SYF GIVES BACK offering FREE Trauma and Stress Relief to Fire, Police and First Responders at inaugural Healing Village in addition to Yoga for PTSD training!

Firefighter Yogini, Essie Titus | Robert Sturman

March 14-17th, 2019 Sedona Yoga Festival unrolls the proverbial mat in Sedona for the 7th year running.  Held at the Red Rock High School and Sedona Performing Arts Center (SPAC), SYF2019 features world-class teachers and students alike presenting and soaking in the high vibes these practices are known for. Sedona, a powerful place, amplifies the experience. 200+ curated workshops, classes and experiences provide ample opportunity for the experienced yogi all the way to a complete beginner unfamiliar with downward dogs to experience Yoga. SYF is a platform that attracts thousands from near and far, an international conference recognized the world over. “SYF Gives Back is our way of supporting service, or Seva in yogic terms, and exists to do just that, be in service and since the start, this program has provided trauma-informed training to over 500 teachers, practitioners, service providers and trauma survivors. Focusing on service providers has amplified our effectiveness, “ says Festival Founder, Marc Titus, “We share proven efficacious tools, techniques and practices, that ameliorate the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress. These folks return to their communities and begin helping those who suffer; by training 100’s we have helped thousands.”  This year Marc aims to train over 200 and will personally ask them to return to their communities to support the Local First Responder Community.

First Responders in this country are here to ‘protect and serve’, and consist of a wide range of professionals who when the call comes, drop everything to manage crisis, and bring order to chaos. As natural disasters and the like, continue to present greater and greater challenges for First Responders, the scope and emotional weight of the work required of them has become more intense than ever.  Serving the very communities affected by natural disasters, these brave men & women push their bodies and minds to the limit, sometimes in the face of their own familial tragedies unfolding.

Stephen Lam | Reuters

In times of catastrophic events, such as the extreme urban interface wildland fires, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods we have witnessed these past several years, these responses can last for weeks and months at a time.  In the daily battles to save lives and to protect many First Responders can lose the most precious thing a human being can lose. Their will to live. This doesn’t happen overnight, seemingly unforeseen and often long ignored, trauma builds and is stored in the body. Severe depression, PTSD and other high-stress symptoms stemming from chronic endurance environments are still not completely understood, nor properly addressed within the responder communities.

SYF Founder Marc Titus on Assignment circa 2005 | Mount Rainier NP

The solution is not always to run to a therapist who has never worn a bulletproof vest or nomex jacket for years on end. That’s why there is such a gap in treatment as well as a resistance in the community.  SYF wants to help raise awareness around and eventually overcome this bias as it takes its toll on personnel; people… just like you or me. Often they can be the last to know there is a problem lurking within.   “When I finally broke,” Marc shares gazing off into the distance, “I had no clue what was happening… I was completely, ya know, f’ed.  Suffice to say, I was unable to function. I was in a constant state of hyper-arousal and having flashbacks daily. It was ugly. Period. Dark, cold, nasty and alone. Mean and callous; cold and calculating. Did I say it sucked!”

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ON TRAUMA-INFORMED TRAINING AT SYF2019!

Not only is SYF hosting its 6th official training, this year presented by the Mindful Yoga Therapy team from Newington, CT, they are creating a Healing Village that will provide a place for First Responders to explore and experience various healing modalities and educate First Responders by providing  an array of services, providers and educators in an mini- expo type setting for free. Healing sessions are also offered on a limited basis to First Responders at no charge. “SYF intends to ‘bridge the gap’ between the first responder community and an oft confusing world, known as yoga and meditation. We want to make it easy and safe to explore what scientists are now proving incredibly effective at combating the symptoms of PTSD, trauma and the stress of high performance work teams, “ says Festival Director Heather Titus, “by offering a trauma-informed track in the main festival program, we are sure to provide many opportunities to learn and experience the effects these practices provide. They’ve worked for us; we want others to benefit as we have.”

