May at Heart Center

Monthly Wisdom Update

Seeing the Ox

Dear Community,

For 10 years I've been gathering communities in circles. In all honesty, I am fascinated by real-time, unedited humans. I am in awe of how we attract and repel; of how we differ and how we are the same. I am curious about the ways we show up, consciously and unconsciously. Why Buddhism for context within our way of the circle? Because at its deepest level, Buddhist practice is not primarily about improving our lives, or getting better at anything. Simpler yet, it is our life. It’s about being completely who we are, where we are, when we are and all on the spot. For me, these teachings and embodied practices have validated that life is an invitation to live in raw devotion instead of performance.

A spiritual journey and its investigative process is entirely personal. What's next in our practice? What should we work on or who should we work with? No one can answer these questions for us. I cannot say with real accuracy what it is for you to be completely who you are, and vice versa. We can recognize a sense of enlightened ease and authenticity in each other, but that’s only after the fact. I don’t know with any real accuracy what’s keeping you from being completely here, completely now. I may be able to guess, but truly only you can find out. The tools, teachings and practices facilitate this process of personal discovery, but mastering them is not the point. That would be like someone in martial arts memorizing all the proper forms but lacking the integration and spirit to embody them and make them effective when necessary.

Buddhism can seem frustratingly simple: we are given the ideal of basic goodness (an innately noble heart of loving-kindness, compassion, empathy and joy), and a set of tools that will help us realize that goodness. Then, from the moment we begin conscious practice to the moment we achieve perfect enlightenment, it’s completely up to us. Anytime we wonder what to do next, we have to ask ourselves what is still standing in the way of our manifesting basic goodness. What drains us or keeps us stuck? What continues to make us angry, anxious or depressed? What keeps us from practicing generosity the way we aspire to? What keeps us from appreciating the simple fullness of this moment? The list of such questions goes on, infinitely... one obstacle to our enlightenment emerging after another, we learn to turn toward it and practice with it.

This practice itself is also not linear; it's living, breathing and dynamic which makes development or progress not so obvious. It's subtle and intimate in the way it entangles within our lives and relationships. It seeps into the layers of our being: body, energies, mind, intuition and consciousness. Perception and perspective, personal and universal, up close and far away, micro and macro... We have enough human data that we can observe landmarks on the greater map of our individual and collective lives. For this reason, we are studying the gorgeous *Zen Ox-Herding images and verses which are just one of many depictions of the spiritual path.

At the onset, we might feel called to investigate this life to see what more there is to it. We might begin to inquire whether there is another way - a way to live more freely, with more authenticity and more energy. What is it that we are seeking? We aren't quite sure. All we know is that we have a sense of separateness, loss or of feeling incomplete and we can't help but want to get up and out to find some clarity. We search, without a clue as to what the thing we seek looks like or whether it even really exists. With wholehearted determination and a little help from the universe, we stumble upon some very real and experiential evidence that the object of our search does actually exist. We gain some motivation and insight of how we might find it but not without an oscillation of enthusiasm and doubt, confidence and apathy. It's exhilarating to find traces and it's easy to fall into skepticism, retreating back to what is familiar, even if what's known is increasingly uncomfortable.

Then a flash of insight. A direct experience that, to us, makes all the difference and penetrates on a cellular level. It's beyond words; we can't quite describe it despite trying. There's a shift, a new view - it may be that a habit dissolves or sets us free in some way. We've changed and our intuition around the truth can become so strong that we are moved to tears. The third landmark on the path presents us with an unshakable affirming nod that we are going the right way. Progressing this far, we gain determination and patience that we did not have prior. We are willing to practice more diligently and with greater enthusiasm. We are ready to ask harder questions to motivate toward more difficult truths – without demanding immediate pay-off (most of the time).

Intellect isn't enough. These teachings come to life through our lives and via our intimate way of the circle. Presence, space holding, listening, sharing, emoting... practicing. It's a beautiful thing that sparks real hope. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

In reverence,

Meg Lucks

El Getsu Endō | "Brilliant Moon, Way of the Circle"

Lay-Ordained, Abiding Guide

The Heart Revival Center for Yoga

*March through December we look to the Buddhist Ox-Herding images and their corresponding verses as an artistic illustration of the student on the path. While we will look at them 1 through 10, it's important to note that they are not linear nor hierarchical. They are helpers in our active practice of listening to the heart. We can gaze upon an image or hear the poetic lines and compare them to our lived experiences, with the intention to expand from a narrow mind to a limitless beginner's mind. In the spirit of for now, we can practice taking up what helps and letting go of what does not. We can practice listening to each other, holding space as a living, breathing dynamic, instead of fueling beliefs and patterns that divide, compare and diminish. My intention for our community is to create the ecology (container, context and content) for inner seeing and empowerment to come alive and ultimately bridge the gap between spiritual practice and daily life. www.theheartrevival.com/news

