CommUniversal SemAntixX

my heart was touched..

ton-ton — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 05:54:32 GMT

Last weekend i attended my first Harmony Festival in Santa Rosa, practically in my backyard. It awakened and affected me in wonderful surprising ways. At LIB i recognized the importance of representing who i am, being there and sharing what we have and what we've learned. At Harmony i witnessed true community building in action. Opening of doors, sharing knowledge and fueling the revolution with love, knowledge and intent. We are leaders of the way, bearers of the light and our arms and hearts are wide open. The festivals have become so much more than a party. Sunday night at Harmony, the after party in the pavilion blew my mind. There was a benefit for Tibet that cost an extra $20 to attend..which was great because it kept all the rif raff away. The superchill lineup was amazing, including Shimshai, Tina Melia, Cheb I Sabba..a few others which i'm spacing on..but most profound was a Tibetan Nun named Yungchen Llamo. She is the voice of Tibet. Her story is incredible, she escaped to India, was shot at and hunted by the Chinese. When the Dali Lama heard her songs and voice, he said yes, you are the voice of Tibet. I understood why i was there, why we all were. This was big. I had the most profound, spiritualized WOW experience i have had in this life. She sang to my soul..she had us all singing across many many lifetimes. I am attuned, healed and awakened. I am still feeling it. I always will. Aumm.. The martial arts and yoga's that i study are from Burma. I am taking a proactive role in bringing aid and awareness to human rights in Burma (Myanmar) and I pledge a third of all my profits from my yoga and martial arts projects to refugees of Burma and Tibet. On another note.. This weekend i conected with and touched many many friends, old and new. There's one person who made my big happy heart go flitter flatter flutter and i really really want to find her. Does anybody know how to get in touch with Phoenix, the beautiful tattooed scorpio priestess goddess? if you do..ooh sweet goody yayy yo!..hook a brotha up! super big LOVE to all YOU! In eternal grace and inspiration. -tt on & on

bearing witness..

ton-ton — Thu, 29 May 2008 19:07:26 GMT

at lib i got bear witness to the shift to see those around us rising up, moving into their power and supporting each other while opening doors to the greater community being there to share what we do amazing how far we've come..and the path, process and coming challenges we are facing are very attainable, we're doing it now! our magick is very very powerful and our community is stepping in, stepping up and flourishing wildly i am in love in grace and inspiration

this is my favorite song right now!

ton-ton — Tue, 06 May 2008 02:04:10 GMT

a friend of mine and his band the Perfs made a hilarious video for you tube for a song they wrote called yOko Ono http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uMIuyD427sA check it out.. enjoy..it's catchy!

Kshatriya Warrior Yoga

ton-ton — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 20:25:47 GMT

this ain't your mamma's yoga! This is yoga of the king and warrior caste of Northern India, Burma and Tibet. Integrating warrior tradition with breath and movement this yoga is athletic, powerful and fun. Kshatriya Yoga teaches practical muscle memory while providing a safe creative space for you to cultivate your inner warrior. Rooted in Hatha yoga the Kshatriya asana (postures) are assisted using the staff (dhanda) and rope (longhi). Sunday's 11 AM Yoga Studio Ganesha $15 ALSO: Saturday's 11 AM Sebastopol Plaza..across from Whole Foods Please join me in sharing Dhanda Yoga with the beautiful Sebastopol community. Class is open to everyone from beginers to advanced and is on a donation basis. Bring your friends and family..it's gonna be fun and feel great! Dhanda Yoga uses a staff to assist the practitioner through flowing sets of Asana. Dhanda Yoga is an ancient Burmese tradition linked to the servant and warrior caste. Dhanda is the yogic symbol for the human spine through which Prana flows. We will be doing this every Saturday, weather permitting.

Saturday Dhanda Yoga in the Sebastopol Park

ton-ton — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 02:21:34 GMT

Saturday's 11 AM..across from Whole Foods Please join me in sharing Dhanda Yoga with the beautiful Sebastopol community. Class is open to everyone from beginers to advanced and is on a donation basis. Bring your friends and family..it's gonna be fun and feel great! In Sanskrit, "dhanda" means stick or staff. Dhanda Yoga uses a staff to assist the practitioner through flowing sets of Asana. Dhanda Yoga is an ancient Burmese tradition linked to the servant and warrior caste. Dhanda is the yogic symbol for the human spine through which Prana flows. We will be doing this every Saturday, weather permitting.