Marc Titus & Les Finkel on a motorcycle adventure

The 2019 Healing Village is the brain child of Marc and retired Phoenix Police IT System Specialist and Founder of Unstoppable Healing, Leslie Finkel, himself, offering healing sessions to First Responders.  With a bond they share in service, both have dedicated themselves to finding alternative solutions to their high-stress careers and are now bringing these healing technologies to their brothers and sisters in the trenches. “We know what it’s like. We’ve been there, healed and come back with the good news. You don’t have to suffer anymore.” Les says. “You wouldn’t walk around all day with a 50 pound dumbell strapped to your thigh, right? The stuff we’ve experienced becomes just that; these practices and techniques facilitate dropping the dumbell, and that feels real nice!” Nothing at all to be ashamed of they both share, in fact at times these practices can be challenging both physically and mentally, no different than other training regimes. “Yoga requires discipline,” says Heather, “So, with all the warrior poses and such, it’s actually an effective and approachable healing modality for First Responders.

SYF2019 provides a unique opportunity for area First Responders to ‘get away’ for the weekend or in the middle of a shift; the village will be open daily during festival hours and the training available to yoga teachers, practitioners, service providers, first responders and more.

Jane Tyska | Digital First Media | Getty Images

Soul-u-tions: Solving the Connection vs Protection Dilemma

As Spiritual Seekers expand their awareness and learn to tap the psychic senses, they automatically become more vulnerable to additional disruptive energies. It opens them up to a whole new level of Limbic Brain distress. That disharmony directly counters the serenity and security benefits that initially come from Yoga, meditation and increased awareness. It can even overwhelm the positive effects of Yoga and spiritual exploration, leaving seekers more stressed and on edge, than at peace. My book, “Access Your Brain’s Joy Center” (avail from www.freesoul.net as a book or Discounted Book+CD+PSST Relief DVD) has specific Brain Science insights and techniques for Self-Triggering NATURAL Mood-elevation Centers in the brain for help countering Limbic Distress AND “Feeling Better Fast” without alcohol, nicotine, drugs, or overeating. The “Yoga of the Soul” Workshop I will be presenting at the Festival will teach separate techniques for enhancing and maintaining your serenity during the most intense of pressures, even when you can not get to a Yoga Class or have the time to do your Yoga at home. Remember, the Limbic Brain originally evolved as a warning mechanism directly tied to the senses. Seeing, hearing, or feeling signs of potential threats were wired to automatically trigger fight or flight physiological reflexes (raising blood pressure, muscle tightness, and an on edge versus relaxed inner state, etc.). Leaving the Psychic Senses open (and/or without shielding) opens a Seeker up to increased vulnerability to Limbic Distress. That vulnerability is even further exacerbated by Social Media. People who use Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are opened up to even more wide ranging Limbic Brain triggering. Seeing distressing events (or comments), happening elsewhere, on a phone or computer screen, is the same to the Limbic Brain as sensory input coming from the immediate surroundings. That is why the techniques in my book “You Are Psychic!” (available as in print, as an E-booK, or an Audible book) are such a powerful tools for protection, as well as openness. Knowing that, for sensitivity, you do NOT have to leave the Psychic Senses open, all the time, is a key for psychic safety. Knowing the Psychic Reception Areas and how to tap them, gives you the ability to turn up the volume or shutter the windows, at will, as the circumstances dictate. An further analogy of the problem would be enjoying the fresh air and view of unshuttering and opening a window, but then without a screen in place, letting all the bugs in. Additionally, just opening a window without the ability to close it during inclement weather and extreme temperatures would be more harmful than beneficial. Similarly, opening up spiritually (especially including the Psychic Senses) without an equal focus on Aura Shielding and protection skills is unwise and even potentially harmful. The “Dynamics of Being a Free Soul” 10-Lesson Course (Textbook, CDs, or Discounted Text+CDs option) available thru www.freesoul.net) can help you practice and master three different Aura Cleansing/Strengthening techniques. Remember also to do those technique with a Bi-Level Soul-shifted perspective (versus head area focus that puts you more at a Limbic level). Some people say, “Thinking about Aura Protection is just being negative and giving into fear.” That IS accurate if they do not know the Soul-shift technique (see YouTube Videos viewable thru www.freesoul.net), because then the thoughts would be more from a Limbic level. Doing Bi-Level Aura Cleansing from the Soul level strengthens the Aura with love and from a universal connection rather than from a fearful Limbic Brain level. Pete A. Sanders Jr.