Intro to Boundaries, Protections + Self-Care

Friday, May 2nd, 6-8:30pm with Jerry Becker + Gino Napolitano

Jerry's treasured Boundaries, Protections and Self-Care 3-part series is returning in May! Interested in learning more before committing to the full class? Attend an information session to get a feel! Full BPSC Series dates: 3 Fridays May 9, 16 + 23, 6:30-9pm.

Exchange: $15, Register HERE

For the Love of Mother: Guided Forest Therapy + Herb Talk

Saturday, May 3rd, 10:30-1:30pm with Gwen Ripp + Jenny Rey

We will explore our relationship to Mother Earth and the human mother — realigning value, love and nourishment to both. This intimate gathering weaves together guided Forest Therapy and herbalism offering a moment of slowness, presence and support. Come for a moment of rest and rejuvenation, to learn how to support the mothers and caregivers in your life or to connect with yourself and community. We welcome you to join us if you are a mother, curious about how to offer more support to a mother or caregiver in your life, or to honor all life-givers and nurtures. To honor mother earth is to honor ourselves.

Exchange is sliding-scale $55-75, Register HERE

Yoga + Reflexology

Sunday, May 4th, 2-3:30pm with Jody Friedenberger + Susan Walsh

Prioritize yourself in the new year with Heart guide Jody and our in-house Reflexologist Susan for a 90 minute grounding Hatha/Restore Yoga practice, combined with reflexology techniques, to provide a deeper sense of harmony and healing within. The hands and feet are said to be maps of our entire body. Reflexology involves massaging specific reflex points on the feet to uncover pain patterns and target healing within the body. Yoga and reflexology complement one another as they both seek to cultivate a connection and healing within the mind-body while also boosting the immune system and alleviating common chronic conditions.

Exchange is $38, Register HERE

Monthly Self-Healer Circle with Gino Napolitano + Olivia Flood

Every 1st Tuesday, May 6th, 7:15-8:15pm

Join Gino and Olivia on the first Tuesday of each month for a guided journey into the subtle layers of body, mind, and spirit. Through exploration of self-healing practices, group discussion, and awareness exercises, you’ll cultivate a deeper connection with yourself and gain insight into the intricacies of being human. Each month, Gino and Olivia will introduce healing practices designed to illuminate the subtle energies within and around you. By bridging the material and spiritual aspects of healing, this circle offers an accessible and empowering space to awaken your innate ability to heal.

Exchange: Slide-scale, Register HERE

Boundaries, Protections and Self-Care 3-Part Course

3 consecutive Fridays, May 9, 16, 23rd with Jerry & Gino

Are you sensitive to the energies around you? Do you pick up on “vibes” from people? Would you describe yourself as a very empathetic person? Then this class might be for you! Take a journey into your energetic field - learn personal self-care techniques that can assist you on the physical, emotional, mental & spiritual levels. Learn about and develop your personal boundaries, ethics, grounding practices, and enhancing sensitivity to your own and others energy. Start the journey toward developing good energy habits, personal clearing and protections and clearing/working with subtle bodies. We will look at and discuss chakras, how to create energetic boundaries, and how to stay rooted and grounded in a heart-centered space. All of which are oh so pertinent and needed as more and more people are starting to notice that things on this planet are indeed shifting. Attendees must be present at all 3 classes.

Exchange: 3-Part course total $175, Register HERE

Awaken Your Senses: Sound, Movement + optional Hapé

Saturday, May 10th, 5-7:30pm with Jody Friedenberger + Laurel Ziemienski

Join us for a 90-minute workshop to celebrate the incoming Summer Solstice and deepen your connection to self and your inner power. This experience begins with gentle Hatha/Restore yoga to open the body and release what no longer serves you, followed by a 45-minute sound bath savasana led by Laurel Ziemienski of Ananda Healing Arts. As you rest, you'll be immersed in the sacred vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, harps, chimes, and drums, guiding you to your highest potential. Optional: Arrive early for a hapé ceremony. This traditional Amazonian medicine aids in spiritual connection, emotional balance and physical healing. It’s administered through the nasal passages with a pipe (all is guided by Laurel). The ceremony is an additional $30, paid separately on-site.