Big Cat Medicine

ton-ton — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 01:20:26 GMT

Today was an amazing day. I recently relocated to a beautiful ranch 10 miles west of Sebastopol, we call it Madame Bijou's Ranch. Our landlord has over 200 hundred acres here, we are sooo blessed! The property is nothing short of epic. It's a few miles from the ocean, hilly and set deep in the redwood forests. There are cows, sheep, a llama, horses, wild turkeys, falcons, coyotes and turkey buzzards abundant..as well as a few mountain lions and bobcats, so i found. Oh yes, and then there's Madame Bijou, a large, beautiful 2 year old black and white Great Dane, who's home i am guest. Since i moved here i have been taking hikes on this wonderous land almost daily. I've also been planting gardens, creating composts and really really grooving on the simple life. Today before my hike i got on tribe, fooled around..i clicked on Bobcat and Daisy's profile, looking for a new friend Prshanti and i ended up clicking on and joining a tribe dedicated to the jaguar and other large cats. I was calling in cat medicine, unconsciously. I'm a mission oriented type of person, whether i hike, breathe, pray or play, i do it with intention. Today my intention was simply to find a rock. So Madame Bijou and i set out to find this rock. We hike over hills, into the forest, across streams and up into pastures where there are herds of cow graising. I've been working on communication and training of Bijou when on the pastures because she gets a real thrill chasing cows and the llama..which is amazing to watch, but upsetting to the animals. So after she got bored with being disiplined she went on a chase! Many yells and laughs later she comes back winded and proud. So i decide that we're going to walk the fence line back down to the gate, rather than cutting across the pasture, where she might hassle more cattle. As we're hiking down with fence to our right, we come upon a steep downward slope..old redwood remains scattered about, the bark jutting up out of the ground like stalagtites. It looked feral and ancient. To the left was a patch of redwoods creating a little forest grotto on the pasture hill. Bijou bounds down the steep hill ahead of me, excited and happy. As i'm making my way down the slope, i pass next to the forest grotto and suddenly i hear the loud roar of a large cat. It crept me out deep and primal, and i immediately drew my kukhri. Looking into the woods, i couldn't see it ..but i knew it could see me and it was upset that i was so close. I had to back away, stepping backwards down a steep hill, knife in hand and admittedley scared. Fortunately, Bijou was down the hill, down wind and had no idea what i had just dealt with. On the way back home, crossing a stream, i found the rock i was looking for. Later i found out that the landlord has been hunting and trying to find the bobcats that have been hassling them. I'll never tell.

