(originally sent 31/08/26)
My friend Keith always says he prefers not to answer the question “how are you?” with “I’m busy”, as it tends to imply “I’m too busy to talk to you”.
Because I admire (and agree) with Keith, I do my best to avoid this expression also. However… this week has been more full than usual and I would be lying if I didn’t admit I’ve been somewhat busy.
Between starting new classes at Dharma Yoga, covering a community class in my local neighbourhood, substituting extra classes at Folde, finalising edits on my new website, and prepping for a day retreat (including cooking for 24 people!), my hands have felt full.
And of course it’s at times like this where our practices can fall to the side. When we think “I don’t have 5 mins to meditate”, the Buddhists say “well, you better meditate for 20 then!”.
I can’t tell you why this sorcery works… but in my experience, it always does.
Somehow when sitting in meditation, you gain more time in your day.
Maybe it’s because when we finally stop, and sit still, the nervous system calms down enough for our brain to settle its citta-vṛttis (churning thoughts), and we can gain clarity on how to proceed with our many endeavours.
Or perhaps it just puts our so-called “busyness” into perspective.
Nonetheless, I am keeping today’s newsletter brief as I make space for my many commitments, and wish you well in your week.
May you sit — even for 5 mins — and remember as H. C. Andersen says:
“Enjoy life. There’s plenty of time to be dead.”
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