Ramayana // Janaki Mandir

Coincidentally find myself in the heart of Janakpur, at the steps of the marble temple 'Ram Janaki Mandir' (Nepali: जानकी मन्दिर), dedicated to the Hindu goddess Sita, Rams wife and the heroine of Ramayana. It is the primary temple of the Maithali native indigenous. 

Tomorrow is the night of the new moon, and the female creative energy is building.. Women gather outside Sita's temple at dusk. The relationship between Rama and Sita symbolizes two entities coming together to form a whole - which also coincides with the celestial union of the sun and the moon coming together in the sky.. Sita is said to have been born out of the womb of the earth itself, and is known in Hindu mythology for her dedication, self-sacrifice, courage and purity.

A steady stream of pilgrims flow in through the gatehouse to worship the goddess in the inner sanctum... Sita ram ram ram, sita ram ram ram.. 

She Changes Everything She Touches

What is the power of a woman who has opened to the sacredness and Divine truth of herself? What happens when she has the courage to bring the inner light outwards? What transpires when she softens her hard edges, plants her bare feet on the soul of the earth, opens her sacred channels to the Ancient Ones and declares, "Yes, I am ready to be seen?"

She changes everything she touches.

The pulse of Life that was given as she incarnated as feminine form, housing extraordinary creative and healing powers, begins to throb faster, deeper, with a rhythm in tune with the universal, eternal heartbeat.

With each throb, each memory-stirring resonance, each vibration subtly speaking ancient words of remembering, She begins to come alive to Her Shakti Essence. This is a conscious, intelligent, prescient, truthful and profoundly transformative energy.

She begins to change. She feels changes on the inside, calling her to a Old Dance that can be heard up in the hills, up in the mountains, out near the sea. The Dancing is in time to a sensuous and seductive rhythm, and there are voices, chanting, music, laughter. It is the sound of women who are in love with themselves; in love with the Earth; in love with the oceans; in love with the sky. It is the sound of women changing, and supporting one another as they do so. It is the sound of women loving, with pure sacred force, and bringing their love to all places that are wounded, terrified, shaking, and lost.

The circles of women who are dancing realise that they change everything they touch. They realise that their powers are immense, omnipotent, unfathomable, essential. They have been reminded by the Great Goddess that if they do not rise up now, if they do not open themselves to this energy, this support, this love, this power - that the promulgation of the Divine Feminine light will greatly suffer.

It is time to remember that when She is in connection with Her deepest knowing, Her deepest wisdom, Her deepest intuitive responses, her deepest healing medicine, her deepest loving heart - She Changes Everything She Touches.

Her Light will affect every room she enters. It will alter the balance of energies within every person she encounters. It will spark off transformation and healing within each and every situation that she is brought into contact with.

She has a power that has been gained through lifetimes of learning and practicing with the Great Ones, lifetimes of pulling herself through ritual after ritual, rite after rite, initiation after initiation. She has worked from dawn until dusk, through the night, hour upon hour, breath upon breath, to hone and develop the Sacred Essence of Woman. She has worked hard, and long, to prove to the Goddess that she is capable of this mission. She is trustworthy, pure, wild and infinitely connected to Light.

She can bring down the energies, she can pull up the healing, she can work her magic with lightning-speed - all without you ever knowing she is doing anything. You are probably just chatting with her. You might be receiving a hug from her. You may be walking with her. You might be asking her to use her abilities just for you. You might even be making love with her. Be prepared, for a level of transformation to occur that is relative to the level at which you have engaged her energy field.

You must be aware of who you are dealing with. These women are everywhere now, but they are usually unrecognised by the masses. Those who 'know' will see them instantly, by the way their bodies shimmer and glow with truth; their eyes appear like Mysteries, rich with knowledge that pierces the Soul; their hearts seem to embrace, comfort and cherish without a single word spoken.

They are magnetic, unforgettable and ravishing, because the Goddess is alive within them. Wave upon wave of nourishing light emanates from their bodies and flows to where it is needed - healing, restoring, transmuting. Powers such as these have long been forgotten on our planet, so it may come as a surprise when you are touched by this energy that you cannot understand nor forget. When you meet her, only remember this.

