and moved energy with her hands and no touch was applied. Before the session I rated my pain as 7/10, and as soon as she was done there was a considerable decline to about 5/10. As the day went on, the pain continued to diminish until I woke up the next day completely healed. I was not charged for this first healing, and all future sessions were to be fifty rupees (less than one U.S dollar); she is practically doing charitable healing.
Energy, otherwise known as prana, operates based on intention; it can go where one wishes and do as one commands. Similarly, if someone does not believe that this type of healing will work, the energies will not heal that person because they are not intentionally being received. I sat in meditation as Madu healed my shoulder, and apparently when she was standing behind me working with different chakras I was eliciting physical responses such as shifting in my seat as she adjusted the root or wiggling my head as she energized the crown. In later sittings I completely opened up to her. We discussed issues I have faced in the past as well as emotional blocks and spiritual hindrances I experience each day.
I have since introduced several like-minded friends to this holistic-healing method, and they too have found it with great enthusiasm. To be clear, prana healing is in no way intended to replace or be held above physiological or psychological methods of healing; it is instead meant to work alongside these other aspects of healing. The health of the physical, emotional and spiritual body are interdependent on one another. Without addressing the ailment of one aspect of our being, we will see a deterioration on all other levels of our existence.
I would like to invite readers to comment on this post, either here on the blog, on facebook, or in a private message. Light workers, open minds and skeptics are all welcome to contribute to the dialogue. Again, the affects of this type of energy work is solely dependent on the participant's openness to the procedure. There are workshops and ashrams where this is taught and I plan to learn as much as possible before I come back to the states. If anyone is interested I will be happy to spread the Love and Light.
Namaste,
Nithin King <== this is an Indian name that sounds like mine and is easier for Indians to say, so I go by it often! : P <3~ GrAnOla BeAr~<3
Oo0Oo0o, and if you would like to chat with Madu and learn more about prana healing, visit her facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pranichealing.miracles?fref=ts
Friday, September 13, 2013
"Why can't we be friends?"
-War
Seeking to understand
As long as I can remember I have been advised to avoid the following two topics in casual conversation: Religion and politics. However, it seems that those conversations are always the most spicy! I learn so much about somebody by discussing social or spiritual views with them, and not only that, but I end up learning about myself by articulating my beliefs.
Upon arrival, I met a nice young man named John. He's about my age, a philosophy major, likes to sing n' play guitar, and he practices Christianity. John eventually introduced me to a kind and courteous gentleman named Mahmoud, a Ph.D. student from Gaza studying linguistics who happens to practice Islam. The three of us shared many evenings drinking tea and going for walks. It wasn't long before curiosity about each other's spiritual and religious beliefs began to dominate our regular subject matter.
As you may or may not know Christianity and Islam share many similarities as well as glaring differences, and the debate over which one is the most pure religion is an age old quarrel. Despite my efforts to neutralize this endless debate, these two crazy kids would carry on citing scriptures, sharing videos and having lengthy discussions. I began to have a genuine interest in the flow of their dialogue.
When asked to share my views, I found that I was smack-dab in between the two. I believe that everyone, whether religious, secular, sacred or profane, has something to teach. I believe that God/Supreme consciousness/ Source energy /Allah/ the Universe has chosen to manifest itself in many forms such as people like you and me, Jesus, Buddha, Gandhi, Rumi and Mohammad etc. as well as nature itself; the starts, planets and all of the cosmos. Some refer to this as Pantheism (seeing Everything as God). Although, this often does not always satisfy those who inquire because I have effectively avoided selecting one box with which to place my spiritual understanding, instead I identify with the path of modern Shamanism.
The dialogue continues with myself acting as somewhat of a mediator between the two, until one day a challenge is posed. Mahmoud asks John to present written evidence that the Bible is the "true word of God". Upon hearing this I couldn't help but roll my eyes, "When will it end?!" I asked. However, after reading John's statement and Mahmoud's response, I am actual quite glad that I have been caught up in the middle of this friendly dispute.
Some would say that in the U.S Muslims are often perceived to be a dangerous people, filled with evil intentions and such. Since my arrival in India, I have met many Muslims, and each one has been very polite, humble and peaceful; not at all terrifying. The unnecessary Islamaphobia portrayed by the media has actual stirred up quite a bit of interest and curiosity among Western minds. For those of you who are interested to read the written exchange between John and Mahmoud, I have attached their documents.
PLEASE feel free to comment and share your opinions either on this blog, in a facebook post, or personally with me in an email. I am also quite certain that either of these gentlemen would be happy to elaborate on their views and share more information. WE are ALL brothers and sisters, and the more we see each other as such, the closer we get to realizing world peace. Believe in Peace.
