Nourishing Reality (private feed for salemayoga@icloud.com)

One of the first qualities l ever learn’t over two decades ago on starting my spiritual and yoga journey was the practice of Seva, which is the Hindu concept of selfless service that is performed without any expectation of reward for performing it. A concept that l fear is sometimes lost in our overstimulated and busy world. Seva is similar in part to the Buddhist principle of dana, meaning something like “giving,” “offering,” and “generosity.” It is a practice of connection of a coming together, cultivating empathy as well as respect. I see more clearly the importance of taking time to be, be and listen to others from my work in the community. Two days a week l serve as a domiciliary eye health care practitioner, helping those with their vision. Sometimes not too old but very ill to those who are in their 90’s and still going strong. However, one of the most common things l hear is the loneliness, the cut off from society, from friends and family. In some cases l am the only person that they can have a chat with all week. Whilst it is not well paid financially, it rewards are emotional for me helping others who really need it. Experiences that also jot me sometimes to my core to remind how grateful l am for my body and life. In our busy and overstimulated world (the saboteurs) for seva and dana. We can often find ourselves lacking the ability to pause, catch our breath and practice gratitude. All of which can prevent us from seeing where we are and more importantly what we can offer in every moment to ourselves and others. Therefore, having some helpful prompts can help you stay safe protect your energy and emotional intelligence. A guiding reminder in terms of who we connect and give to and from can be found from one of the verses from the Bhaja Govindam by Shanaracarya. sat-sangatve nissangatvamnissangatve nirmohatvamnirmohatve nishcala-tattvamnishcala-tattve jivanmuktihbhaja govindam, bhaja govindambhaja govindam mudha-mate Good and virtuous company gives rise to non-attachment. From non-attachment comes freedom from delusion. With freedom from delusion, one feels the changeless reality. Experiencing the changeless reality, one attains liberation in this life. I-AM is the ocean of awareness. Realizing this, one feels “I am not the body and mind, although I have a body and mind.” Realize Govinda, realize Govinda, realize Govinda in your heart, O wise one! From carpata-panjanka by Shri Sankaracharya. Translation by Shri Brahmananda Sarasvati Prompts for Enquiry Walking this path of of generosity, gratitude and service can be a tricky one due in part to our experiences. Our memories of events and what we witnessed as a child all impact our perception and equally our understanding. Giving can be a enjoyable and mutually beneficial for both the giver and receiver. However, it can also be abused. Therefore, l’ve included a few helpful prompts to help you review and give mindfully: * How do you perceive generosity, gratitude and service? * How much is enough? * How much is too little? * How can/ do you preserve your ability to give? * Is there equal give and take in your relationships? One way to stay nourished while giving in any way is to check-in with and maybe review your boundaries, with yourself, others and your commitments. REMEMBER STOP TAKE A BREATH, PAUSE, REST WHEN YOU NEED WITH NO APOLOGIES. Review your boundaries with yourself, others and your commitments to nourish your reality. YOU’LL BE OK, YOU’VE GOT THIS. Reverberating the essence of this piece a beautiful recommendation came across my Utube feed this morning which l’ve included below. This short interview really resonated with how l’ve been feeling of late. WISDOM AT 96 [https://youtu.be/r-rHc8tm5_c?si=UX0F4tyPovGyUw26] The PATH Over the last few months staying close to the unfolding truth of who l am has become more important in the growing noise and the stimulation of our world. Alert and walking hand in hand also with the changes deep within as well as the challenges life throws our way sometimes. I felt l need to change things yet again but in observing all of this, came a call for patience and understanding in the ever changing worlds of my interior and exterior landscape. Mainly recognising that simplifying, morphing and staying flexible have become more important to master in order to navigate these changing tides more peacefully. But how difficult when we’ve all become so ingrained into unhealthy habits, behaviours, and thinking with fear and anxiety. STOP TAKE A BREATH, PAUSE, REST WHEN YOU NEED WITH NO APOLOGIES. YOU’LL BE OK, YOU’VE GOT THIS. One great aspect to writing and connecting on Substack has been witnessing how many others have similar issues and equally