She Changes Everything She Touches, so prepare to be changed.

She Changes Everything She Touches, so realise that you called her into your life for a reason.

She Changes Everything She Touches, so be aware that she will bring up in you what needs to transform.

She Changes Everything She Touches, but don't ask her how she does it.

Those kind of secrets rest in the sacred vaults of Heaven, the most hidden natural places on Earth, the most arcane tombs and temples of the Mystery.

Someday, in the very distant future, you may get to witness her Divine methods and be permitted to enter her private, sacred domains of healing and magic. This day is a long way off. Until then, all you need to know is this:

She changes everything she touches.

Forever.

- Sophie Bashford

Imagining an 'Eco-Logical' Economy?

I have never had a good relationship with the word ‘economy’. To me, the word made me think of finance regimes, rent, speculation, capitalistic crocodiles and frantic traders addicted to computerized screens. I wanted to study relationships between the members of our global tribe, humanitarian crises and how to create peaceful communities. Despite the resistance, I ended up studying at London School of Economics, with political science and ‘development economics’ – and remember immediately reacting to the distinction between ‘developed’ and ‘less-developed’ countries. For is Norway not also a country undergoing continuous economic development? And is it not these so-called developed countries who are the main decision-making forces in the global economic system – which in turn is the source of the extreme inequalities in the world today?

My frustration grew. I protested against the financial crisis with the Occupy Movement in London, sought answers from Chang, Piketty and Polyani, Escobar, Macy and Næss; and marched against Monsanto in the streets of Oslo. I had a deep need to understand how all these crises were connected – without having to resort to books on finance, derivatives and formulas. It did not feel logical. And I felt the anxiety building up inside me – rooted in a feeling of hopelessness. Of facing an enemy that not only was invisible, but also a product of human kind’s own actions over time. A neoliberal system that had grown so large and powerful that there was no way back. For how could we possibly make any progress when not even the politicians in my home country Norway understood the dangers of dumping mining waste in the Norwegian fjords, the effect of poisonous pesticides on the dance of the bees, and the consequences of drilling for oil in the North? Part of me wanted to run away from it all.

I ran away to our cabin in Vestfold. To breathe. Too ground myself. Barefoot, I began walking the usual path through the woods, passing the abundant fields of barley and potatoes. Felt the sand under my feet as I came closer to the ocean, where the seaweed was floating softly underneath the surface. A place where my mind and thoughts are undisturbed. “It is not logical. It is not ‘eco-logical’. And the solutions do not lie in what I am against, but rather – what I am for.”

Towards a heart-mind economy

The word ‘economy’ derives from the greek language, from οἶκος (oikos; house) and νόμος (nomos; custom, law), i.e. rules of the house, or household. Could it then be said that a balanced economy is a system which ensures that resources and values are sustainably managed between people of a common household? An economy which exists and develops in a balanced symbiosis with nature, and not against it? I am for recreating a balance. For moving from what destroys to that which creates. I am for an economy built on both the intellectual and the emotional ‘logos’ – uniting the mind and the heart in authentic relations between people and nature. I am for taking back the original meaning of economics.

So how do I get there? How can humanity get there? How can the balance be restored? To me, this project began with a seed in the shape of an idea, which slowly sprouted and blossomed into the book ‘Growing a New Economy – Beyond Crisis Capitalism and Environmental Destruction’. We wanted this text to be a source for people who ask themselves the same questions, and were eager to understand how today’s economic system works, how we managed to create it in the first place, and how we can begin transforming it.

Environmental activist and author Naomi Klein writes: “We live in a time of overlapping crisis, and we need to connect the dots, because we don’t have time to solve each crisis sequentially. We need a movement that addresses all of them.” With the book, we aim to tell the story of how everything is connected – and that the solutions to the individual crises cannot be seen in isolation from each other. Our greatest challenges are not global warming, resource depletion, pollution or financial shocks – these are only symptoms of an economic system that is neither sustainable, nor fair. Symptoms of an imbalance in the deeper structures of the planet’s own immune system – in the very logic of our economic operating system. Is it logical to create a system which necessitates increased economic activity and spending, leading to the destruction of our natural environment?

