May Day-May Day

Not a celebration in sight. We should be screaming “help.” What happened to the May Pole? The ribald spring rites of procreation, and consecration of the land? In the power of celebration lies community. In the haunting sounds of shared laughter, we remain connected. In the primitive power of the circle, implicit in chant, song & dance, we reach out to embrace one another. Where have all ‘those flowers’ gone? Long time passing. When will we ever learn? When shall we re-seed May Day once again?

Unortunately, we have come to view celebrations only as large, special occasions, costing time, energy and money. But if we hold to the original intent of the word, ‘celebrate,’ from the Latin root meaning, ‘frequent,’ celebrations can be created at a moment’s notice in order to take note of the grandeur in everyday life. The Balinese consecrate small pieces of each and every day as an invitation to ritual Put on your celebration costume, and nurture with the daily bread of beauty and ritual.

When complexities and concerns overwhelm, nothing lifts spirit or nourishes soul like a heartfelt celebration, small or big. Perhaps we should categorize them? ‘Petites’ for the garden variety, such as creating a tea ceremony, or taking time to appreciate and grow a friendship. Then we have the large, abundant variety, like Solstice gatherings, full of ritual, Yoga, chanting, drumming, fire, strangers, and other animals. When complexities and concerns overwhelm, nothing lifts spirit or nourishes soul like a heartfelt celebration, small or big. Whenever we choose, we can invite ourself to life’s banquet, a table where Spirit serves ritual.

Asana: Eka Pada Sirsasana, One Leg Behind the Head Pose. If you can do this pose, you have big reason to celebrate, and if you can’t, celebrate the fact you are showing up to try. Sit with legs extended, pulling L foot in toward head. Grab the ankle, duck the head, and bend torso slightly forward as you exhale. Place the L ankle on the back of the neck, and lift the torso. Try to keep the R leg on the floor. Place palms together and give a great “haroooo” for your effort.

Health Notes: The pose makes neck and back stronger, increases hamstring and hip agility, and aid in abdominal and digestive powers.