Department of Peace

ton-ton — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 16:29:28 GMT

Heaven On Mother Earth-HOME. On June 9, 2002, Congressman Dennis Kucinich, from Ohio, gave a speech at the Praxis Peace Institute Conference in Dubrovnik, Croatia. His amazing message is even more important today. In the face of the challenges facing the United States of America and this precious planet, we should all take this message into the deepest recesses of our hearts and respond according to our Inner Guidance. Please, open your heart and allow the words of this profound speech to resonate in the deepest recesses of your Being. Spirit and Stardust by U.S. Representative Dennis Kucinich As one studies the images of the Eagle Nebula, brought back by the Hubble Telescope from that place in deep space where stars are born, one can imagine the interplay of Cosmic Forces across space and time, of matter and Spirit dancing to the music of the spheres atop an infinite sea of numbers. Spirit merges with matter to sanctify the Universe. Matter transcends to return to Spirit. The interchangeability of matter and Spirit means the starlit magic of the outermost life of our Universe becomes the soul-light magic of the innermost life of our self. The energy of the stars becomes us. We become the energy of the stars. Stardust and Spirit unite, and we begin: One with the Universe-whole and holy from One source, endless creative energy bursting forth, kinetic, elemental-we, the earth, air, water and fire, source of nearly fifteen billion years of Cosmic spiraling. We begin as a perfect union of matter and Spirit. We receive the blessings of the Eternal from sky and Earth. In our outstretched hands, we can feel the energy of the Universe. We receive the blessings of the Eternal from water, which nourishes and sanctifies life. We receive the blessings of the Eternal from the primal fire, the pulsating Heart of Creation. We experience the wonder of life, multidimensional and transcendent. We extend our hands upwards, and we are showered with abundance. We ask and we receive. A Universe of plenty flows to us, through us. It is in us. We become filled with endless possibilities. We need to remember where we came from, to know that we are One, to understand that we are of an undivided whole: race, color, nationality, creed, gender are beams of Light refracted through one great prism. We begin as perfect and journey through life to become more perfect in the singularity of 'I' and in the multiplicity of 'we,' a more perfect union of matter and Spirit. This is human striving. This is where, in Shelley's words, '. . . hope creates from its own wreck the thing it contemplates.' This is what Browning spoke of, our 'reach exceeding our grasp.' This is a search for Heaven within, a quest for our eternal Home. In our souls' Magnificent, we become conscious of the Cosmos within us. We hear the music of peace; we hear the music of cooperation; we hear music of love. We hear harmony, a celestial symphony in our souls' forgetting; we become unconscious of our Cosmic Birthright, plighted with disharmony, disunity, torn asunder from the stars in a disaster well described by Matthew Arnold in Dover Beach: '. . . the world, which seems to lie before us like a land of dreams, so various, so beautiful, so new, hath really neither joy, nor love, nor Light, nor certitude, nor peace, nor help for pain. And we are here, as on a darkling plane, swept with confused alarms of struggle and flight where ignorant armies clash by night.' Today Dover Beach is upon the shores of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. Our leaders think the unthinkable and speak of the unspeakable inevitability of nuclear war, of a nuclear attack on New York City, of terrorist attacks throughout our nation, of war against Iraq using nuclear weapons, of biological and chemical weapon attacks on civilian populations, of catastrophic global climate change, of war in outer space. When death, not life, becomes inevitable, we are presented with an opportunity for great clarity, for a great awakening, to rescue the human spirit from the arms of Morpheus through love, through compassion and through integrating spiritual vision and active citizenship to restore peace to our world. The moment that one world is about to end, a New World is about to begin. We need to remember where we came from because the path HOME is also the way to the future. In Ohio, the city I represent in the United States Congress, there is a memorial to Peace, named by its sculptor, Marshall A. Fredericks, the 'Fountain of Eternal Life.' A figure rises from the flames, his gaze fixed to the stars, his hands positioned sextant-like as if measuring the distance. Though flames of war from the millions of hearts and the dozens of places wherein it rages may lick at our consciousness, our gaze must be fixed upward to invoke universal principles of unity, of cooperation, of compassion, to infuse our world with peace, to ask for the active Presence of Peace, to expand our capacity to receive it and to express it in our everyday life. We must do this fearlessly and courageously and not breathe in the poison gas of terror. As we receive, so shall we give. As citizen-diplomats of the world, we send Peace as conscious expression wherever, whenever and to whomever it is needed: to the Middle East, to the Israelis and the Palestinians, to the Pakistanis and the Indians, to Americans and to al-Qaida and to the people of lraq and to all those locked in deadly combat. And we fly to be with the bereft, with those on the brink, to listen compassionately, setting aside judgment and malice to become peacemakers, to intervene, to mediate, to bring ourselves back from the abyss, to bind up the world's wounds. As we aspire to universal brotherhood and sisterhood, we hearken to the cry from the heart of the world and respond affirmatively to address through thought, word and deed conditions which give rise to conflict: economic exploitation, empire building, political oppression, religious intolerance, poverty, disease, famine, homelessness, struggles over control of water, land, minerals and oil. We realize that what affects anyone anywhere affects everyone everywhere. As we help others to heal, we heal ourselves. Our vision of interconnectedness resonates with new networks of world citizens in non-governmental organizations linking from numberless centers of energy, expressing the emergence of a new organic whole, seeking unity within and across national lines. New transnational, web-based e-mail and telecommunications systems transcend governments and carry within them the power of qualitative transformation of social and political structures and a new sense of creative intelligence. If governments and their leaders, bound by hierarchy and patriarchy, wedded to military might for legitimacy, fail to grasp the implications of an emerging world consciousness for cooperation, for peace and for sustainability, they may become irrelevant. As citizen-activists merge the world over, they can become an irresistible force to create Peace and protect the planet. From here will come a new movement to abolish nuclear weapons and all weapons of mass destruction. From here will come the demand for sustainable communities, for new systems of energy, transportation and commerce. From here comes the future rushing in on us. How does one acquire the capacity for active citizenship? The opportunities exist everyday. In Cleveland, citizens have developed the ability to intercede when schools are scheduled to be closed and have kept the schools open. Citizens can rally to keep hospitals open, to save industries which provide jobs, to protect neighborhood libraries from curtailment of service, to improve community policing, to meet racial, ethnic and religious intolerance openly and directly. Active citizenship begins with an envisioning of the desired outcome and a conscious application of spiritual principles. I know. I have worked with the people in my own community. I have seen the dynamic of faith in self, faith in one's ability to change things, faith in one's ability to prevail against the odds through an appeal to the Spirit of the world for help, through an appeal to the Spirit of community for participation, through an appeal to the Spirit of cooperation which multiplies energy. I have seen citizens challenge conditions without condemning anyone while invoking principles of nonopposition and inclusion of those who disagree. I have seen groups of people overcome incredible odds, as they become aware they are participating in a cause beyond self and sense the movement of the inexorable, which comes from unity. When you feel this principle at work, when you see spiritual principles form the basis of active citizenship, you are reminded once again of the merging of Stardust and Spirit. There is creativity. There is magic. There is alchemy. Citizens across the United States are now uniting in a great cause to establish a Department of Peace, seeking nothing less than the transformation of our society, to make nonviolence an organizing principle, to make war archaic through creating a paradigm shift in our culture for human development, for economic and political justice and for violence control. Its work in violence control will be to support disarmament treaties, peaceful coexistence and peaceful consensus building. Its focus on economic and political justice will examine and enhance resource distribution, human and economic rights and strengthen democratic values. Domestically, the Department of Peace would address violence in the home, spousal abuse, child abuse, gangs, police/community relations conflicts and work with individuals and groups to achieve changes in attitudes that examine the mythologies of cherished world views such as 'violence is inevitable' or 'war is inevitable.' Thus it will help with the discovery of new selves and new paths toward peaceful consensus. The Department of Peace will also address human development and the unique concerns of women and children. It will envision and seek to implement plans for Peace education, not simply as a course of study but as a template for all pursuits of knowledge within formal educational settings. Violence is NOT inevitable. War is NOT inevitable. Nonviolence and peace ARE inevitable. We can make of this world a gift of Peace, which will confirm the presence of universal Spirit in our lives. We can send into the future the gift, which will protect our children from fear, from harm, from destruction. Carved inside the pediment, which sits atop the marble columns, is a sentinel at the entrance to the United States House of Representatives. Standing resolutely inside this 'Apotheosis of Democracy' is a woman, a shield by her left side, with her outstretched right arm protecting a child happily sitting at her feet. This child holds the Lamp of Knowledge under the protection of this patroness. This wondrous sculpture by Paul Wayland Bartlett is titled 'Peace Protecting Genius.' Not with nuclear arms, but with a loving maternal arm is the knowing child genius shielded from harm. This is the promise of hope over fear. This is the promise of love, which overcomes all. This is the promise of faith, which overcomes doubt. This is the promise of Light, which overcomes darkness. This is the promise of Peace, which overcomes war. For more information on how you can participate in the Department of Peace, you may E-mail Representative Kucinich at: Dkucinich@aol.com or info@thespiritoffreedom.com Patricia Diane Cota-Robles New Age Study of Humanity's Purpose a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit educational organization Website: http://www.eraofpeace.org FAX: 520-751-2981; Phone: 520-885-7909 New Age Study of Humanity's Purpose PO Box 41883, Tucson, Arizona 85717 This article is copyrighted, but you have my permission to share it through any medium as long as the proper credit line is included. ©2008 Patricia Diane Cota-Robles The information in this monthly sharing is being given to Humanity by the Beings of Light in the Realms of Illumined Truth. The Divine Intent of this information is to encourage, empower, uplift and inspire all of us by allowing us to see the bigger picture during these wondrous but extremely challenging times. WEEKLY ON-LINE RADIO SHOW TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR LIFE Host Patricia Diane Cota-Robles Patricia also shares information from the Beings of Light on her radio show every week. These celestial sharings are being given to Humanity at this time to give Humanity greater clarity and understanding about the events occurring on Earth. The radio program airs Online every Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time or 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the website www.7thWaveNetwork.com This is a powerful opportunity for all of us to add to the Light of the world. Once the program has aired, it is available anytime, day or night, in the Content Library on Patricia's link on the 7th Wave Network website. As you listen to this on-line radio broadcast, know that you are joining in consciousness with Lightworkers all over the world who are listening to this program with you. Together, through our collective consciousness, we are cocreating a Chalice of Light that serves as an Open Door through which the Light of God is flowing to bless Humanity and all Life on this sweet Earth. -- I think they are almost here. I can feel my dreams catching up with me.... -Dreaming Bear Kanaan