Love,
Nathan King
Bible Proof - John
In response to John - Mahmoud
-War
Seeking to understand
As long as I can remember I have been advised to avoid the following two topics in casual conversation: Religion and politics. However, it seems that those conversations are always the most spicy! I learn so much about somebody by discussing social or spiritual views with them, and not only that, but I end up learning about myself by articulating my beliefs.
Upon arrival, I met a nice young man named John. He's about my age, a philosophy major, likes to sing n' play guitar, and he practices Christianity. John eventually introduced me to a kind and courteous gentleman named Mahmoud, a Ph.D. student from Gaza studying linguistics who happens to practice Islam. The three of us shared many evenings drinking tea and going for walks. It wasn't long before curiosity about each other's spiritual and religious beliefs began to dominate our regular subject matter.
As you may or may not know Christianity and Islam share many similarities as well as glaring differences, and the debate over which one is the most pure religion is an age old quarrel. Despite my efforts to neutralize this endless debate, these two crazy kids would carry on citing scriptures, sharing videos and having lengthy discussions. I began to have a genuine interest in the flow of their dialogue.
When asked to share my views, I found that I was smack-dab in between the two. I believe that everyone, whether religious, secular, sacred or profane, has something to teach. I believe that God/Supreme consciousness/ Source energy /Allah/ the Universe has chosen to manifest itself in many forms such as people like you and me, Jesus, Buddha, Gandhi, Rumi and Mohammad etc. as well as nature itself; the starts, planets and all of the cosmos. Some refer to this as Pantheism (seeing Everything as God). Although, this often does not always satisfy those who inquire because I have effectively avoided selecting one box with which to place my spiritual understanding, instead I identify with the path of modern Shamanism.
The dialogue continues with myself acting as somewhat of a mediator between the two, until one day a challenge is posed. Mahmoud asks John to present written evidence that the Bible is the "true word of God". Upon hearing this I couldn't help but roll my eyes, "When will it end?!" I asked. However, after reading John's statement and Mahmoud's response, I am actual quite glad that I have been caught up in the middle of this friendly dispute.
Some would say that in the U.S Muslims are often perceived to be a dangerous people, filled with evil intentions and such. Since my arrival in India, I have met many Muslims, and each one has been very polite, humble and peaceful; not at all terrifying. The unnecessary Islamaphobia portrayed by the media has actual stirred up quite a bit of interest and curiosity among Western minds. For those of you who are interested to read the written exchange between John and Mahmoud, I have attached their documents.
PLEASE feel free to comment and share your opinions either on this blog, in a facebook post, or personally with me in an email. I am also quite certain that either of these gentlemen would be happy to elaborate on their views and share more information. WE are ALL brothers and sisters, and the more we see each other as such, the closer we get to realizing world peace. Believe in Peace.
Love,
Nathan King
Bible Proof - John
In response to John - Mahmoud
Thursday, September 5, 2013
"Don't doubt the fact there's life within you."
-Anderson
Survival
In 2004, the Indian subcontinent was hit by a tsunami. The indigenous tribes living on the islands and coast decided to travel to the hills and mountains several days before the tsunami hit. Anthropologists report that the tribal people knew the storm was coming because they noticed a change in the flight patterns of the birds around them. Indian military personnel, fisherman and other people living on the coast died, yet the tribes were left unscathed.
Development. What might be right for you, may not be right for some. While studying applied anthropology and tribal welfare, it has become apparent just how difficult it is to determine what is and is not a tribe. The level of assimilation into "civilized" society is a major determining factor. Yet what is compromised by this assimilation? Is it possible to introduce Wi-fi and Snuggies to tribal communities, while retaining their essence of identity? For that matter, how much intervention do these communities even want from modern society?
The University of Hyderabad is located outside of the city, and the campus is filled with thick jungle, huge boulder fields and beautiful wildlife. A midst this serene scene are a multitude of fifty story condos, massive malls and shopping centers, and there is no sign of stopping as more and more buildings are erected each day. Much of this development, I'm told, has happened only within the last ten or fifteen years. This is all well and good, however, one has to wonder how much attention and care is being brought to the villages and tribal communities.
Consider again our clever tsunami dodging tribal sisters and brothers. Is it right to consider them primitive, backwards and less knowledgeable? Sure, they may not be able to speak English or update their Facebook statuses, but when you consider things like food sovereignty and self sustainability they begin to appear quite knowledgeable. What will happen if the food truck drivers suddenly decide not to deliver to your local grocery? Or if water doesn't come out of your faucet? What if the power sudden goes out indefinitely, or the petrol pump is bone dry. Maybe there are some things us "civilized" folk can learn from our tribal friends. Thoughts?