We are facing a fundamental value question. It evolves around the lifestyle and worldview that the so-called developed countries have become accustomed to in the last couple of decades. A lifestyle which directly contributes to destroying the most sophisticated and effective systems we have for converting natural resources to natural life forces – the ecosystems. Already in 1997, a report was released which presented an estimate of the services provided by the global ecosystems, through e.g. pollination, the ocean’s recycling of nutrients, climate stabilisation and biodiversity. The scientists agreed that the value was around 33 trillion dollars, double the amount of the global GDP at the time. And I haven’t even begun to talk about the priceless value of our time spent re-connecting to nature!

Re-calibrating our economic compass

As people begin experiencing and feeling a closer connection to their local ecology, my hope is that start asking more questions about how, why and what we invest our money and resources in. I am for an economy which unfolds from humankinds’ inherent ability to collaborate on imagining new realities and solutions towards taking care of our extended household. Alternatives such as co-operatives, basic income, permaculture, food education, and revived knowledge about technologies – which will increase our quality of life and reduce our ecological footprint. That our relationship to nature is weaved closer into our own personal identities and social fabrics.

It is also a case of bringing these questions into classrooms, and that we from an early age learn about natures’ innate value and work continuously to make sure it is well protected. As we speak, millions of students from well-respected institutions of higher education are engaging in the global conversation on how to reform courses on neo-classical economic teaching, dominated by free market theory, and ignoring the current system’s effect on our environment.

If our values are not reflected in our personal lifestyle, they will not be reflected in the society we wish to create, and we will lack the moral strength to oppose the disillusioned political forces. As long as the ’free’ markets, green washed versions of capitalism, and financial systems out of control are placing limitations on nature’s own cycles, the symptoms of the disease will continue to show. As Wendel Berry eloquently puts it; “Whether we and our politicians know it or not, Nature is party to all our deals and decisions, and she has more votes, a longer memory, and a sterner sense of justice than we do.”

We are now experiencing a time of critical need to re-calibrate our economic compass and introduce new theories for how we manage our common household. Through a decentralised, democratic and circular economy – rich in cultural diversity, the time has come to facilitate innovative solutions grounded in both modern and ancient wisdom and practice. This said, systems change does not happen over night. It will emerge from the grassroots, and grow steadily alongside a generation who not only know what we are against, but most importantly – what we are for.
 

The White Tara

The art below is a traditional Nepali 'thangka', a Tibetan Buddhist scroll painting, often with Buddhas or mandalas. THANG KA is a Tibetan word meaning ‘recorded message’.

This piece is dedicated to the Goddess Tara - an archetype of our own inner wisdom. She guides and protects us as we navigate the depths of our unconscious minds, helping us to transform consciousness, our own personal journeys of freedom. Reminding us of our ‘oneness’ with all of creation and the importance of nurturing the spirit within.

Traditionally, Tibetan monks and lamas used the thangkas to instruct the Buddhist Dharma teachings to the nomadic population. As they are scroll paintings, they were easily transported and unrolled, for example in a village far from the monastery. The villagers would gather in the main square around the lama, who would point (with a stick) at the different parts of the thangka and to illustrate his stories.

Adopted by Buddhism, Tara become the most widely revered deity in the Tibetan pantheon. In Buddhist tradition, Tara is actually much greater than a Goddess — She is a female Buddha, an enlightened one was has attained the highest wisdom, capability and compassion. One who can take human form and who remains in oneness with the every living thing. In the legends of Tibet where the worship of the Goddess Tara is still practiced in the Buddhist tradition, it is told that the Goddess Tara is the feminine counterpart of the Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva who is reincarnated as the Dalai Lama.

Tara’s themes are Universal Unity, peace, cooperation, destiny, energy and spirituality. In Hindu mythology, Tara is a star Goddess who encompasses all time and the spark of life. She extends this energy to us, fulfilling our spiritual hunger. In so doing, Tara strengthens our understanding of the Universe and its mysteries and gives us a glimpse of our destiny.

