I went to yoga class this morning, something I look forward to on the weekends after a busy work week. And I must admit, there is that moment of hesitation before I roll out of my cozy bed and leave the family for two hours on Sunday morning. But once I get to class, I remember why I’m there (perhaps similar to those moments when we want to procrastinate about checking our garden). Today I went to Annie Carpenter’s class. As usual, her classes are INTENSE but very rewarding. The theme of the class today seemed to be Drishti, a Sanskrit word which is the practice of gazing in order to concentrate, allowing us to see outwardly while bringing our attention inside of ourselves. As I was twisted in asana, it dawned on me that working in my garden is a form of Drishti. By checking my vegetables, gazing at them intently while looking for bugs an amazing thing happens, I become connected inwardly and voilà, relaxation sets in. It’s that unconscious connection to the earth (digging in the soil, picking off leaves, watering) that miraculously creates peace. This is just another explanation of why gardening is just plain addictive in the most positive sense. There’s something incredibly calming about interacting with veggies that are growing in the garden.
So I say to you, you may be practicing Drishti without even knowing it. It’s a meditation without even trying. Check in with your veggie garden, look at its beauty and take a moment to notice that your mind and your body may feel that glorious sense of calm. It’s definitely something to be thankful for.
Happy gardening!
urbanfig 