July 21, 2010

You have drawn down the SKY!

The moon and stars rejoice in dance with you.

Break the mold into which you were born.

Open to your true self -

The Divine Nature of all you were meant to be

Sing of your joy

Let it break open your heart

and spill over into the World

Share all that you Are

leaving no thought unturned

to revel in the fullness of Creation.

This was originally a post from my South of I-10 Girlie-Queue blog, but because it has such relevance to body/mind I’m reposting it over here.

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Back on June 2nd, I weighed in for the start of a 4 week “Boot Camp” fitness session and paid my $50 for 12 classes. Theresa, one of Shelly’s cousins is a nutritionist and a fitness trainer, back in May she began advertising for West Baton Rouge Boot Camp.  A ”Boot Camp” fitness series; three, 4-week sessions, meeting 3 times each week for one-hour. Did I mention outside, on the levee over in Port Allen… in the Louisiana Summer heat?

A brief description of the area: Baton Rouge is located on the East bank of the Mississippi River. Port Allen is located immediately on the other side of the New Mississippi River Bridge from Baton Rouge on the North side of the bridge and the levees of the two cities face one another. Each levee has been built up so that there is concrete on at least the river side of the levee with grass on the other and a huge side-walk/walkway along the top of the levee with a gazebo located in the middle of the sidewalk.

We work out from 5:45-6:45PM Mondays and Wednesdays and from 8:30-9:30AM on Saturdays. I should let my readers know that I have been exceptionally lazy for the first five months of this year. Sure, I’ve been performing and have even taught a few dance classes, but it is not the same as being committed to teaching five to nine hours of class a week and performing on weekends. I have officially been at my current desk job for 2 years and 11 months. During that time I have seen my dancing time drop off to almost nothing, let alone any kind of physical activity besides the occasional afternoon canoeing venture. I have become a cream-puff by comparison to my former Dance Instructor/Performer life-style of almost three years ago now. During the course of the last 2years and 11 months I have somehow managed to gain approximately 13 pounds. I am 5′ 1″ tall and even something as little as 5 pounds really affects my body; joints begin to ache, I can feel my breath shorten, oh no, it does not take much.
Back to June 2nd, the weigh in. I was weighed in at 18.2 lbs with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 21.8 (18 being the border-line to anorexia and 24 being obese). I was beyond unhappy. Of course I’d been watching this happen at the doctor’s office for two years, but since I only go once a year, it was easy to ignore the steady weight climb. Regardless, it was beyond time to start truly taking care of myself.

The first day of “Boot Camp” I remembered what it was like to work in a group, not necessarily with, but in a group. I was immediately brought back to high school volleyball practices and circuit training where there would be 30 or 40 girls all working out together, but for their own individual progress. I am now reminded of how many groups I have been a part of where emphasis was/is placed on the work load seeming to lighten when working in a group. It is true, no matter how you slice it. Group energy will always pull you along if you’re willing. Ultimately I decided to join this class because I knew I needed the group energy to get me going.

I can be a highly competitive person, but in this instance, it was all about me. And so it began, day one, warming up and right into running “The Snake”. The Snake is a run that begins at the top of the levee and zigs down (about 30 feet) and then back up every 10 feet or so for almost 100 yards. That was the first exercise she had us do and I was certain I would fail. I did not. I ran the entire time, but only walked back instead of jogging when I reached the end of the snake. Since then, almost five weeks ago, the running has become easier. I have remembered with zeal how much I enjoy sprinting; just a flat out sprint for the sake of running as hard an as fast as I can. I have also remembered that I am almost 37 years old and that my knees have always given me problems. So now I have to balance my zeal with my body’s insistent messages that I pay attention.

I have been loving sweating. I mean, pouring sweat, some days the heat index has been 109 degrees, but it has been challenging and I have remembered how much I need challenges in my life. Not the kind where Life itself challenges me, I get that plenty but I have not been challenging myself nearly enough. Anyone who knows me will know how much I do not enjoy running, but running suicides that last 10 minutes or The Snake, or “Indian Runs” where you have a line of people running and the last person keeps sprinting to the front have been challenging, and that has made it fun. Theresa one day showed up with home-made medicine balls that we and our partners chucked to one another while walking down the levee. We’ve also been working with 5lb weights for our arms, as well as when we do crunches and sit-ups. We’ve done walking lunges, jumping squats, you name it, everything I would groan about as a teenager, I find I still groan about as an adult, the difference now is that I appreciate that I am even capable of this kind of workout.  All-in-all, I feel like I’m back at circuit training for volleyball pre-season. It’s great!