interests. Showing how connection and empathy can give us the fortitude we need to accept, surrender and ultimately find the peace and joy that we all deserve. Hopefully inspiring others along the path. Therefore, to walk this path of Generosity, Gratitude and Service, l have now changed how l offer Nourishing Reality with Salema. My wish and intention is to simply encourage a more affordable way to hold the space for connection, sharing, supporting and creating with each other, whilst at the same time supporting my energy, creativity and livelihood. My general vibe and ethos since starting this Substack has always been based around the Hindu principle of Sevā . So currently everything I write, post and record here is freely offered for both paid and free subscribers, there are no paywalls here and everyone is welcome to comment on my posts. However, of course if you feel drawn to express your appreciation for those writings and support my livelihood in a material way, your paid subscription or a one off donation is greatly appreciated. Some of my posts moving forward will also have a “Donate” button like the one below where you can give a one-time donation if you’re not able to do a continuous paid subscription.  Moving Forward  Paid subscribers and Founding members will get access to monthly live circles (normally the last Sunday in every month) an online gathering portal to hold the space for connection, exploration, sharing, supporting and creating with each other. A new addition for founding members you will receive a 1:1 lifestyle guidance and encouragement session of 30 minutes with me. Current subscriptions £4 a month  £39/ year (£3.25/month) £90 / a year Founding Member FM Includes a complimentary guidance and encouragement session of 30 mins  Nourishing reality is supported by readers and listeners - I’m grateful that you’re here. Everything here is freely offered, without paywalls. Please consider a paid subscription or one-time donation to support my writing. Paid subscribers get access to online circles. Founding members have access to a complimentary guidance + encouragement session- thank you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/walking-the-path-of-generosity-gratitude/comments?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_5] or share this episode [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/walking-the-path-of-generosity-gratitude?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=share&action=share&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjoyMTYzMjU1MSwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTUxODgyMzM5LCJpYXQiOjE3MzM5Mzc4MzQsImV4cCI6MTczNjUyOTgzNCwiaXNzIjoicHViLTIyNDM3NjgiLCJzdWIiOiJwb3N0LXJlYWN0aW9uIn0.UEDYp-ai-xqMBiavKjX_WBHrpMA9fnwQCTPHytiglMc&utm_campaign=CTA_5].

Forgive Us Our Trespassing 2012 - Moco Museum Amsterdam These past few months, l have found myself leaning back into a practice that I first encountered as a child (like many) and which l’ve had an on off relationship with since - the practice of Prayer. Even through l’ve not been as consistent as l wished l do try! For when l do pray l feel it in my very soul receiving nourishment of a different kind. Nourishment from comfort, connection and somehow reassurance. A private conversation between me and a greater energy. The conversation, a reminder, a prompt for me to get real and recognise that I can’t do or control everything (something that us humans like to think we can!) I’m writing this post for you from the pockets of quiet time in between my preparation to go on a long awaited retreat in Costa Rica with my mentor Elena Brower. Something l had wished, envisioned and prayed for, for a such a long time. Always believing that if it was meant to be then circumstances would align. Releasing the ask, sending the intention and then surrendering it up to the ether. Eventually a greater energy aligned and responded, so in a couple of weeks l’ll be there, god willing. l say that as I never take anything for granted (like l used to when l was younger!) l feel as we get older we are able to cultivate a different type of respect for and perspective on life. So I’m still praying that we are blessed with ease and good health to get us there safe and sound. Coming from a mixed background, my mother Church of England and my father a Muslim. I remember being given both the Bible and the Quran at an early age to read with no obligations expected. Weirdly enough whilst at school one of my top subjects and qualifications was on Religious Education. All these many years later l did not think l would be writing on the topic of prayer. As I’ve gone through my life, my spirituality has gained insights from various teachings and schools of thought heavily influenced by yoga training. A mix of spiritual philosophies that as to date have served me well and helped me through some of my darkness times. Echoing my belief that one school of thought or teachings does not fit all. Whatever religious or spiritual teachings and beliefs you feel drawn to prayer can be a powerful tool for healing and transformations.  