Dear Yogis and Yoginis,

Most Yoga Festival attendees sense the sublime energy and beauty of Sedona and many express an interest in having a home in this truly inspiring place. We are profoundly honored to have been asked by Heather and Marc to provide helpful real estate information and assist in any way we can. For starters, here’s a link to our latest Market Update. 

Here’s also a link to all the current listings available in Sedona. 

We’d also like to focus on a few listings we think would appeal to people who are more spiritually-oriented.

53 Pinon Ct. |  $1,367,500 * |  5,115 sq. ft.

While it’s been called, “The Most Romantic Home in Sedona,” it’s also been lauded for its red rock views, profound spiritual qualities, and verdant natural setting. It’s a “feel good” home, thanks, in part, to its marvelous Spanish Colonial architectural design and having been brought into alignment with the principles of Feng Shui & Geo Biology.

www.53PinonCourt.com

20 Shadow Rock Drive | $1,199,000 *  | 4,744 sq. ft.

This luxurious home is blessed with privacy, stunning views, delightful organic gardens and greenery – even a spacious indoor pool. Steps away from the National Forest in a marvelous, upscale West Sedona neighborhood.

www.20ShadowRockDrive.com 

Meditation: Pressing the Reset Button

by Rebecca Sabine

What’s the first thing you are told to do if electronics don’t work? Unplug it and plug it back in! Here are some “do-it-yourself tips” that will get your energies flowing in a positive direction and make your meditation time something you look forward to every day.

A Beginner’s Mind… Set your intention to approach your meditation without preconceived notions or expectations. Unlike so many things in life, we’re not looking for results or achievements. Just being where you are and quietly sitting in meditation is an accomplishment in itself.

Get Grounded… Begin by taking 3 deep breaths. Sit comfortably with your hands in your lap and your spine straight. You can either sit in a chair or on the floor. (If you are on the floor, sitting on the edge of a cushion to raise your hips will keep you from slumping. This is advice from the top. His Holiness the Dalai Lama himself!)

 Settle in and Relax… Feel your feet where they touch the floor. Give kind attention to each part of your body. Starting with your toes, let go of tension though your feet, legs, hips, abdomen… all the way up to the top of your head. Listen to your body and just accept whatever you feel without judgement. Be as nice to yourself as you would be to someone you dearly love.

Focus on the breath… Notice each breath in detail as you inhale and exhale. The breath is your anchor, your lifeline. Your breath takes you back to your pure essence of peace and clarity. You don’t need to control your breath, just watch it. Thoughts will come, but as soon as you find yourself becoming lost in thought come back to the breath again and again.

The “Not Now” hack… I learned this valuable tip from teacher John Travis at Spirit Rock meditation center while on a 5 day silent retreat. Try gently telling yourself “Not Now”
when you become aware that you’ve gotten lost in thought. No matter how important it seems, it can wait.

Feel Good… I used to have a VHS tape where Kundalini yoga teacher Ravi Singh said “Feel what you feel and let yourself feel good”. Somehow that phrase has stuck with me. Neuroscience tells us that giving yourself permission to feel your emotions, no matter what is coming up for you in the moment, is a key to happiness.

Press GO… Think a thought of gratitude, smile and go about your day refreshed, grounded and reset!

Monumental Moments.

Be brave enough to break. It’ll set you free.

Some of the most monumental moments in our lives are the most difficult ones. The ones that break us open. The ones that throw us in a pit of despair. The ones that leave us gutted. It’s in those moments that we uncover fragments of ourselves that help reveal to us who we are. That is of course, if we choose to navigate in the direction of self-discovery and awareness.

There is no clear and defined path to the truth or the inner self; nonetheless, the journey is still worth exploring. Crack your heart open, embrace your suffering and navigate those monumental moments with courage. You will surprise yourself.

1. Allow yourself to break open.

Break. Fall apart. Bear witness to the dissolution of your reality. Pain can obliterate us. It can be so profound, so palpable, that all of our senses become amplified and command that we re-awaken to our very own existence. Pain can make us come alive in a whole new way. It can, and often does, rip us open, exposing us to places within ourselves that we’ve always needed to excavate. Those very places that for some reason or other, we never knew required our attention.