The second weigh-in occurred Saturday, July 3rd and I had dropped exactly 4 ounces and my BMI went up one-tenth of a point to 21.9. I cannot deny that I left the levee that morning on a bit of a down note, even with the 4th of July around the corner.  But it was a turning point in my thinking and that was what I really needed – a new mind-set.  Even though I had been working out regularly for four weeks, I had not attempted to count calories or really mind what I was eating. Last Tuesday, July 6th I began counting calories. And that apparently is it. Doing what we always knew was the key, Eat Less, Exercise More; balancing my new more-sedentary life with appropriate eating.  As of yesterday I officially lost one pound and I feel good about this first small step.  I know I am creating a life-style change that will carry my body into future decades.

“Teaching is to be in the doing of the thing.”

At least that is what I heard as I sat in meditation with Gurdjieff and other Sufi Masters.

I began the music and moved to the center of the room, my hands pressed together in ‘Angeli’ (prayer position), my fingertips at my 3rd eye. I do not know where this began, only that I became aware I was doing this last week instead of crossing my arms over my chest.  It just feels ‘natural’.  I stood there, swaying, nauseous. I have not felt well all morning, and as I started into my practice the weight of the nausea sank down, increasing the feeling.  His voice, lighter than the coo of a dove said, “If you are not well, then just Bewith us.  Do not force the action.”  So I sat.  Eyes cl0sed, legs “criss-cross-apple-sauced,” hands…?  I didn’t know what to do with my hands, until suddenly they found themselves, right hand palm face up, left hand palm face down… whirling, kind of.  I was not seated long before I felt the energy of the room thicken.  The spirits of those involved in this practice, revolving around me in an eternal whirl.  Somewhere in the ether, they are always whirling.  I now believe this.  I felt them moving around and then felt the palms of my hands begin to tingle as they do when I whirl.

Not an hour before I entered the space I had read a beautiful blog post from my friend Alysia Markoe Johnson on working with our guides.  In short, she explained that we can take on the energies of our guides when we need help in any way.  To this end, I spoke directly to Gurdjieff and said, “If I am not whirling, what am I supposed to be learning?”  It was then that I heard,  ”Teaching is to be in the doing of the thing.”  And somehow, I felt, knew?that Gurdjieff had moved to whirl with the others, engaging me to follow his progress as well as the others’.  Even as I watched him, I knew that I was simultaneously with him in the whirling… a Teacher demonstrating for the student from the deepest level.   This was all to say that to teach is simply to do the thing we are teaching, to pay attention, to participate.  Here I sat, in the midst of swirling energies, acknowledging that even seated during this moving meditation, I was still in the presence of learning, that I was in fact ‘doing’.  As they left me, I felt the brushes of gently, kissing lips touch my crown and dissolve.

Yes, yes, I am still processing this and should perhaps not post my thought processes, yet there is something to this I will continue to let my spirit unravel.

Sometimes, simply “being” in the act of the “doing” is enough.

***♥*Jamie*♥***! Dangit woman, talk about nail on the head this morning! LOL

So, I’m laughing at Jamie Ridler who, every Wednesday unleashes simple, to the point questions, inspiring those of us who dare to tune in to our deepest selves the chance to cast our wishes not only into our own wells, but to wish along side one another rocking many a’world along the way. 

I’ve been sporadic on the front lately, but today… in the midst of considering some of my longest and most personal relationships, I open my Facebook news feed and find Jamie’s smiling little face next to the Wishcasting link.

Today she queries, “What do you wish for your relationships?”

For all my relationships today I wish for depth, peace, truth, understanding, boundless and encouraging love, joyful uplifting, compassion - and the sappiest of sappy – the attitude that nourishes: ”for better or for worse until death do us part”.  I want the relationships in my life to be a dark, rich, elaborate, layered chocolate cake that I can feel in my belly long after the taste has left my mouth… yeah, gross if you’d like, but I say textured and lavish.

In 30 years I want to look into the eyes of my partner and see reflected, the layers still peeling away.  I want my relationships to grow eternally, their roots plummeting and careening through the deepest, darkest layers for stability, support and strength.  And most importantly, I wish for vast expanses of luscious, open-ness to linger in the sweetness of my most beautiful relationships.