Recently, I’ve found myself increasingly leaning in towards writings and practices that hold the space for this line of enquiry. Observing, learning and adding insights to my spiritual and mental health toolbox as l go. Visiting churches of all religions as well as temples all over the world over the past two decades has had a greater significance and profound affect on my emotions. Offering a sense of peace and acceptance. In return acknowledging, honouring and giving gratitude to all those who have gone before me (my ancestors and loved ones) and for the life l’m blessed to be living.   Prayer can offer true evolution. Stay open. Stay close to yourself. What do you see more clearly? Inspirations have been abound for this post. From the influences of Andō and Elena Brower [https://substack.com/profile/6699041-elena-brower]Chloe George [https://substack.com/profile/4551123-chloe-george] to Coldplays latest album ‘We Pray’ to the latest work of Dr. James R Doty ‘Mind Magic”. Mind Magic is a new release, a gem of a book which unravels the myths around manifestation. Helping us understand our brains chemical reaction to these types of practices including gratitude, belief and visualisation as well as our emotions. Prayer seems to be everywhere l look recently. On a recent visit to one of my local churches …….. But of course there are other essential ingredients in Prayer including faith, hope, belief and trust. However, the best thing of all is that praying costs nothing, just a few moments of your time each day to sit with yourself in a practice that can help you feel better. The Crossover Between Manifestation and Prayer I’ve always been a big fan of manifestation and have used the practice greatly over the years. Reading Gabby Bernsteins work as well as the work of the Hicks. But did you ever consider that Jesus was also an advocate for manifestation? Never losing his faith he spoke out about how prayer and manifestation worked together. On one occasion saying ‘Therefore l tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.’ Prayer is not simply about the words we say; it’s about what we are thinking on the inside at our deepest core. Another not so easy element of this practice, is of course practising acceptance. Acceptance of what unfolds and realising that things don’t always turn out the way you had envisioned, but to go with it nonetheless, where a type of detachment is needed. Fundamentally it is worth remembering that the basic foundation of prayer is about the willingness to connect and surrender with a higher energy in a very personal way. Ask and it will be given to you. Tips for Praying * Keep open and aware. * Next time your out and about check out a nearby church or temple and listen see what wants to connect with you. * You can pray anywhere, anytime silently or non-silently. * Be aware that sometimes the answers will come back as a feeling or that nagging feeling to take action. * Try to keep you practice as regular as you can. * Don’t overthink anything, keep it simple. * The After Prayer check-in * What has become clearer? * How are you now feeling? * PRAYING PROJECTS * If you feel drawn to try praying then there are some good projects around. You can monitor your understanding and progress with a 40 day prayer guide at catching the wave [http://40-days.com]. One modern day prayer reading and inspiration series YOU SHOULD DEFINITELY CHECK OUT is from Pixie Lighthorse [https://www.pixielighthorse.com/prayers-of-honoring/] So try praying for a week and see what happens it must just surprise you! Let’s make the world a less lonelier and a more kinder place For further information and honest discussion go to TRYPRAYING [http://do.trypraying.org/meet] If you know of anyone who may benefit from this post and podcast please share here. Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/why-not-pray-and-see-what-happens/comments?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_5] or share this episode [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/why-not-pray-and-see-what-happens?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=share&action=share&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjoyMTYzMjU1MSwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTUxNzAyNDgxLCJpYXQiOjE3MzM5Mzc4MzQsImV4cCI6MTczNjUyOTgzNCwiaXNzIjoicHViLTIyNDM3NjgiLCJzdWIiOiJwb3N0LXJlYWN0aW9uIn0.tQanaZISAtcLj5gpLSIBJpZ0qHPnmVasU7RKUuaN7WM&utm_campaign=CTA_5].

