painting by AliAli reports:
Last night, one of my dear students (and honorary Yogi from our recent India trip), Shiv, had a clear vision of Ganesh (Gaṇeśa) during his meditation. A vision of Gaṇeśa represents the beginning of new spiritual growth, and offers divine protection as life obstacles clear.
For devoted followers, Ganesh also offers prosperity and success in new endeavours. Although he is the first deity to be invoked during many Hindu ceremonies, you don’t have to be Hindu to enjoy Ganesh’s powerful and helpful benefits.
Gaṇeśa ‘vehicle’ is a mouse or rat called Mūṣaka-vāhana, symbolizing the transformation of tamasic (dark, stagnant) energy, overcoming cycles of desire.
One of the many mantras to Ganesha is ‘Vakratunda Mahakaya’. This mantra is one that I sung over and over before I spontaneously painted the picture above.
Mantra:
Shree Vakratunda Mahakaya Koti-surya (surya-koti) Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada॥
Meaning:
O auspicious Ganesha, with curved trunk and huge form, with equal brilliance to a billion shining Suns, Please give me divine blessings so obstacles clear, and all my best endeavours are realized.
Change of topic …
One of our Challenge Yogis send this frightening picture of her corporate morning tea. It may look like standard office fare, except there is a high degree of refined flour, sugar, artificial colourings, and processed meats on this table, which are all linked to cancer.
How Does Processed Meat Affect Cancer Risk?
The American Institute of Cancer Research reports:
“The latest analysis of the global research found that eating even small amounts of cold cuts or other processed meats on a regular basis increases the risk of colorectal cancer.”
http://www.aicr.org/enews/2014/08-august/faq-processed-meat-and.html
Maybe this combination of Ganesh and food-related cancer will remind us to be fully conscious next time a colleague or family member tucks into a bacon butty or sausage roll.
NZ Yoga Centre - AOTEAROA 