Aho, Mitaquiasin – All My Relations

I began writing this piece Monday, May 3rd.  The following Sunday, just over a week after this experience, I became violently ill (not before I whirled on Day 9 ) with what the doctor decided was either E. coli or Salmonella.  I was laid up in bed for almost an entire week and did not therefore whirl.  I tried to recommit several times, but had apparently lost my momentum.  While I was sick, my brain went over and over all of the things that had transpired the week before I became ill.  What had done this to me?  Was it really salad?  For 9 days in a row, I’d whirled.  I had been eating at least one if not two salads everyday for either lunch or supper or both.  I had begun to whirl every day.  I know I already said that, but I keep going back to what a powerful detoxification whirling is and how significant a role it played in my illness… or was it just the Alfalfa sprouts?  I may never know, but I can have my suspicions.

As I write this on July 1st, two months to the day, I have recommitted fully and began my morning with whirling.  30 Days begins today.  La ilaha ill Allah.

***

I am trampled grapes
Run where Love pulls me
‘Why whirl round me?’ you laugh
I’m whirling round myself

- Jalal-ud-Din Rumi

It began Saturday, May 1st.  Who knew? 

By noon Shelly, Kryss and I were already in downtown Baton Rouge at the 3rd street Fest For All stage awaiting our 12:30 show time.  Dressed, make-up’d and already sweating.  By 1:30 we were wrapped up and after packing all the equipment up and changing into some street clothes we walked around for a while.  By the time we realized it was 2:45, Kryss and I had to get on the road to New Orleans for a 5 PM whirling session.

***

A mad dash ensued; down to New Orleans on I-10, through Jazz Fest traffic and National Guardsmen and women convoying to the coast to combat the BP oil leak.  I arrived at Crescent Lotus at 5PM on the dot, Kryss was only five minutes behind.  There were 2 girls from Baton Rouge already waiting and another of my former students from BayouShimmy arrived, shortly followed by one of Kryss’ students.  Mats and blankets were laid out around the edges of the room for the participants to have a place to lie down after whirling.  We locked the doors at 5:20 to prevent any interruptions and I gave the spiel:

“Whirling is one of the primary purification rituals in Sufi traditions.  Because it is a purification practice, as you whirl, you may experience nausea.  But don’t let this stop you.  Keep breathing, always, and should you feel sick, breathe deeper into the feeling.  When we begin we cross our arms over our chests, hands on our shoulders signifying “The One” that we all are one with each other and creation.  It also helps to ground us in our heart centers.  As you begin to move, turn slowly to the left, opening your arms.  You may pivot on your left foot and push around with the right, or just make individual steps, left-right, left-right.  When we whirl we always whirl to the left.  This puts us in alignment with the spinning of the Universe and all that is in it, so that at some moment, we actually become a still point, in unison with the Universe and the stars, the Galaxy and everything.  The gaze should be soft and inward rather than looking out ‘trying’ to see anything.  Should you feel yourself becoming dizzy, spot (look at) the back of your left hand as you turn toward the left.  Always, our right hand is palm face up and the left is palm face down, receiving and giving simultaneously.  This hand positioning creates an energetic circuit through our bodies (of that giving and receiving) and also allows us to be further grounded.  When you feel that you want to stop, slow down, take your time.  Cross your hands over your heart again and come to a stop.  This is not a race.  Everyone will feel the effects regardless of their speed.  Take your time, go at your own pace.”

The room was dimly lit from the natural, muted sunlight coming through the sheer-curtained, wide windows across the front of the studio.  A pale yellow glow permeated the room; the reflection of the light off of the yellow-painted cinder block wall facing the mirrored wall.  The bamboo floor was slightly sticky from humidity, the rumbling hum of the window unit air conditioner came from the outer waiting room.  Steady breathing, scuffing feet: turn, turn, swish, swish, swish, step, step, step.