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Conscious Choices of 2016

I just got challenged to make a list of conscious choices I have made this year to make the world a better place. I have to travel a lot with work, which equals a high Co2 footprint and a bad conscience, so I decided to make some adjustments and take responsibility to help balance it out somehow. Every footprint matters.

1. Drastically reduce plastic waste. I try not to buy anything that is wrapped in plastic, always bring my own bags to the store, avoid drinks from plastic bottles, etc. 
    
2. Make an effort to bring back the wisdom of the sages, indigenous knowledge and lessons, and apply them in my daily life. There is a great peace to be found in creating rituals for yourself, paying respect to the sacred in your life, whether it is expressing your gratitude for all the joys surrounding you in the morning or just lighting a candle for humanity in the night.. 
    
3. Make your own hygienic products. Baking soda is a great substitute for shampoo, apple cider vinegar for conditioner, aromatherapy-infused coconut or argan oil for the skin and choosing conscious brands for face paint/makeup. 
    
4. Every time you spend money, you are choosing the world you want to live in. I have spent less than 400$ on new clothes this whole year. I get most of my clothes from markets around town + trading with other people, and still manage to feel professional and sharp (believe it or not). In our flatshare, almost all the furniture and kitchenware have had other homes before. #thesharingeconomy  
    
5. Find mentors. Stay in touch with the men and women of all ages if they have something to teach you. I have a handful, and keep returning to them when I feel like my inner compass is spinning off course. 
    
6. Beach cleanups. Marine plastic pollution is the worst. Every time I am by the sea (often, having to remain sane in the city), I bring a bag and collect whatever it is that people have used the ocean to get rid of. Bring a friend and share the love, you’ll be surprised how many people will stop, ask, and learn. In yoga philosophy, they call this karma yoga, selfless service to others AND the environment.
    
7. MEDITATION. Create a quiet space in your mind and fill it with light. Breaking down the barriers and fears that society has built up around you takes a great deal of courage. My friend Åsmund taught me it is okay to cry and that weakness and that true openness is one of your greatest strengths. Yoga and a vegetarian diet also helps the planet breathe <3
    
8. Give back, pay it forward. There are many people in Oslo at the moment that could use some warmth, physically and mentally. Sometimes, a warm coffee or a smile can make someone’s day, think about this when you pass by on your way to and from your busy meeting. 
    
9. Engagement. Doing what makes you feel alive and surrounding yourself with people who inspire you and also want to make a difference. Help out where you can. 
    
10. Choose your thoughts and words carefully. Thoughts are energy which manifests itself faster than you think. Self-program yourself with visual imagery, books and music that take you on inward journeys. Be positive, and never ever put yourself down, because you are incredible and we love you.

New moon, new needs..

It's all about manifesting your own happiness. Feeling whole and complete. Setting the intention for what you feel is missing in your life. I finally sat down and realized I have to be more conscious about my relationships. So here goes.

I need a man who touches me. Who is emotionally able and can read my every breath. With many layers. A man who sees can read between the lines of the everyday unspoken and will lead me into adventures in unseen worlds. A man who sees the universe in every living being. A man who makes music out of all things alive. A man who sings songs at the campfire, whose soul will howl with me as we run through open landscapes. A man who looks at me and sees art. Whose gaze comforts my body and makes my every cell glow. A man who feels the energy of male and female and travels between the two. 

A being who has conquered the chains of time, who knows that we are meant to be mirrors for each other so that we can become our greatest selves in this lifetime or the next. Who knows my greatest weaknesses and strengths and is not afraid of facing either of the extremes. Who knows that experiencing the duality and polarities are necessary in order to expand. Who calls me by my true name and knows how to kindle the heat of the ancient stardust still burning in my DNA. Whose touch melts down the frozen layers that have crystallised around a heart which came here for the sole purpose of loving wildly. 

A man who can lead in a tribe and follow in a movement. A man who senses the subtleties of the elements and knows how to use them to his advantage. A man who is not afraid to love.