Martial Skills of a Forest Monk

ton-ton — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 18:18:25 GMT

In the dense jungles of Burma, any form of threat - man or animal - was dealt with quickly and without hesitation. Delay meant death. Some would flee. Some would freeze and conceal. Some would charge and fight. Living and moving in trhe jungle needed special skills not to alarm or threaten the animals, birds, snakes, men or spirits. The writings of Paya Halin descibe the development of his martial skills during his 21 years of struggle in the jungle. The following martial systems derived from the villages of Talin in northern Tibet, Nazirah and Dibragha in northeastern India. Martial Skills of Paya Halin 1. Defensive Weopon Development a. Staffs, sticks, slings b. Stones, rocks or hardened clay c. Ropes, strings and vines 2. Defensive Strategy a. Defense Against Animals, Insects and Snakes b. Defense Against Man, individually, in groups, in ambush c. Defense Against Demon Spirits. Protection mudras and mantras, fire rituals and alliances with tribal Nat-Saya's (Shaman Spirits) 3. Rules of Defense a. Never Kill your Attacker/s (the tribe or villagers will take revenge at a later time) b. Help Heal the Injured Attacker/s (mend their bones, treat their cuts and bruises) c. Offer Friendship with Humility (friendship can help with your survival in the jungle) NOTE: In ancient times there were more than 200 isolated tribes living in the jungles and high mountain ranges of northern Burma. To escape from regional wars, many of these tribes had migrated from Mongolia, Tibet, northern India and southern China. They had their own unique histories, cultures, languages, customs and belief systems. 4. Defensive Throwing Techniques Throwing using the body and hands, sticks, staffs and ropes. The Throwing Defensive System derived from the village of Dibragha in northeastern India. 5. Defensive Tehniques with Staff (against men and animals) The forest monk staff was 5 to 6 feet long, strong and durable. It was made up of tightly knotted bamboo, root or ironwood. It could endure the weight of three men. It was used as a walking stick, meditation stick, lifting stick, carrying stick, climbing stick and other survival functions. In his writings, Paya Halin reported that he learned the staff systems from the village of Talin in southern Tibet. The Staff System (Lahti or Dhot) 1. Holding the staff (front, back and middle holds) 2. Thrusting with staff (6 point thrusts) 3. Striking with staff (6 strike points) 4. Blocking with staff (6 blocking pattern) 5. Trapping with staff (6 trapping techniques) 6. Tripping with staff (6 trip or lift methods) 6. Defensive Techniques with Ropes (against men and animals) The Rope Defensive Techniques derived from the Naga people from the village of Nazira located near the northern border region of India and Burma. 1. Swinging rope technique (similar to Chinese chain) 2. Whipping rope technique (similar to horse or cattle whip) 3. Tying rope technique (similar to Japanese knot making) 4. Throwing rope technique (similar to bolo throw) 5. Pulling rope technique (similar to horse or bull rein) 6. Tripping rope technique (similar to trip wire or trap) Paya Halin's writings are preserved at the Along monastery near the border regions of Burma, India and Tibet G. Rebuilding the Halin Monastery After his return, Paya Halin helped in rebuilding the Halin Monastery on a smaller scale. He later became the abbot of the monastery. He taught tolerance, openess, acceptance, charity, compassion, peace and non-violence. Many homeless, sick and injured people found refuge at the monastery. During his tenure the monastery was again destroyed by another invading force. The legend stated that Paya Halin and his monks died in the fire. H. The Song of Paya Halin (sung by the children of Along village of northeastern India and southeastern Tibet) Paya Halin! Paya Halin! Paya Halin! He wandered the jungle for twenty years He walked among the animals of the wild He talked to trees, hills and streams He lived on roots, fruits and flowers Protected by spirts of the foirest Guided by the Dharma of Budddha But killed in flames set by men from eastern hills Freed from the Wheel of Karma His spirit flows into the valley of Amarapura His compassion now lives in all of our hearts Paya Halin! Paya Halin! Paya Halin!

The Legend of His Holiness Paya Halin, the Story of the Forest Monk Martial Systems