Zen's, the Concept of Non-Self and Its Resonance to and for an AI World An invitation for nourishment in Life 3.0 om asato mā - sad gamaya - tamaso mā jyotir gamaya mṛtyor mā amṛtaṁ gamaya oṁ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ śāntiḥ ~ Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad  Lead me from the unreal to the real, from darkness to light, from death to immortality. Will the light of knowledge and Intelligence save or destroy us in the age of AI? And can we keep ourselves on the noble/ethical path? This post and podcast continues an interesting dialogue l first started earlier in 2024 with a trilogy of posts, exploring the relationship between eastern philosophies including Zen and AI. The Aim simply was to illuminate and enhance our understandings of how by drawing on eastern and western science alongside technology we can re-cultivate an appreciation of being human and how to live harmoniously in an overstimulated world. Provoking us to rethink about our connection and obsession with technology as well as the future of life and work. You can sample one of posts from the series below: Why Your Presence Matters in an Algorithmic Society [https://substack.com/@salemaveliu/p-145169987] Back in 2019 (just before Covid), l was asked to give a talk looking at human behaviours around knowledge and intelligence in our ai and techie world, based upon my work in this area. Part of this discussion, was to explore how some eastern philosophies may offer lessons and be relative to how we are behaving around and constructing technology and Ai? So does how we behave relate to our self knowledge and intelligence and how we choose to navigate these important discussions? Well let’s start by how do you define Knowledge? Most recognise knowledge as simply an acquisition and acceptance of facts, while intelligence points to the implementation of the facts wisely. Knowledge can be the same in different individuals, especially if impacted under the same environment. Intelligence and intuition on the other hand, are unique to individuals. Furthermore, knowledge, intelligence, and intuition are precious human gifts given to us to experience and navigate the world in a linear and nonlinear way. Therefore, can using the light of knowledge and intelligence from an eastern perspective help keep us on the noble/ethical path in the age of Ai? The verse above taken from the Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad invites us to question and reflect upon how we perceive reality by prompting us to contemplate what is unreal? and what is real? Perhaps, by applying this verse in our AI world could lead us to understand our obsession with engineering humanity? Providing us with possible insights into why humanity may want to consider merging with technology? For example with Machine/Cyborg technology and ai via computer mainframes and interfaces (Singularity) to become immortal but with a non-self. Human vs Machine Behaviour After attending various forums and conferences around the concern of transformative technology. It appears one directionality and intention for this technology is to extend life in another dimension where some of our human qualities won't transfer.  However, if we look at human behaviour one of our main purposes in life is to seek and find happiness (which is strongly influenced by the enjoyment of the senses). If this is indeed true? Is our current and growing relationship with technology chipping away at our senses along with our emotional and social intelligence? ZEN Taken outside one of the four temples at Wat Pho a Buddhist temple complex in Bangkok, Thailand, with a 46 m long reclining Buddha and a large collection of Buddha images. It is one of the oldest and most important temples in Thailand, and a centre of education and traditional Thai medicine, where l studied for a month. Zen, the concept of Non-Self and its resonance to Ai Image taken from Kyodo News via Getty Images In Zen Buddhism (slightly different from certain yoga philosophies which talk about the layers of the self). Zen follows the concept of a “no-self” referred to as (anatta) which forms a central pillar to the practices. Whilst yoga and meditation also asks us to sit with ourselves. Zen facilitates the same line of enquiry but from a slightly different perspective, using zazen (meditation) and satori (introspection) to go beyond who we think and what we are and join with all that is. Cultivating a state of “no-self”reflecting a deeper intelligence. Zen and Eastern practices and AI - the possible learnings and conclusions Currently, AI operates without any form of self-awareness and emotional consciousness, will that change one day? Perhaps but it