Much love to all,
N8KING (gRaNoLa BeAr)
-Anderson
Survival
In 2004, the Indian subcontinent was hit by a tsunami. The indigenous tribes living on the islands and coast decided to travel to the hills and mountains several days before the tsunami hit. Anthropologists report that the tribal people knew the storm was coming because they noticed a change in the flight patterns of the birds around them. Indian military personnel, fisherman and other people living on the coast died, yet the tribes were left unscathed.
Development. What might be right for you, may not be right for some. While studying applied anthropology and tribal welfare, it has become apparent just how difficult it is to determine what is and is not a tribe. The level of assimilation into "civilized" society is a major determining factor. Yet what is compromised by this assimilation? Is it possible to introduce Wi-fi and Snuggies to tribal communities, while retaining their essence of identity? For that matter, how much intervention do these communities even want from modern society?
The University of Hyderabad is located outside of the city, and the campus is filled with thick jungle, huge boulder fields and beautiful wildlife. A midst this serene scene are a multitude of fifty story condos, massive malls and shopping centers, and there is no sign of stopping as more and more buildings are erected each day. Much of this development, I'm told, has happened only within the last ten or fifteen years. This is all well and good, however, one has to wonder how much attention and care is being brought to the villages and tribal communities.
Consider again our clever tsunami dodging tribal sisters and brothers. Is it right to consider them primitive, backwards and less knowledgeable? Sure, they may not be able to speak English or update their Facebook statuses, but when you consider things like food sovereignty and self sustainability they begin to appear quite knowledgeable. What will happen if the food truck drivers suddenly decide not to deliver to your local grocery? Or if water doesn't come out of your faucet? What if the power sudden goes out indefinitely, or the petrol pump is bone dry. Maybe there are some things us "civilized" folk can learn from our tribal friends. Thoughts?
Much love to all,
N8KING (gRaNoLa BeAr)
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
"Music is a world within itself"
- Wonder
The musical yogi
Once there was a saint named Swami Hari Dass who was absolutely in tune with the universe. His music brought flame to candles, and rains from the sky. One day, as he sat in the forest singing in his traditional Dhrupad style, King Ahkbar came strolling through to find this yogi in absolute musical bliss. "You there!" said the King disturbing Hari Dass from his meditation, "Your singing is exquisite, and I must have you in my court as entertainment for my esteemed guests and royal family." Hari Dass sat on the ground in his loin cloth smiling and politely declined the King's wish.
Shocked, the King exclaimed, "I will adorn you in the finest of fabrics, and you shall be surrounded by beautiful women and luxurious accommodations!" The saint continued to gently shake his head. "Your talents will be known throughout my kingdom, and you shall be held in high regard above all other musicians! How could you possibly decline such a bountiful opportunity?" After a moment of silence and few gentle breaths, Hari Dass told the king, "I need only to work honestly, meditate everyday, meet new people without fear, and play". With that, Swami Hari Dass returned to his mediation, and King Ahkbar went on to employ the saint's finest deciple, Tan San, to play in his court and begin the Sani Gharana musical tradition.
Music has not always been a performance practice. Originally there was no need for a stage, an audience or even a preconceived aesthetic with which the artist is expected to mold their expression. The musician was focused primarily on honing his or her connection with the universe; and through that connection realizing a state of Ananda (bliss). This state is realized when the musician becomes the composer, performer, and listener all at the same time. My teacher and I both believe that this state of bliss may be realized through visual art, dance, poetry, love, and many other form of expression.
In the Western world, it seems that there is a common understanding that the brain is the main control center of the body, and the heart is like a pump that keeps everything running smoothly. However, I am beginning to think that there is more to this mind~heart connection. The HEART is the center of our being. It is the heart that sings, the brain that interprets, and the body that manifests the interpretation. Practice is when we refine this ability to immediately understand our heart's intention and execute the action fluidly. This is why musicians drill scales and rudimentary techniques, they are strengthening the mind~body connection so that when it is time to express the feelings of the heart, there is a clear channel of energy, and a seamless delivery.
The story in the beginning of this post is a combination of what I have learned from my gurus and friends Joe "Rahini" Ridolfo, Trip "Bholla" Slagle, and Professor Raja. I have paraphrased, included a few historical figures, and added some 'story telling spice' of my own. I would like to encourage each of you to seek out and enjoy your own means of expression, and let it bring joy to your life and to the lives of those around you. Listen to your heart; as it is always humming, and sometimes it is singing! Follow your passion and always remember to play.