ton-ton — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 21:21:39 GMT

The Legend of His Holiness Paya Halin, the Story of the Forest Monk Martial Systems as told by His Holiness the Venerable Homalin Sayadaw, Abbot of the Homalin Monastery, Burma 1921. Translated and Reorganized for Western Readers by Dr. M. Gyi, Chief Instructor American Bando Association. A. General Background Every major religous tradition has extensive records of monks, priests and holy men who ventured into the wilderness to find answers to the mysteries of life. Ancient Prophets In the judeo-Christian tradition, prophets such as Abraham, Moses, Jesus and many others went into the mountains alone to seek union with God. They fasted, prayed and meditated for many days, weeks and even months. They endured hunger, thirst, cold, heat, exhaustion and many other stresses to seek God. In the Muslim tradition the prophet Mohammed and Sufis led ascetic lives in the wilderness to find and to commute with God. Similarly in Asia, Hindu, Taoist, Shinto, Bhuddist, and Shaman priests and monks ventured into the jungles or forested mountains to find answers to the mysteries of the universe, the meaning of life and death, the spirit world and other philosophical questions. B. Hermits and Forest Monks For centeries, forest monks and hermits traveled and lived in the wilderness in search for meaning. Dangers in the Wilderness Many died from starvation, disease, over exposure and natural disaters (such as earthqaukes, volcanoes, floods, fire, from lightning storms, etc). Some were killed by wild animals (such as tigers, leopards, wolves, wild dogs, snakes, insects, etc). Others were attacked by hostile tribes living in the jungle. Some went mad. It was extremely dangerous to live alone in the jungle, yet some survived to share their experiences. C. The Legend of Paya Halin The following is a story of one of the famous forest monks of ancient Burma in the 9th century AD. Nameless Boy One nameless boy was treated for his wounds at the Halin Monastery in north central Burma. He had lost his family, friends and home during one many regional wars. His village also was destoyed. After he recovered from his wounds hebecame a monk to deal with his emotions of grief, anger and fear, and to search for inner peace. He wasan extremely quiet boy, but was ver diligent and hard working. He studied Dharma, showed his total devotion to the Sangha and found refuge in the Buddha. Ordination After many years of hard work, he finally recieved ordination around the age of 25. At this time invaders came again and attacked the region. The Halin Monastery was destroyed. The abbot and several monks were killed. Many fled into the mountains. This young nameless monk survived by hiding in the caves with novice monks. He decided to take on the Buddhist name 'Paya Halin' in honor of the monastery, which had cared for him during his time of need. earlier in his youth, the war had destoyed his family. Now, it had destoyed his monastery which had given hime refuge. He continued to wrestle with his grief, fear and anger. Into the Wilderness He decided to become a hemit and wandered away from the war torn region into the jungle of Manipura (northern border of India and Burma). He had little or no knowledge of jungle craft. He learned to survive through trial and error and with the help of many friendly villagers. He did not stay in one place long. He travelled to the thick wooded regions of southern Tibe, the forest covered mountain ranges of northeastern India and the deep jungle valleys and hills of northern Burma. D. Transformation of a Hermit After living in the jungle for many years, the monk Paya Halin did not look like a monk anymore. Physical Transformation His hair had grown long and become matted. His face had become gaunt and rugged. His robe was worn and torn by daily work and the color faded. His body was lean and wiry. His skin was dark and brown from the sun, rain and wind. His whole physical being had been transformed. His face could still show serenity and sorrow, but his voice was thick and harsh.His body had become rugged. His posture and gait had also changed. VIllagers who did not know about his existence were threatened or frightened by his physical appearance. Survival Tools The attire of Paya Halin consisted of his ragged discolored robe, short dha (sword), bamboo staff,long rope, river stones, bamboo cantiene, bamboo cup, cotton bag, straw mat and bamboo slippers. Visiting Remote Villages During his long and arduous journey, he had visited many villages in the jungles of Tibet, India and Burma.Their followers of many belief systems in these villages including Hinduism, Brahnmanism, Tantricism, Buddhism, Mysticism, Spiritualism, Shamanism and Animism among others. Hostile Villages The villagers, who embraced animistic traditions, did not recieve him well. They were threatened by his strange appearance. Children ran away in terror. Women screamed in fright and called the men for help. The men picked up swords, spears and sticks to defend the village and drove him away. He had to depart in haste to avoid injuries and death. Friendly Villages However some villages openly welcomed him, fed him, and attended to him with kindness. They shared their knowledg of jungle crafts and survival and defensive skills. He shared with them the teachings of Buddha. E. Basic Skill Development The following list is a brief outline of skills he learned from the people who lived in the jungles of Burma, India and Tibet. 1. Survival Skills Finding shelter, food and water 2. Healing Skills Daily yoga practice to maintain health and endurance. Herbal plants to prevent and restore from illness and cuts, and for body cleanliness and hygiene. Structural manipulation to mend broken bones, dislocations and muscle stress. 3. Relational Skills Taming or communicating with animals and people. Understanding the environment and using the trees hills and streams. Appeasing the jungle spirits (forest nats). 4. Cultivating Skills Making tools from bamboo, vine and rocks. Digging wells or irrigating water from streams. Growing plants and fruits. 5. Spiritual Skills Meditation (mantra and pranayama to achieve Samadhi) Tantric ritual (to commune with dieties) Nat ritual (to commune with the spirit world of nature) 6. Martial Skills Protection from wild animals (without maiming or killing) Protection from hostile tribesman (without maiming or killing) Protection from demon spirits (without creating mortal enemies) F. Martial Skills of a Forest Monk In the dense jungles of Burma, any form of threat - man or animal - was dealt with quickly and without hesitation. Delay meant death. Some would flee. Some would freeze and conceal. Some would charge and fight. Living and moving in trhe jungle needed special skills not to alarm or threaten the animals, birds, snakes, men or spirits.

the next level..

ton-ton — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:34:43 GMT

the gathering this weekend was EPIC! the self-protection workshop was awsome..so well done! Ethan and i are going to teach the same workshop at LIB, as well as a self healing workshop. We're both honored and inspired for that! Continuing spreading and sharing of valuable knowledge! the gathering of brothers, sisters and samurai was absolutely heroic to list off the crew would almost be bragging, people came from as far as Ohio and Chicago to learn and co create..so inspiring! IT WAS SOOO POWERFUL!!! the next level gathering is scheduled for june 13-15th an Elder's Camp, honoring our ancestor's learning tradition, sharing knowledge, pro active evolution! it's gonna be a weekend in the woods of the highest intention workshops ranging from fire starting to food gathering, field medicine to tracking.. Dr Gyi will be teaching the Forest Monk martial system. We are looking for a native American Elder or shaman to hold sweat lodge and ceremony. We are in the creation process so any input, interests or inspirations are encouraged! more to come.. namaste!