lacks the ability for introspection, in other words to go beyond the ego and find that connection to the all which us humans have the capacity to do. That being said there are two distinct differences in terms of this concept of '“no-self”. If we apply this concept to technology, namely AI we can relate it to the technological specification in design and programming, where as in Zen it represents an profound turning point spiritually. Human behaviour Examining human history, we can see recurring patterns of behaviour; greed, war, and pollution of the environment can be traced to a fundamental root cause - desire and the un connection to all. Perhaps then by looking at the history and impact of human behaviour on society as we move forward. We can ensure that we don't repeat the same mistakes as we enter into this new dimension and human evolution.  Enter AI Ethics…… Neuroscientist and Philosopher Sam Harris in 2016 gave a Ted Talk on the future of life concerning some of these topics. Moreover, going on to say that many of us suffer from a failure of intuition and awareness which helps us detect a certain kind of danger. One of the key issues that worried him the most was about the development of AI and how we seem unable to marshal an appropriate emotional response to the dangers that lie ahead. So why should we all be concerned about this? Well, because it ultimately reflects our emotional and social intelligence in how we perceive and respond to the world around us. I first got into the Ethics around AI from attending a fascinating debate at University of Birkbeck, where l was studying. Bob Fisher is the head of Computer Vision and Centre of Robotics at Edinburgh University, and at the time was the advisory chair for the UK Commons Committee on AI Ethics for the UK. Inspired by his concern and vision l then went on to study aspects of ethics in the digital and AI arena. How to live mindfully in our AI world? Life is a difficult journey of up’s and down’s. In the technological era it presents us with even new challenges, challenges where we question our purpose as well as our existence. Therefore, it’s no surprise that we can lose our way. But scriptures, philosophies and practices from the Upaniṣads, Bhagavad Gītā, as well as the Zen can serve us as a worthy roadmap. Keeping us on the noble path towards freedom, peace, and happiness and more importantly a greater connection to all which fundamentally is for what we are all searching for especially in the age of AI. In my next podcast, l’ll be exploring another perspective of THE SELF and ‘Understanding the self’ this time from a psychological scientific perspective, so l hope you’ll join me then. Until next time. Nourishing Reality with Salema Veliu is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/zen-the-concept-of-non-self-and-its/comments?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_5] or share this episode [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/zen-the-concept-of-non-self-and-its?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=share&action=share&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjoyMTYzMjU1MSwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTUxMzczNzk1LCJpYXQiOjE3MzM5Mzc4MzQsImV4cCI6MTczNjUyOTgzNCwiaXNzIjoicHViLTIyNDM3NjgiLCJzdWIiOiJwb3N0LXJlYWN0aW9uIn0.nOACqIpA440OO4Whxc6pJq99E4JGMHVqEn9-sMlo70o&utm_campaign=CTA_5].

With National Stress Day coming up tomorrow 6th November, here's a little short and simple nugget of nourishment from a series of short videos recorded for the AntWalk [https://www.linkedin.com/company/antwalk/] platform. In the interview l discuss overwhelm, anxiety and stress and the antidote; simplify & prioritise. Key ingredients that have become an important part of my daily routine in the management of anxiety and stress. In this short but sweet video post, I also discuss the influences of the pandemic on our behaviours. Lessons to learn and what we can do better too safeguard our mental and emotional intelligence and agility in our overstimulated world. Nourishing Reality with Salema Veliu is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/antidotes-for-anxiety-and-stress/comments?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_5] or share this episode [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/antidotes-for-anxiety-and-stress?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=share&action=share&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjoyMTYzMjU1MSwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTUxMjA4OTY5LCJpYXQiOjE3MzM5Mzc4MzQsImV4cCI6MTczNjUyOTgzNCwiaXNzIjoicHViLTIyNDM3NjgiLCJzdWIiOiJwb3N0LXJlYWN0aW9uIn0.w0kRoAXCORxZZGsCe0-8M5ACHYaVNnUlKGcYvXc4_54&utm_campaign=CTA_5].