A few minutes into the whirl I began to feel the familiar sensation of ‘going home’.  It is difficult to describe except to say that to me it feels as though someone wraps me in a sparkly blanket and is not only holding, but holding me up.  When I feel this, I do what my mother calls “calling them down”, to me, I simply ‘welcome’ all Sufi masters and dervishes to join their spirits as we enact this centuries-old tradition.  I always feel their presence and occasionally I am aware that I am not the one who is actually moving my feet as I persistently turn.  I never try to hear, or try to see, but as I whirl, images will float into and out of my head, and sometimes I will hear voices of love or encouragement.  My spine feels ‘lit up’ like a Christmas tree, the tingly, energizing feeling warms, grows and begins to flow down my legs, around my low back into my belly and up my spine, flowing down into my arms and fingers, further up into the base of my scull, eventually pulling itself over my head, encasing my body from head to toe.  I feel as though I’ve just put on a wet suit.

I first felt him before I heard his voice.  It was Gurdjieff.  I have been faintly aware of his presence for years, but only on the outskirts.  I have never attempted to communicate any more deeply than just being aware of him.  I had known for a while he was trying to get my attention, but as I will when I am not yet ready for a teacher I conveniently put on blinders and went about my merry way.  This was inescapable.  He said simply, “It is time.  Whirl with me for the next 30 days.”  And I agreed to work with him.  That was that.

The whirling was … not divine, not luscious, not even glorious as it sometimes is, but rather deep and heavy with a very contemplative, almost serious quality.  I have experienced whirls where I vibrated afterwards for hours.  I have whirled alone and felt uplifted and joyful.  I have whirled in large groups and been exhausted.  This time was different.  I felt the community.  I felt the deep almost excruciating gratitude for being with souls who share this Space.  After everyone had finished their whirling and we had all rested a bit, we pulled out Hafiz.  I do not remember now whether it was ”The Gift” or “Love Poems”, but I began by reading one of the shorter poems and then passed the book around for each person in the circle to read one of the marked poems.

***

Later, much later, after supper and visiting, Kryss and I found our way to a funky little bar that was not really a bar, but a home in the middle of the lower 9th Ward that was being used as an intimate venue for live performances.  On this night, Kryss and I were in search of Flamenco.  Dancers and musicians.  The house was old, falling apart, dark, perfect.  There was a bar in the middle of the room with dilapidated couches and chairs circling the edge of the room.  There was not much seating and little of it ‘good’ for viewing, but all of its imperfections were what made the atmosphere.  In the ‘front’ closest to the area used as a stage were three little girls.  One was the daughter of the guitarist, a story unto herself, but the youngest was who caught our attention.  I later learned that she was less than 18 months old, but we watched her for nearly an hour as she rotated in place, whirling… to the right.  I make note of this because in our practice we whirl to the left to expell, to detoxify.  Yogis whirl to the right to increase energy, bring it ‘in’.  This child was whirling brilliantly to the right and only stumbled twice that I saw.  I was giddy in my witnessing and felt as much enthusiasm for her whirling as I felt for the Flamenco performance, which was powerful and inspiring.

***

I whirled every morning the following week for anywhere between 5 and 15 minutes.  On Sunday, May 9th, not feeling my best I had been to visit my Mother for Mother’s day and then drove to City Park where I had promised everyone I would be in case they would like to join me in my whirl.  No one else arrived, so I waited 10 minutes and then began on my own, golf  carts whooshing by in the background as I whirled in the Labyrinth.  Later that evening I became violently ill and though I made repeated attempts to regain my whirling practice after I was well a week later, I was never more consistent than a day at a time.

During the last month Gurdjieff has slipped into my meditations.  He calls to me, gently.  I love his spirit, so soft, so powerful.  He is not pushy but there is work to be done.  Last night as I meditated and realized that today would be July 1st I silently agreed again to work with the gentle Master and this morning I whirled.

La ilaha ill Allah

Great Blue Heron - Fishing in Louisiana Marsh

You can call me Pollyanna.  You can call me whatever you wish, and you may call me many things after reading this, but I am a firm believer in an affirmation I first heard from Ms. Louise Hay, “Out of this situation only good will come.”  And oh yes, please believe me when I say I live my life by this, including the current debacle with BP Oil and the Gulf of Mexico.

At first when the platform blew up my thoughts were for the people working the rig.  Later, my thoughts were with the families of the men who were at first only missing, and praying that there might be some remotely good resolution for the men and their families.  As a week went by and officials, professionals, and politicians ran around like headless chickens, it became apparent that no one was going to have a solution to ‘fix’  (temporarily or otherwise) the spewing oil leak any time soon.  Anytime soon.  None of us ever believed something this damaging with effects so widely-spread amongst environment, livelihood, economic, and general well-being would ever have been allowed to go on for over a month.