looking for someone to host my website for Living Balance Yoga

ton-ton — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 17:17:51 GMT

i'm thinking this should be easy.. calling any eggheads, geeks or cyberwizards to help host my website www.livingbalanceyoga.com in gratitude

This Saturday

ton-ton — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:05:49 GMT

Saturday March 8, 12:30 - 4pm at Five Dragons Martial Arts 1005 Cleveland Ave, Santa Rosa $20 Presented by Ethan Minor. Personal Protection: what it means to stay ready. This section of the training will consist of a small amount of theory and principal behind the concepts of self protection. Focusing on awareness and situational sensitivity, this intelligent informational download will springboard or minds into the place where our bodies are prepared to learn how to judge a situation and react instantaneously and with great precision. The "three level severity system" will be outlined and explained, along with proper responses for each type of scenario. The specifics will vary depending on group size and makeup. Techniques will range from simple verbal warnings to permanently disabling blows, chokes,and holds. Some techniques of the ancient Burmese Boxing style known as Lethwei will a be taught in relation to their function in close quarters combat. At the end of the seminar we will restore our bodies, minds and spirits using partner assisted healing modalities including Letha, Nate massage and breath focused stretching.

Please join me in health and community..mark your calendars!

ton-ton — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 20:27:25 GMT

Please join in and support the birthing of my new yoga studio in Santa Rosa, LIVING BALANCE YOGA. This workshop is very special and is going to be the first of many introducing my teacher Dr. Maung Gyi to our community. Living Balance Yoga of Santa Rosa cordially invites you to join us on Feb 10th for a very special workshop in Ancient Burmese Yoga with Dr Maung Gyi. Dr Gyi is a living legend, he is the Grand Master and founder of the American Bando Association. At the young age of 80, Dr Gyi is as graceful, sharp and knowlegable as ever. The yogas we are focusing on are Dhanda and Letha Yoga. DhandaYoga: In Sanskrit, "dhanda" means stick or staff. Dhanda Yoga uses a staff to assist the practitioner through flowing sets of Asana. Dhanda Yoga is an ancient Burmese tradition linked to the servant and warrior caste. Dhanda is the yogic symbol for the human spine through which Prana flows. Letha Yoga: An ancient Burmese system of partner assisted body manipulation, adjustment and alignment. The term "Letha" is derived from the ancient language of the Hpyu people who settled in northern Burma around 500 B.C. Letha means "limbs or hands and feet of a partner". Partners exchange roles as giver and reciever. call or write with any ??'s 323 369 0575

Opening Ceremony and Yoga Workshop Feb 10th!

ton-ton — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:55:21 GMT

LIVING BALANCE YOGA of Santa Rosa cordially invites you to join us on Feb 10th for a very special workshop in Ancient Burmese Yoga with Dr Maung Gyi. Dr Gyi is a living legend, he is the Grand Master and founder of the American Bando Association. At the young age of 80, Dr Gyi is as graceful, sharp and knowlegable as ever. The yogas we are focusing on are Dhanda and Letha Yoga. DhandaYoga: In Sanskrit, "dhanda" means stick or staff. Dhanda Yoga uses a staff to assist the practitioner through flowing sets of Asana. Dhanda Yoga is an ancient Burmese tradition linked to the servant and warrior caste. Dhanda is the yogic symbol for the human spine through which Prana flows. Letha Yoga: An ancient Burmese system of partner assisted body manipulation, adjustment and alignment. The term "Letha" is derived from the ancient language of the Hpyu people who settled in northern Burma around 500 B.C. Letha means "limbs or hands and feet of a partner". Partners exchange roles as giver and reciever. call or write with any ??'s 323 369 0575

Living Balance Yoga of Santa Rosa

ton-ton — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 23:31:16 GMT

Yoga is a living practice. The cultivation, coordination and balance of the mind, body and spirit. This is the Yoga of Life where You are the Guru. Living Balance Yoga is an open garden for self-healing, self-discovery and self-development. Integration ~ Communication ~ Inspiration Classes: Self-Practice (Int, Adv): This silent sacred space is held for the yoga self practitioner to blossum among other flowering yogi's. Whether your practice is new or seasoned, whatever your style from Ashtanga to Zen, we welcome you in the spirit of self development, exploration and meditation. We welcome you to our garden. Vinyassa Flow (Beg-Adv): Vinyasa is a specific sequence of breath-synchronized movements used to transition between sustained Asana (postures). This class allows the instructor to alter sequences and assign poses in response to students’ needs. Our Vinyasa Flow has an emphasis on fun, that encourages joint alignment, flexibility, balance, core strength, and cardiovascular endurance. Dhanda Yoga (Beg-Adv): In Sanskrit, "dhanda" means stick or staff. Dhanda Yoga uses a staff to assist the practitioner through flowing sets of Asana. Dhanda Yoga is an ancient Burmese tradition linked to the servant and warrior caste. Dhanda is the yogic symbol for the human spine through which Prana flows. Letha Yoga (Beg-Adv): An ancient Burmese system of partner assisted body manipulation, adjustment and alignment. The term "Letha" is derived from the ancient language of the Hpyu people who settled in northern Burma around 500 B.C. Letha means "limbs or hands and feet of a partner". Partners exchange roles as giver and reciever. Schedule: Mon - Fri, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Self-Practice Tues, Thurs 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM Vinyasa Flow Mon - Fri 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Vinyasa Flow Sat 10:00 AM - 11:30 Dhanda / Letha Yoga We are located at 506 Lewis Road, in Santa Rosa at Five Dragons Martial Arts (707) 523-4744 Fees: 1st Class FREE $18 drop in $98 monthly membership $58 h.s. or university student / yoga teacher membership everyone is welcome