Exchange is $38 + optional hapé $30, Register HERE

May Community Crafternoons: Felt Hearts + Compassionate Card Making

Sundays, May 11th and 25th, 1:30-3:30pm

Prioritize joy, creativity and community through craft at Heart Center! Each time we meet, artists and makers, Mickey Thiry and special guests will provide an organized craft. Sessions include an opening circle and meditation, followed by demonstration/ explanation of the focused craft/ activity. Most of our time is dedicated to working at community tables with open space to craft and chat. The last portion of the time is dedicated to closing. We will share projects + anything that came up during the session. We close with a bow and a collective breath. Full description in MindBody!

Exchange is $15+, Register HERE

Mindful Community Interfaith Circle

Every 2nd Tuesday, May 13th, 7:15pm with Heidi Nehring

Join us to explore the redefining of relationship with Spirit, through meditation and community connection. In these sessions we explore the obstacles and barriers that may hinder us from having a greater connection with Spirit or Source. All faiths and practices are encouraged to attend as we walk through an exploration of what separates and what binds. Let us ask what it means to find common ground and to love one another.

Exchange: Pay-as-you-wish, Register HERE

Bi-Monthly Wisdom Wind Down Restore

Friday May 16th, 4-5pm with derria byrd - last of the season!

The truth of yoga is what happens beyond the mat. Cultivate your inner light through guided asana (postures), pranayama (breath), and meditation (focus) in this end-of-the-week class designed to help you shake off the tethers from the week and reconnect to your true wisdom. This hatha yoga class focuses on yogic intention and bodily alignment alongside the invitation to stillness and rest. Each class includes teachings on how to nourish your internal wisdom and nurture "an undefended heart,” in pursuit of liberation (moksha) for all beings.

Exchange: Any class pass, Register HERE

Mantra + Movement

Saturday, May 17th, 10:30-12pm with Mickey Thiry

Our weekly fave is not an extended workshop offering! Students can anticipate a deeply integrated class, to include: meditation, pranayama, gentle hatha-vinyasa style practice, chanting in held poses, and an opportunity to slow down. Mantra is not about singing perfectly; allow the practice to feel liberating as there is no need for perfection here, there is no judgement, there is only curiosity and a compassionate wish to heal ourselves and our community with the vibrations of our voices. All practices offered are an invitation. All beings, voices and backgrounds, are most welcome.

Exchange: $38, Register HERE

Up next: Saturday, June 7th, 10:30-12pm

Stepping Stones: Immersive Meditation + Writing Workshop

Saturday, May 17th, 2-4pm with Heidi Nehring

Writing is a meditative discourse in response to what is for spiritual freedom and movement. It’s a liberating practice to declutter and uncover the source and divine beingness within. It’s a way of shedding what no longer serves and meeting ourselves more intimately and compassionately within our living experiences. Join Heidi Nehring (author and ERYT-200 yoga instructor) as she guides you through a contemplative meditative writing experience to purify the mind and heart, including pranayama, traditional walking meditation (outside) and personal reflection.

Exchange: $45, Register HERE

Yin & Blues: A Daoist's Dream

Sunday, May 18th, 2-3:30pm with Sean French

Step into a daoist's dream! Join physical therapist, Reiki practitioner and yoga instructor, Sean French, for this creative and regenerative workshop that combines a Yin yoga approach with traditional blues music, to open your hips and invigorate your soul. After the yin practice, attendees will experience a guided awakening meditation and lastly, settle in for a long rest in savasana where you can opt to receive grounding vetiver oil on your feet.

Exchange: $38, Register HERE

Mindful Community Men's Circle

Every 3rd Tuesday, May 20th, 7:30pm with Ron Moore

This circle is intended to be a safe space for men (he/they - whomever identifies in this space) to listen and share alongside one another in an accepting community. Everyone is invited to introduce themselves and the facilitator will share an introductory grounding experience, a brief support teaching that corresponds to the monthly wisdom teachings, plus a guided mindfulness meditation. Our remaining time will be spent in community discussion and connection. All paths are welcome and all people are encouraged to attend.

Exchange: Pay-as-you-wish, Register HERE

Nejang Kriya + Meditation: Tibetan Healing Yoga

Saturday, May 24th, 10:15-11am with Vanessa Weber

Join us for the ancient practice of Nejang. This seated healing yoga consists of 24 simple physical exercises which use breath work, self-massage, and meditative concentration addressing body and mind as a whole. Benefits include opening and purifying energy channels, balancing subtle energies of the body, relaxing the mind, and nourishing the inner organs. Such exercises have been prescribed by Tibetan physicians for centuries to improve health and vitality and to support spiritual practice. Nejang is a valuable and complementary practice for all yogis.

