Accessing Your Inner Shrine

My Journey into the Tantra of The Inner Shrine

I recently returned from the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, where I attended an intensive study of the Tantra of the Inner Shrine, given by Pandit Rajmani Tigunait, the spiritual head of the Institute.

The essence of this intensive was about accessing our authentic, true nature—the inner shrine residing in our bodies—and embracing the divinity residing within this shrine.

The Himalayan Institute is in the heart of the Poconos. At this time of year, it is especially beautiful, alive with new growth. The air is sweet. Even though Colorado is much greener than normal, due to the abundance of moisture we had this winter (along with avalanches), it’s nothing compared to the lushness of the Poconos.

Awakening the Inner Shrine and Nature's Gifts

One of the teachings from this intensive is that every animate being and inanimate object has a gift to offer. “Well, of course’” you might say, but here is how I experienced a deeper level of learning:

The trees, with their bright new green leaves and pine growth, were not efforting to give me anything. They were simply resplendent with, and expressive of, their true nature. They were offering their essence; the same with the animals and flowers, and even the rocks. Unlike humans, nature does not have a mind to create stories about not being good enough, being too fat or not being lovable.

Our lights dim and become clouded because of the unconscious attachments we form to our experiences, especially during our early years. We keep experiencing life in the same ways, based on these unconscious attachments. Let me be clear: there is no blame, here. We simply keep repeating and re-enacting these patterned responses until we become more aware. And then we have choices in how we approach healing.

I came to this intensive completely exhausted and cranky from feeling like I was running a constant marathon over the winter, between a full work calendar, driving way too many miles between my three offices and embracing our abundant ski season. Nature was helping me restore, nurturing me, in its own loving way, without doing anything.

When we access our true nature, the inner shrine residing in our bodies, through experiential psychotherapy, movement and yoga, meditation, ritual, and prayer, we begin to tap the presence residing within this shrine. I say that my job as a therapist is to facilitate the clearing of the clouds that block the light of the sun, the solar energy or surya, as we refer to in yoga, from shining through.

The light of the sun provides the nourishment we need, which in turn facilities access to our inner shrine and connection with the divinity—higher Self, Goddess, the Beloved, Source— within.

As we clear the clouds that block the sun—the inner clouds and outer clouds—eventually, the Self shines through us in our smile, in our presence and the way we move in the world.  Like the trees, our very presence can touch the lives of others.   Sometimes it’s not about having to do something. It’s a matter of simply being present with an open heart, allowing our light to shine.

Returning Home: Nourished by Nature

Upon returning home to Colorado, I missed the richness of the land in the Poconos, the moisture and sweet smell of the air.

However, here I am nourished by the clear blue sky, where the sun shines brightly, the dramatic cloud formations and spring storms, and the new growth on aspen trees, each stand connected by a deep root system, which reminds me of our connection to each other.

As we move from spring to summer, I encourage you to connect with nature, whether it be your cat or dog, the robin in the tree outside your window, in your backyard or in the open spaced. Allow yourself to be nourished. 

Here is a poem from ParaYogi friend Mike Gaitan:

“In the deep cave of the heart

there lies a pristine love,

uncorrupted by fear,

unconditional.

It is a lone journey

but forever blessed

is one that finds this love.”

With Gratitude,

Linda

If you’re interested in connecting more with nature and your inner shrine, contact me to see how life coaching can help.