Setting up Shop in Santa Rosa

ton-ton — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:14:21 GMT

I am humbled and proud to announce my professional integration to the Sonoma County area. I'm involved in two very exciting projects that are now blossuming for the new year. The first is Living Yoga, a new yoga studio in Santa Rosa that I am opening with Mark Mann. We are located at 506 Lewis Road, in Santa Rosa at Five Dragons Martial Arts (http://www.fivedragons.com). I am also helping open the Living Balance Wellness Center in downtown Santa Rosa. We are offering massage, rolfing, accupncture, nutritional counceling and much much more. I have office hours Wed 11am - 2pm and Sat 2:30 - 6pm, located at 703 Second St, suite 307 Santa Rosa. Silent Self-Practice with Michael Mon through Fri 8-10 AM This silent sacred space is held for the yoga self practitioner to blossum among other flowering yogi's. Whether your practice is new or seasoned, whatever your style from Ashtanga to Zen, we welcome you in the spirit of self development, exploration and meditation. We welcome you to our garden. Vinyasa Flow with Michael Tues, Thurs, Sat 10 - 11:30 AM Vinyassa Flow has its roots in Ashtanga Yoga. It tends to be less structured than Ashtanga and allows the instructor to alter sequences and assign poses in response to students’ needs. Vinyasa Flow is a fast-paced class with poses that encourage alignment, flexibility, balance, strength, and cardiovascular endurance. Vinyasa Flow with Mark Mon through Fri 6 - 7:30 PM Core strengthening or joint stabilization is the fundamental principle of every class to strengthen the small muscles that stabilize each joint. Through visualization this principle is also the object of our attention, strengthening our ability to focus. From focusing our attention we ultimately quiet the mind into stillness and open to the Divine. We plan to have monthly workshops, bringing new teachers and arts to the community, so that we may all continue to learn and grow. The first workshop will be February 10th featuring Dr. Maung Gyi and introducing the Bando Yoga systems to the North Bay. Living Yoga (707) 523-4744 Call for info or to schedule an appointment! May your every heartbeat bring you bliss and your every breath a blessing! -Michael Antonopoulos 323 369 0575

Yoga Namaskara..salutations from Santa Rosa!

ton-ton — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 18:57:29 GMT

I am inspired and honored to announce the birthing of a beautiful new yoga studio in Santa Rosa we are calling Yoga Namaskara. I have partnered with my brother Mark Mann, a new good friend and yogi of 14 years. In the past, Mark created Hamsa Yoga in Santa Rosa, and he is highly reputable in the SR and yoga community. We have partnered with Five Dragons Martial Arts School (http://www.fivedragons.com) the location and facility is amazing! We have other great teachers that have followings in SR that we are involving in the project. We are creating the schedule now with classes begining January 2nd 2008! We plan to have monthly workshops, bringing new teachers and arts to the community, so that we may all continue to learn and grow. The first workshop will be February 10th featuring Dr. Maung Gyi and introducing the Bando Yoga systems to the North Bay. I will be posting the schedule and more info as it develops my schedule so far: Morning Yoga Mon through Fri 8-10 AM Int, Adv Silent Self-Practice with Michael This silent sacred space is held for the yoga self practitioner to blossum among other flowering yogi's. Whether your practice is new or seasoned, whatever your style from Ashtanga to Zen, we welcome you in the spirit of self development, exploration and meditation. We welcome you to our garden. Intuitive Yoga Flow Tues, Thurs, Sat 10-11 AM Beg, Int, Adv with Michael This light-hearted practice is focused on the moment, allowing the class rhythms, energy and desires of the present to create the process. Integrating yogic vinyasa, fitness fundamentals and martial arts movements this holistic practice promises to be fun, spontaneous and fullfilling. Please join me in creation and yoga of the Now. Happy Holydays ya'll! Many Blessings of Health, Joy and Abundance! feel free to call or write with any questions, cheers or ideas 323 369 0575 -tt

Samurai Super-Hero On Call in the Bay Area!

ton-ton — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 21:35:08 GMT

this is to alert all friends, family and damsels in distress that i am on call and in service in the bay. Have Chariot, table and healthful skills abundant! I am available for massage, yoga, martial arts and fitness play! As well as house and doggysitting, facilitation of any team task, extraction from any hostile terrain, an escort chaperone extroidanaire..good vibe guru or freestyle dance monkey.. currently heading to Marin on a mission.. 323 369 0575..tonton hotline namaste ya'll! -tt

Ancient Self-Healing Yoga Systems Seminar

ton-ton — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 19:19:45 GMT

Introduction to Ancient Burmese Tibetan and Indian Yoga Systems Dhanda Yoga - Yoga system using a long staff Longi Yoga - Yoga system using long rope or cloth Letha Yoga - Partner assisted yoga system Min Zin Nate-Ta Dhot-Ta These systems focus on three major aspects of health: 1. Health maintenance and preservation 2. Injury prevention 3. Recovery from injury This invitation is for practitioners of yoga, martial artists or other serious students. Seminar is at The Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts (http://www.inosanto.com) and will be taught by Dr. Muang Gyi, Cheif Instructor American Bando Association. Both Dr. Muang Gyi and Guru Dan Inosanto are living legends and this is an amazing opportunity to learn from these masters. The seminar is Sunday September 30th from 1-6pm and the cost is $125. Register online at www.inosanto.com 310-578-7773

looking for a ride from the bay to LA in the next few days or after Earthdance

ton-ton — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 18:03:45 GMT

i'm ready to go back to LA to pack up my things..tie up a few loose ends and blast off lickety split! i have an opportunity to help a friend and continue my studies in the epic bay area..i'm so stoked! if anyone is driving from SF to LA either before the weekend or after Earthdance..please let me know my cell phone doesn't recieve here so send me a message much love and magick! eternal blisses & blesses! -tonton

an extra serving of blessings love and bounty!

