ZB Class Summary 10/15/08

The Blindfold

The exercises were centered on using a blindfold to enhance focus and concentration on movement.  After beginning with a review of The joints, everyone used a blindfold so that we could enjoy the feeling of not being watched and go deeply inside.  We then proceeded to pair into partners so that we could expand our movement with a partner making sure we did not run into anyone or anything in the room. 

The purpose of the blindfold is to allow a deeper focus of attention.  We can understand what to do and how to do it, but the real benefit comes with an extended focus of attention.  There is a simple sequence of focused awareness that is essential to the healing process:  There is an Awakening, a Discovery, and an Unfolding.   The healing exercises all serve this three part process. 

The Healing Process

I will always restate the five steps in the healing process: 

1.  Body Awareness:  The body is one "whole" made of many parts.  These parts can become scattered or disconnected, reflecting the state of mind or emotions.  If we understand how to thread the parts  we can "pull ourselves together" and experience a regeneration of energy.  

2.  What Do I Want?:  Body Awareness prepares us for the next step which is to tap into desire and dreams of a happy life.   Suffering and disconnection is often caused by unclear and unexpressed desire.   To become clear about what we want is essential.

3.  Creation:  Exploring what we want causes a release of creative energy.  Much of our suffering is caused by withheld expression.   We may be inspired to create something very big, or just collect seashells to arrange on the window sill.  But create we must.

4.  Partnership:  Coming together to explore and create is the foundation of partnership.  Sharing what is important, what we are discovering, and what we would like to contribute to the world is a cornerstone of the healing process. 

5.  The Heart of a Child:  A child approaches things with wonder, exploration, and openness.  Messes are expected, mistakes are funny.  We are too often pulled away from our process of exploration by self-consciousness or fear. Our approach determines the outcome. 

Seed and Sunlight

I gave this simple example.  Sunlight is like our focused attention.  The seed is the healing and creative potential that resides in us.  The seed is awakened by the sunlight.  The seed reaches into the earth and up into the light to discover what is possible.  Then with the constant return of the light, the seed will unfold the flower and fruit.    It is the constant return of the sunlight that stirs life and bears fruit.