Even through this I continue to profess, out of this situation, only good will come.  This is not to say that I have not cried, that I have not been sickened to the point of wanting to vomit; I have.  But after those feelings went away I stepped back.  WAY back.  Out of this World back and looked at the bigger picture.

As a species, I hate to say we hit our comfort zones and ‘let it ride’, but if there are generalizations that can be made of the human race certainly one of them is, we don’t change as a whole until the absolute worst is staring us down.  This statement is based on simple observation of the human race throughout history.  If anyone wants to call me on it, please feel free, but keep in mind I am speaking of the Human Race, not a few pockets or a culture or country, but of all of us, together, as a whole.

Let me get back to the stepping WAY back to get some perspective on this situation.  After my initial outraged and sickened response, the first place my brain and my spirit had to go for a change of perspective was to the Earth.  The Earth as an entity, a living breathing organism Who has managed to flourish, seemingly die, resurrect and flourish again throughout millennia of any number of creatures inhabiting Her being; throughout any number of Earth-threatening catastrophes.  If the Gulf of Mexico should become so tainted that everything in and around it dies, yes, this would be beyond tragic and it would be Man’s fault (this time.)  But such an event would most definitely bring change.  I speak of a taboo-worst-case-scenario here, but the possibility is present whether we choose to state it or not.  Regardless of the worst case scenario, change has already taken place.  Change in people’s attitudes toward drilling, toward oil usage, toward methods, toward “Officials” who claim to be experts in their fields, change in people’s perceptions and how they see the world, their world, our world.  Change is occurring.  We can hope that there has been enough damage that change continues to infiltrate the hearts and minds of the Global Community.  That is my hope at any rate.

If we, as individuals, or even as a Community can step back and begin to see our place on this planet as what it is, a blip on the radar, then we have the option to see where there is actual good in this situation.  No, I still do not think innocent persons, wild-life or precious resources being killed is a ‘good‘ thing.  But because of the sacrifices of these innocents (lives and environment,) individuals and the World have stopped to listen, and to question.  I will always maintain that a person or situation that makes us question why we are doing anything holds us all to a higher standard of becoming truly Human.  And here we have an amazing opportunity to step forward raising humanity to a true level of stewardship of our planet. 

It is for all of these reasons and one other that I cannot sink into depression over this situation.  The other strong reason for myself is that I believe (as do many) that lending the kind of energy that depression, anger, hopelessness, frustration, vindication, etc. create, to this situation will only make it, the situation, worse.  Yeah, here comes my fluffy bunny side for sure, but I stand firm in my belief that sending love and prayers to this situation is the best course of action I have available.  Well, that and writing to my elected officials.  Change only takes place when we take action.  Prayer is action.  Love is action.  Writing those letters and making those phone calls are action.  Anything that contributes to despair will surely take us there.  And so it is a choice.  I make a choice not to be depressed, and to hold this situation up for the highest good of all.  Out of this situation only good will come.

OMGOSH LOL I so need to be working But instead I am WISHCASTING! - this is really too great because last night I dreamt of the lovely desk my co-worker has in his office. He is retiring Friday after 30 years and I am coveting his desk and shelves They are that Old 60′s *sturdy*, grey metal, white surface, *lots of surface space* furniture.

I have been longing for a space in my home where I could put an honest to goodness desk with a fabulous workspace How divine to have dreamed last night of this very thing (I’d forgotten about it until I read Mz. Jamie-Wunderkind’s prompt earlier.)

I wish for my space the clear-cut understanding of what is necessary and what is not. A beautiful open-ness that will contain a workspace just for me and my new writing. A table top that affords and makes available organization even while in the midst of messy projects. For all this I Dream/Wish and more, and whatever else the Universe sees fit (oh yes Big U, bring it on to give my space to allow her spaciousness, organization and messy creativity. AHO!

I am on Facebook a pretty good bit, simply because I work in front of a computer all day.  It’s not my first choice, but it could be oh so much worse

Through Facebook I have had the opportunity to meet amazing people, be involved in extraordinary activities and this “Pay it Forward Day” is one of the latter.  Sure, we should probably pay it forward everyday, and in many small ways I typically do.  But tomorrow, I’ll offer something slightly larger.  The catch for those of you not on my Facebook page is that you will probably have to join.