Love and Light,
Nathan King (Granola Bear)
- Wonder
The musical yogi
Once there was a saint named Swami Hari Dass who was absolutely in tune with the universe. His music brought flame to candles, and rains from the sky. One day, as he sat in the forest singing in his traditional Dhrupad style, King Ahkbar came strolling through to find this yogi in absolute musical bliss. "You there!" said the King disturbing Hari Dass from his meditation, "Your singing is exquisite, and I must have you in my court as entertainment for my esteemed guests and royal family." Hari Dass sat on the ground in his loin cloth smiling and politely declined the King's wish.
Shocked, the King exclaimed, "I will adorn you in the finest of fabrics, and you shall be surrounded by beautiful women and luxurious accommodations!" The saint continued to gently shake his head. "Your talents will be known throughout my kingdom, and you shall be held in high regard above all other musicians! How could you possibly decline such a bountiful opportunity?" After a moment of silence and few gentle breaths, Hari Dass told the king, "I need only to work honestly, meditate everyday, meet new people without fear, and play". With that, Swami Hari Dass returned to his mediation, and King Ahkbar went on to employ the saint's finest deciple, Tan San, to play in his court and begin the Sani Gharana musical tradition.
Music has not always been a performance practice. Originally there was no need for a stage, an audience or even a preconceived aesthetic with which the artist is expected to mold their expression. The musician was focused primarily on honing his or her connection with the universe; and through that connection realizing a state of Ananda (bliss). This state is realized when the musician becomes the composer, performer, and listener all at the same time. My teacher and I both believe that this state of bliss may be realized through visual art, dance, poetry, love, and many other form of expression.
In the Western world, it seems that there is a common understanding that the brain is the main control center of the body, and the heart is like a pump that keeps everything running smoothly. However, I am beginning to think that there is more to this mind~heart connection. The HEART is the center of our being. It is the heart that sings, the brain that interprets, and the body that manifests the interpretation. Practice is when we refine this ability to immediately understand our heart's intention and execute the action fluidly. This is why musicians drill scales and rudimentary techniques, they are strengthening the mind~body connection so that when it is time to express the feelings of the heart, there is a clear channel of energy, and a seamless delivery.
The story in the beginning of this post is a combination of what I have learned from my gurus and friends Joe "Rahini" Ridolfo, Trip "Bholla" Slagle, and Professor Raja. I have paraphrased, included a few historical figures, and added some 'story telling spice' of my own. I would like to encourage each of you to seek out and enjoy your own means of expression, and let it bring joy to your life and to the lives of those around you. Listen to your heart; as it is always humming, and sometimes it is singing! Follow your passion and always remember to play.
Love and Light,
Nathan King (Granola Bear)
Thursday, August 22, 2013
"Breathe, breathe in the air"
-Gilmour
Use the force
It is common knowledge that taking a few deep breathes can help one to stabilize their state of mind and find peace. When we are emotionally upset we may be breathing irregularly, and some people believe that taking a few deep conscious breaths can help one to overcome feelings of anger or intense sadness. By tapping in to our connection with the air around us we enhance our state of being, and in turn, the effect that we have on the world around us.
Energy. We are surrounded by an infinite field of energy that is often referred to as Prana. It is from this life source that we receive unlimited vitality, wisdom and power. Consider stopping for a moment and think about the inhale and exhale of one breath. Go on... This is a practice of linking the mind and the body. When we do this, we alter our energetic frequency and open our mind to higher states of consciousness. I can go into more detail on what I have learned regarding pranayama and the states, attributes and activities of the mind if there is an expressed interest in the comments.
For now, I would like to invite each and every reader to consider focusing on the breath. This does not require any religious ritual; you don't need to bend your legs into a pretzel or go to a yoga class to work towards clarity of mind. Meditation can happen while you drive your car, or even as you calmly walk through your house. Patanjali says that we need only to focus the mind on one thing to experience yoga; this can be an image, music, an idea or (best of all) the breath.
However, the mind wants to focus on many things all at once. So each time you gently pull the mind back to it's point of focus, you are strengthening your "meditation muscle" and bringing yourself closer to equanimity of mind. Next time you find yourself being forced to wait for something, don't hate ~ meditate. The universe is giving you an opportunity to experience stillness. Breathe. I love each and every one of you with all of my heart, may we all bask in Love, Light and Peace.