And so, there is only one thing to do when pain destroys any trace of our joy. Feel it. Embrace it. Sit with the pain. I mean really sit with it. Let it marinate in your heart. Swallow the bitter pill that it is and taste the acrid, nasty flavor as it burns in your chest. Accept that it is there indefinitely while also knowing that, although it may never fade or even be gone…possibly ever, it will become a great deal more manageable.

It’s a start.

2. See things for what they are. And be honest, no matter how much it hurts.

The human condition is fascinating and the only way to unravel its mystery is to unravel our own. And to do so, we must be willing to accept what was and what is. Life, whatever it has been to each of us, has gifted us our very own collection of scars and fears – made up of atoms rendered by supernova explosions in abundance. For some of us, that collection is vaster and more colorful, which is an unfortunate truth, but a truth that must be accepted. We cannot bear the burden of every pain that we have felt if we wish to emerge from our current fire relatively unscathed. We cannot allow our past experiences to muddy the perception of who we really are or what our life really is as we move through our pain and suffering. In all our flawed and broken glory, we must accept ourselves – including our mistakes – without crucifying judgment. We must do the same for our lives – as imperfect and jagged as they may be. Through acceptance, we can establish the truth as it exists in the now, and that, is where we must move forward from. Delusion, no matter how reassuring, is still delusion and ultimately our internal resistance to accepting life as it is.

The amazing thing is that every atom in your body came from a star that exploded…it is the most poetic thing I know about physics – L. M. Krauss

As difficult as things may seem, accept them and see them as they are. See yourself for who you are. Cosmic brilliance.

3. Find your courage.

Do you take pride in your hurt? Does it make you seem large and tragic?…Well, think about it. Maybe you’re playing a part on a great stage with only yourself as audience. – John Steinbeck

We want so very desperately to be good and worthy which is an inherently fragile, yet incredibly beautiful way to be. In our desperation, we fail to accept that we have been imperfect. Or even that life did not stop, despite it’s grave injustices towards us as we strived for goodness. And this is why we suffer because it is a very precarious way to live. If we do not find the courage to shift the dialogue we have with ourselves to a more compassionate one, we can easily drown in our own internal chaos, fighting to deny our reality. No single human on the face of this planet is perfect or has it figured out. Not one soul. To be imperfect is to be human. And to be human is to feel, to suffer, to be right sometimes and to be wrong many times. But finding the courage to accept your pain and your reality is so important. Have the courage to let go of the pride in your hurt so as not to minimize your life to a tragedy.

Begin the work.

This is incredibly difficult. It is also absolutely necessary. Healing begins here. When we have been sucker-punched by life, we mustn’t give in to the depression, despondency, and difficult emotions. See what I did there? I tried to bring a fun alliteration into an incredibly heavy sentence. That is what we must try and do. Find love in even the smallest things. Love comes in varying degrees and forms. The ultimate joy of life is found in the love that transitions us from the negative to the positive. It is the contrast that reminds us how fortunate we are. Let me reiterate, the work is hard, but it is not impossible.

After we’ve found the heart to break open, the sense to see things as they are, and the courage to understand that our life is in fact, not the greatest tragedy to have befallen this world – we can begin the work of picking the pieces up. Our broken and shattered hearts will require reflection, time, and diligence to mend. We will have to take the time to understand, accept, forgive, and let go. And when we do, we will begin to find love in the little things. We will find it in every step forward and even in some steps backward.

But its only when we make an honest and patient effort that these things will happen. We all must do the work. Everyday. Some days will be easier than others.

Be here now.

Some may argue that this should be the first step in this list. I disagree. In order to tap into the infinite pool of awareness that is the now, we must first acknowledge that this is a step that must be taken. And that is radically different for each of us.

This belongs in our journey where we see fit. It is not a forced first step but rather a necessary one that is integrated where and when is appropriate in our lives.

Reader, I urge you to read Tiny Beautiful Things Advice On Love and Life from Dear Sugar by Cheryl Strayed. I then encourage you to explore, at your leisure, the wealth of information that is out there, detailing mindfulness, meditation, and all things associated. Take your time, and with an open mind, consider adopting a practice that suits you. You might surprise yourself.

Set yourself free by healing yourself. It is by far the most important thing you’ll ever do because it will become your gateway to the infinite