Here’s the official invite to “Pay it Forward Day” followed by my small contribution.

http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/event.php?eid=106599329364917&index=1

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PAY IT FORWARD DAY APRIL 29, 2010
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April 29, 2010 is the Official “Pay It Forward Day” and Karma Experiment is teaming up with the Pay It Forward Org to invite all of you to put into your calender this day where we as a group make a conscious organized effort apart from our our normal daily routines.

This event is a decision by you on April 29, 2010 to dedicate in doing actions of Paying it Forward throughout the entire day.

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To take part in this event all you have to do is:
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(1) RSVP to this event. (click attending)

(2) Click on “Invite People to Come” from the menu on the right.

(3) Select all your friends that you want to invite

So people know what to do please,
add this as a personal message:

Thurs. April 29th 2010 is the Official “Pay it Forward Day” Anywhere U are on the Planet~ Be the Change in the World~ start in your own Community… 1 Kind Act 4 the Planet, an Animal or Human Counts! Love+ Altruism + Action= Change. Please Share This~Ty

(4) Click on “Send invitation”

(5) Do acts of Paying it Forward on April 29, 2010.

(6) Share your ideas and plans on what you are going to do on your “Pay It Forward Day”.

Our Goal is to get a minimum of 10,000 registrations for Pay It Forward Day Event on April 29, 2010! Where we make a conscious effort to make a difference in someone else’s life.

Discover how Paying it Forward results in significant benefits, both physical and mental, for those who perform them and be inspired with Altruistic Stories from around the country and the world submitted by members like you on this day.

Find out what people are doing in your area by visiting this event and sharing with others your plans for April 29, 2010.

We together as a group CAN BE that change and makes an impact in everyone’s lives on April 29, 2010.

Please RSVP to the event and lets make a difference on April 29, 2010!!

Pay It Forward Day & Beyond~
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=6332203049&ref=ts

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EVENT COORDINATORS WANTED
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We are getting ready for our second organized event to reach out as a group to your local communities and we need your help.

We are seeking Event Coordinators to contact group members and get them to RSVP to the event.

If you are interested in becoming a Coordinator for this event, please Facebook message Adrianne Schmidt.

*Please make sure you have joined the group first so you can contact other members.

Subject: Pay It Forward Day

(Please include your name in the email so that we can message you in facebook)

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Me, Shamsi, again!  Okay, for my part in paying it forward you can simply follow this link, or go to my Facebook Page and look under the “Discussions” Tab for “Pay it Forward”:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shamsi/174139929689?v=app_2373072738

I am starting just a wee bit early, but here goes.

For the BIG show of Love that so many are participating in tomorrow (4/29/10), officially dubbed “Pay it Forward Day” I am offering a free 30 minute intuitive reading via phone.

The catch – not really any catches, but for whomever I read, I simply ask that they in turn, yes, you’ve got it – Pay it Forward. Somehow, anyhow, in whatever way you can. And don’t worry, if you have no idea how you would go about this, I guarantee one day in the near future the opportunity will present itself. And when that opportunity arises, I simply ask that you take action.

How’s this thing work anyway?
Well, I will have a random drawing of every one’s name who posts a reply to this discussion. And if you haven’t got anything snazzy to say, just say “I’m in!”

It really is that simple. I’ll post the recepient’s name on Friday after all the names are in.

It starts…. NOW! and will close out at 11:59 PM Louisiana Time 4/29/2010.

Regardless of your skills, talents, abilities.  Each of us has the option everyday, in some small way, to pay it forward.  A smile, a wink, a thumb’s up – any little ol’ thing can be huge, you just never know.  Let’s make this day amazing by showing ourselves and our fellow humans just how truly ONE we all are!

Yes, I am a dancer.  I live it, breathe it, do it, dream it every day, but sometimes the greatest reason to dance is for no reason we can see or name.  Sometimes, it’s good to dance just because we can.  Whatever your condition, whatever your inclinations, I invite you to dance this week, even if it is only in your head.

Shamsi’s world of dance…. for the last week of April and May 1, 2010:

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Type: Music/Arts – Performance

Date: Friday, April 30, 2010

Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Location: Arzi’s Restaurant

Street: 5219 Government Street, Baton Rouge, LA

Kind of like Cheers, but with hummus.