ton-ton — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 08:27:31 GMT

Friday, August 17 It might be time to completely transform yourself today: new clothes, new hairstyle, and that new thing that you've been wanting, are all great ways to treat yourself. Venus' backward journey has denied you long enough, and today would be the day to rebel against feeling un-worthy, un-attractive, or any other un- that you have been feeling. The potential for breakthroughs abound everywhere you look, and there is a resonating call to remember that you work hard just to make it through each day. It's time to celebrate with friends and loved ones. Give what you most want to receive-just to keep things in balance (a favorite Libra word). Launching projects, businesses, contracts, and big purchases are all getting a green light. Don't let this day pass without taking a moment to remember gratitude, the single most important expression that you have. AFFIRMATION FOR THE DAY: I am filled with the light of love, and blessed by its reflection everywhere. http://www.12house.com/home/welcomehome.cfm i just had to share..namaste!

In Transition and Activation..and i'm gonna Burn for it Baby!

ton-ton — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:33:43 GMT

I have found myself in a position of absolute freedom and cultivation..praise Jah! I can stay in LA and build on what i have started..but i am also poised to go..to take this show on the road. I am now in preparation for the Burn, community evolution and personal metamorphosis..ready to embrace my phoenyx again! If i leave i am looking for a place to set up shop to gather resources for the Burn and beyond.. what town could use a good TonTon?..any ideas? also who has a BM ticket for me?..as i've just now set my intention! ..while i'm at it how about a playa bike? a tent? a cheap massage table so i don't need to take my not so cheap one.. also, i'm helpin CaptainErotica organizing the event Adoration, Friday at the Burn. ..we are looking for some female massage therapists and adorers for the event http://people.tribe.net/captainerotica/blog/33846346-668e-46a8-9ba7-59a525dee7fa shoot me any thoughts, maps or inspirations i love you all! Eternal Blisses Blesses & Gratitude to all of us!

Co-Creating and Cultivating Magik!..taking care of the Self

ton-ton — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 06:54:22 GMT

~BodyMind ~ WorkPlay ~ SpiritDance~ I am calling forth my tribal family to help me prepare for Burning Man. This year i am assisting Captain Erotica with a super sexy secret project. It’s gonna be epic, delicious and very very yummy yumm yummilicious! In the last 5 years i have only “planned” on going to the burn once. I now envision myself much more prepared, activated and involved. So for the next month i am offering my services at reduced rates help me prepare. I use a sliding scale according to each person’s available resources. If at all interested, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am willing to trade, swap and gift according to the flow of the universe. You’re reading this for a reason Everything we do will be fun, effective and inspirational. I hold a space that is sacred, in deep respect and in the highest honor. Our sessions are customized according to your needs, feelings and goals. Integrative Holistic Services: Massage Therapy Holistic Fitness Facilitation Martial Arts Yoga Have table, will travel! I also have a space in West LA to workplay co-create from. In Happiness Health and Harmony, Namaste! -TonTon

Primal Numbers

ton-ton — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 20:28:42 GMT

are my favorite! Tomorrow on Friday the 13th i turn 37. 7/13/2007 all primal numbers! i plan on getting SPANKED!!! probably somewhere out in Orbit.. mmm..so i hope somebody brings some cake.. mmm..magikal cake! that's a nudge nudge to anyevery! love you all spanks! Cake: [keyk] n. A tasty dessert often found at birthday celebrations.Debauchery: [di-baw-chuh-ree] n. Excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures. Best when combined with cake.

from the Student to the Master

ton-ton — Mon, 09 Jul 2007 17:48:11 GMT

a new friend prompted some wise words i'd like to share: a few thoughts to facilitate your morphos: ~you mentioned many arts from Vapassana to Kung Fu to yoga..find a foundational art..pick one and dedicate yourself to it ~you have a life of learning ahead my friend..study to become a GREAT STUDENT..not necessarily to be a great Kung Fu fighter or yogi or meditative transcendentalist ~just as a student looks for the teachers that will most inspire them, a teacher looks for the student that will best represent and transform the masters teaching inton the students life..to carry the tradition forward..your teachers will find you here's a few more: life is a blessing full of abundance love and vitality. i have learned much over the last few years, and throughout my life i have had some of the best teachers in the world. i am a reflection of you..my tribe and family, my teachers and all my relations ~communication develops and generates clarity. How one communicates with the self is how the universe echoes back in reflection. speak to yourself clearly gracefully and with love. speak in the present avoiding words and thoughts like try, should, would, someday,etc. the universe will respond accordingly ~courtesy is more contagious than anger ~plant seeds of intentions and cultivate your whole garden..mama Gaia is abundant!..do not worry about any one plant or any one manifestation. keep your entire garden clean healthy and boundless. ~life is an art ~"i love it when a good plan falls apart" the art is in picking up of the peices of a broken plan and creating success with grace ~one does not age while you're smiling. go to sleep every night with a smile and awaken with laughter. ~teach one person and you have taught ten. teach one teacher and you have taught ten thousand ~there is no one closer to God than you..not your rabbi,not your mama, not the pope, not me. you have a divine connection that is unparalled, and it is the most powerful force in the universe ever! okay so that's what i have for now..eternal blisses & blesses ya'll!