Hilma af Klint & Piet Mondrian: Forms of Life The last week has been a pivotal one for me. Holding the space and resonating with the energies abound. l have sensed tides turning as realisations begin to emerge from past stories from long ago, stories that l did not fully understand and had blocked certain memories of until now. Trusting myself to follow the cues of my inner voice to quietly enquire and explore certain explanations. Now l feel l’m able from tracing these patterns that have been present for the past fifteen years to make a change. In part l’ve been able to do this from gratefully embracing the opportunity to slow down, and be present and savour every moment. Acting more simplistically and incorporating more periods of silence into my days thank you Elena Brower [https://substack.com/profile/6699041-elena-brower] and Andō [https://substack.com/profile/1493516-ando] has also manifested and ushered in some new possibilities. Yoko Ono One of these new ventures is helping my close friend set up her new Yoga and Wellness Space in Marbella, where l will be heading early next year and hopefully hosting some workshops in 2025. A work in progress …….. Within this new window of opportunity, meetings to discuss potential new podcasts, presenting and filming projects have also emerged. Ans I’m also in preparation for wonderful travels to Costa Rica with my mentor the wonderful Elena Brower [https://substack.com/profile/6699041-elena-brower] as well as spending some time back in Holland, these are potent times indeed as we head towards the end of 2024. Enquiries for this time Can you feel the energy? How can you harness this energy to hold yourself and your vision? Do you trust your vision? And more importantly does it belong to you? November is always a significant one for me as it is my birthday month. So as l approach my 57th year on this planet earth, l’m not surprised to sense that certain shifts are afoot yet again. All of this also corresponding with the start of Diwali (in the Hindu tradition) taking place around the same time as the Scorpio New Moon. Meaning that it is not unusual that during this time that we may experience feelings and emotions that want to make us both retreat and resurface at the same time if that’s possible! What l mean by that is that we are more likely to experience light bulb moments and then want to apply those insights into action promptly and of course mindfully. Therefore, staying open, aware and trusting yourself becomes key in this period of potential healing and personal transformations. Enquires for the Self Trusting yourself, do you trust yourself and what does that actually mean to and for you? After chanting to Lakshmi 108 times yesterday in meditation, l was reminded of the importance to be: 1) Grateful, 2) Be of Service in some way, 3) Remain open, 4) Promote light. After sitting for a while in silence post meditation, l began to feel a quiet whisper and resonance of hope returning. Championing my inner voice of reminding me of my simple mantra for manifesting and celebrating life which follows below. Feel it, Believe it, See it, Trust it Prompts to help you Manifest your reality Take a few moments sitting in silence and have a journal near by to follow these lines of enquiry: What would you like cultivate and see more of in your life? How can you feel, believe, see and trust in it? How can you hold the faith and the space to just be and yet remain hopeful to manifest that which your inner voice is drawing you towards? I look forward to hearing what you are manifesting and why? Please feel free to leave a comment below. Nourishing Reality is supported by readers and listeners - I’m grateful that you’re here. Everything here is freely offered, without paywalls. Please consider a paid subscription or one-time donation to support my writing. Paid subscribers get access to online circles. Founding members have access to a complimentary guidance + encouragement session- thank you. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Thank you for subscribing. Leave a comment [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/feel-it-see-it-believe-it-trusting/comments?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_5] or share this episode [https://salemaveliu.substack.com/p/feel-it-see-it-believe-it-trusting?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=podcast&utm_content=share&action=share&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjoyMTYzMjU1MSwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTUxMDcyMDk2LCJpYXQiOjE3MzM5Mzc4MzQsImV4cCI6MTczNjUyOTgzNCwiaXNzIjoicHViLTIyNDM3NjgiLCJzdWIiOiJwb3N0LXJlYWN0aW9uIn0.YISxVCWHeNeSitBIMJ8xdei-KMAr34ZnWzwg484TDBw&utm_campaign=CTA_5].