Sincerely,
Nathan King (Granola Brer)
-Gilmour
Use the force
It is common knowledge that taking a few deep breathes can help one to stabilize their state of mind and find peace. When we are emotionally upset we may be breathing irregularly, and some people believe that taking a few deep conscious breaths can help one to overcome feelings of anger or intense sadness. By tapping in to our connection with the air around us we enhance our state of being, and in turn, the effect that we have on the world around us.
Energy. We are surrounded by an infinite field of energy that is often referred to as Prana. It is from this life source that we receive unlimited vitality, wisdom and power. Consider stopping for a moment and think about the inhale and exhale of one breath. Go on... This is a practice of linking the mind and the body. When we do this, we alter our energetic frequency and open our mind to higher states of consciousness. I can go into more detail on what I have learned regarding pranayama and the states, attributes and activities of the mind if there is an expressed interest in the comments.
For now, I would like to invite each and every reader to consider focusing on the breath. This does not require any religious ritual; you don't need to bend your legs into a pretzel or go to a yoga class to work towards clarity of mind. Meditation can happen while you drive your car, or even as you calmly walk through your house. Patanjali says that we need only to focus the mind on one thing to experience yoga; this can be an image, music, an idea or (best of all) the breath.
However, the mind wants to focus on many things all at once. So each time you gently pull the mind back to it's point of focus, you are strengthening your "meditation muscle" and bringing yourself closer to equanimity of mind. Next time you find yourself being forced to wait for something, don't hate ~ meditate. The universe is giving you an opportunity to experience stillness. Breathe. I love each and every one of you with all of my heart, may we all bask in Love, Light and Peace.
Sincerely,
Nathan King (Granola Brer)
Thursday, August 8, 2013
"We are all together."
- Lennon
Perspective
Last night I had the pleasure of attending a Qawwali performance by the Warsi brothers at the DST auditorium on campus. Outstanding delivery! The Warsi brothers were singing and playing harmonium as they displayed their music with elegant and poetic artistry. The two brothers were accompanied by two additional singers as well as tabla and mridangam. The singers brought a sense of genuine passion and devotion to the stage, and the crowd responded with uproarious applause and cheering during and after each song.
I was fortunate enough to be accompanied by my new friend Sritama, a graduate student in the sociology department here at UOH. Sritama helped me to understand the poems and brief speeches given by the singers. Many times their messages were regarding unconditional love and universal peace among all cultures and religions. I had previously not been familiar with the Sufi Qawwali, but it seems to be closely related to the devotional practice of Bhakti.
In addition to helping me understand Hindi, Sritama also shared with me some responses to my previous blog entries, particularly regarding my remarks about being treated differently because of my skin pigment. Sritama suggested that instead of the "colonial hangover" perspective I have adopted, this different treatment I am receiving is more of an Indian hospitality practice; as if I am being treated as this county's guest. I like that perspective. : )
I am extremely open to feedback. In fact, I would like to strongly encourage comments either directly on the blog posts or sent to me in person. I am surprised each day at the number of views! Thank you all so much for sharing and reading this blog, it inspires me to keep writing. I am feelin' the love.
Peace,
Nathan King (Granola Bear)
- Lennon
Perspective
Last night I had the pleasure of attending a Qawwali performance by the Warsi brothers at the DST auditorium on campus. Outstanding delivery! The Warsi brothers were singing and playing harmonium as they displayed their music with elegant and poetic artistry. The two brothers were accompanied by two additional singers as well as tabla and mridangam. The singers brought a sense of genuine passion and devotion to the stage, and the crowd responded with uproarious applause and cheering during and after each song.
I was fortunate enough to be accompanied by my new friend Sritama, a graduate student in the sociology department here at UOH. Sritama helped me to understand the poems and brief speeches given by the singers. Many times their messages were regarding unconditional love and universal peace among all cultures and religions. I had previously not been familiar with the Sufi Qawwali, but it seems to be closely related to the devotional practice of Bhakti.
In addition to helping me understand Hindi, Sritama also shared with me some responses to my previous blog entries, particularly regarding my remarks about being treated differently because of my skin pigment. Sritama suggested that instead of the "colonial hangover" perspective I have adopted, this different treatment I am receiving is more of an Indian hospitality practice; as if I am being treated as this county's guest. I like that perspective. : )
I am extremely open to feedback. In fact, I would like to strongly encourage comments either directly on the blog posts or sent to me in person. I am surprised each day at the number of views! Thank you all so much for sharing and reading this blog, it inspires me to keep writing. I am feelin' the love.
Peace,
Nathan King (Granola Bear)
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