Every Friday, see local bellydancers in amazing feats of musicality and technique as they stir up emotions, fun, and maybe lil’ bit of Lebanese tea too

Kid friendly, casual dining with great food.

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Music/Arts – Performance

Date: Saturday, May 1, 2010

Time: 12:30pm – 1:15pm

Location: Fest For All – Downtown Baton Rouge (3rd Street Stage!)

Blue Lotus Society: World Fusion Music and Dance Collective

We will be on the 3rd Street Stage this year…. oooo the sun won’t be completely baking us!

http://www.artsbr.org/

About

A Baton Rouge tradition, this artfully fun and family friendly art festival is an exciting art buying opportunity! Celebrate the arts while shopping the original artwork of 80 local and national juried artists. The festival features an exceptional representation of fine arts and crafts, along with artist demonstrations, kid’s art activities in Children’s Village, live music from blues to classical, performing arts, and a variety of Louisiana cuisines.

Located in downtown Baton Rouge, FestForAll is dispersed along historic oak-lined North Boulevard providing one of the most beautiful settings in the South for a weekend outdoor arts celebration.

History

FestForAll has a distinguished 30-year history garnering a reputation as one of Louisiana’s premier arts events attended by thousands. FestForAll was begun in 1974, at the request of the Mayor’s office, to celebrate our community’s cultural diversity through the arts. In 2003 after a brief hiatus and in response to public demand, this most popular Baton Rouge festival returned under the direction of the original presenter, the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge.

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Music/Arts – Jam Session

Date: Saturday, May 1, 2010

Time: 5:00pm – 7:00pm

Location: Crescent Lotus Dance Studio

Street: 3143 Calhoun Street, New Orleans, LA

Krys and Shamsi will be hosting a Whirling and Chanting Sema for Healing at Crescent Lotus Dance Studio (3143 Calhoun St., NOLA/ www.crescentlotus.com). There is no cost for this.

Whirling and chanting are two healing traditions within Sufism and they are accessible to all peoples for grounding and healing. Detailed instructions within a safe and supportive environment will be provided at the opening of this session. Ample time will be given for all to whirl. NOTE: Studio doors will be locked at 5:20pm. Please do not be late.

Please bring a sweater or blanket as whirling can make you want something to snuggle with when you are done and chanting is often nice when wrapped up in warmth. Attire should be comfortable and unbinding. Full skirts are great but not necessary. You may also want to bring water and if you would like to bring fruit or chocolate to share, even better. While we will officially end the session as close to 7:30 as possible, there will be no rush to vacate the studio.

If you know of anyone who may find this remembrance option to be a healing one, please pass along the info.

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Shyne Like a Star Virtual Dance Party – Via Jamie Ridler

 Let’s dance!

I’m so glad you’re here.

I believe that dance is for everybody,

that our bodies & souls long to dance!

And so each year on May 1st, I invite the world to dance for 15 minutes. Take 15 minutes of your day, turn the music up and get your groove on.

Dance while no one’s looking.

Dance with your honey in the kitchen.

Dance while you wait for the bus.

Dance with your cat.

Dance at your meeting.

Dance while you make your tea.

Dance with all your heart.

And wherever you are, know that we are all dancing together!

Let the party begin!

Don’t know what today is?  It’s just Tuesday.  It also happens to be my Mother’s birthday (and the birthday of more than several friends) and yesterday was my paternal Grandmother’s 101st birthday <–her trick has been not living on this plane of reality for the last 40 years or so.  I believe she just crosses back and forth through the door and is really just ‘hanging out’ on this side.

So, for me, this is a big day.  No, it’s not my birthday, but I feel there are so many people in my life whose birthdays’ make them Pisces that I would likely not be the person I am today without any or even all of them.

To mark this auspicious time, for the next two days (March 9^th and March 10^th until 9PM CST) I will give one question readings via email, for free.

What is a ‘reading’ you ask?  A reading is a space in which the reader (me in this case) is allowed access to the questioner’s current state of being, their guides and guardians.  During that time, if there is a specific question, answers are given regarding the question.  Or, if one simply wishes to have a bit of clarification about their current situation, they might ask, “What do I need to know most at this time?”

That is it, my gift to the world at large.  One question per person emailed to shamsi@shamsidances.com.  If you should have any questions regarding this service, the process, etc, please feel free to post here or send an email.  Please allow up to 24 hours to receive your reading.

In Service~

♥~Shamsi