Exchange: Pay-as-you-wish, Register HERE

Up next: June 14th, 10:15-11am

Art + Heart: 2-Part Ceramic Tealight Houses

2 consecutive Saturdays, May 24th + 31st, 4-6pm

We spark realization through embodiment! Join the Heart sangha for regular art classes with passionate makers and artists! Each series set (2 classes, Saturday May 10 and 24) will shift and change media and motivation! May spotlights the ceramic arts! Learn the basics of working with air dry clay to create a ceramic house that can be brought home to house tealight candles or incense cones.

Exchange is $50, Register HERE

Community Song Circle

Friday, May 30th, 6:30-8pm with Lisa Maxfield

"If you can talk, you can sing!"-Zimbabwean Proverb. Singing has been used as effective medicine for body, soul and community in many cultures throughout human history. The act of singing calls us to connect with our body, our breath, our ability to listen and our ability to feel. The voice is our most personal instrument. Whenever we show up, in vulnerability, to use it, we affirm our own agency to express and to respond. Through singing uplifting mantras, chant, hymns and heart songs, we will co-create an experience where every voice is heard, honored, respected, loved and empowered. This is a safe space where all are welcome. Come as you are. No prior singing experience is needed! If you have any percussive instruments (drums, shakers etc) please feel free to bring them!

Exchange: $15+, Register HERE

Steeped in Love: Communing with the Spirit of Tea

Saturday, May 31st, 10:30-12pm with Olivia Flood

Join Olivia Flood of The Awakened Alchemy for an immersive and heart-opening journey with Tea. In this grounding tea ceremony, you’ll be invited to soften inward and connect deeply with the spirit of tea as a sacred plant ally. Held in intentional space, this ceremony honors the ancient wisdom and gentle medicine that tea offers when approached with reverence and love. Together, we’ll explore what it means to truly commune with tea—listening, receiving, and opening to her subtle guidance. Before entering into ceremony, you’ll be guided through meditation, breathwork, and other awareness practices to help attune your body and spirit, allowing you to fully receive the medicine of Tea.

Exchange is $38, Register HERE

Upcoming Community Crafternoons: Henna Tattooing

Sundays, June 1st, 1:30-3:30pm

We prioritize joy! In this class, we will explore henna tattooing, using this ancient art form to cultivate mindfulness. Each intricate design becomes a meditation, reminding us of the transient nature of life and interconectedness of all beings. We will explore the basics of henna application and design and create a unique henna design with intention and presence. You'll gain a new artistic skill and a deeper understanding of how creativity can foster mindfulness and compassion.

Exchange is $15+, Register HERE

Sunday, June 15th, 1:30-3:30pm Dream Catchers

Candlelit Yoga + Sound Bath

Saturday, June 7th, 5-6:30pm with Megan Lang Roder

All are welcome to slow down and nourish your mind, body, and soul with our Candlelit Yoga and Sound Bath, led by Megan Lang Roder. You will be guided through a refreshing experience that nurtures all five senses. We will gather in a community circle to drink tea, meditate with essential oil, move gently through a restorative flow with plenty of props, and find deep rest with a tranquil sound bath meditation including wind chimes and crystal singing bowls.

Exchange is $38+, Register HERE

Energy Healing Cancer Care Protocols

Saturday, June 14th, 1-5pm with Jerry Becker

This workshop is for caregivers, family members and supporters of cancer patients. Become empowered with energy healing methods to help symptoms of cancer and its treatment. Included in this workshop are self-care methods that may reduce fatigue, burn out and stress by those administering the care. 

As a person who has a cancer patient in their life there, is nothing so difficult as feeling as if there isn’t anything you can do to help. BUT YOU CAN with Healing Touch and Ayurvedic Energy Healing. This 4-hour experience will include giving and receiving the techniques to aid in: -Pain and Stress reduction, -Ease from chemo and radiation treatments, -Methods to balance and revitalize patients. We ask that folks make a very specific donation once registered for this class. More information to be delivered once you register. Note that space is very limited for this opportunity!

Exchange: Sherry Palmer Klemish HTPA Scholarship Fund , Register HERE

Summer Sol: Asana + Nidra Karma Class

Friday, June 20th, 6:30-7:45pm with Jess Kettner

Celebrate the "longest" day of the year with a practice that basks in the warmth of summer. Gentle movement followed by a Yoga Nidra practice will honor the summer season with abundance and nourishment.nAttendees may pay as they wish! All proceeds will be gifted to a community organization in need - stay tuned for more information!  

Exchange is pay-as-you-wish, Register HERE