Deeper rest and faster recovery - here's how

Awesome factoid about meditation I was telling you about… And proof that sitting around doing “nothing” gives you much much more than you might have realised.

When I was down, sick with man flu last week,

I took a big chunk of time to meditate because that always gets me better in a hurry.

Because - your body gets some serious rest from meditation.

One study I saw said after twenty minutes of meditation the levels of rest were TWICE as deep as those in the deepest sleep.

That kind of deep rest means your body can do some big time recovery and “de-fragging” (you know, just like your PC) right there.

Just think - if you’re sick, injured, or training hard, or just plain old been charging - perhaps up with the kids early in the morning as well …

How much will your body love that kind of rest and recovery?

Mucho!

(That’s Spanish for a lot).

More energy for your busy life, meaning you can give more - everywhere.

The great thing is meditation doesn’t take long to give you a big boost.

When I was an outdoor instructor I would often get ten minutes to myself when the next group was late or whatever.

I could have (re)checked the gear, but instead I would find a tree or rock to lean against, and get some quick “me” time.

Recharging, as it were.

It meant I had so much more energy, I was clearer too (not groggy, not relying on coffee and snacks to keep me going).

I was funnier too (well at least I thought so. I was having a good time - and that’s half the battle isn’t it?)

So close your eyes, meditate.

If you don't know how - hold on til tomoro - I have something that will help you no end.

Rest is just one of the many benefits that my guinea pigs are experiencing right now having had their first session of the Mountain Mindset trial.

The other is sleep. Deeper sleep at night than ever before, and well, also when you a super common experience when you begin to meditate.

Sometimes the body just needs to catch up.

If you are getting that when you close your eyes - it is not a problem, just go with it.

It’ll change.

Next course - interested? Just so you know - I’m looking at dates for the next course.

I’m thinking it might probably be a weekend course.

It’ll be the core of the Mountain Mindset trial but squeezed into one weekend.

So if you’re short of time, or busy evenings, this one is for you.

The Mountain Mindset programme for me is perfect because I get to spend 4 whole weeks overlooking your progress.

You get to have someone on your case (me!) - and that is actually super helpful. “External accountability” is what that is called.

And it works, it gets you results without you having to think about it.

But a weekend will work just fine too. Especially if you have the commitment, the inner motivation, it’s simple.

It’ll be cheaper too because of it’s short, sharp, “just the essentials” nature.

If you are interested in something like this,

What would be grand is if you can drop me a line (arjuna (at) arjunaishaya.com)

and in the subject just put “weekend”.

This is just to survey interest - no obligation whatsoever.

Til then,

take it easy out there! Arjuna

PS.

Just send me an email (arjuna (at) arjunaishaya.com) and write “weekend” if you’re interested in a weekend format - at SOME stage.

No obligation, just to see if a weekend would theoretically suit you better than a 4 week evening course.

And - thanks!!

“Let It Go!” (Arggg! Not Frozen)

What does “let it go” mean?

Not the horrendous “Frozen” song - I’m sure that is played in hell.

My nieces are actually (temporarily) overcome by devils sent to torture me as they sing it to me.

But the “let it go” that some are guilty of casting about, empty, here and there.

Like saying “just breathe”

Or, “Just drop it”

It’s great advice, but if you have no idea of actually HOW to do it, it’s completely useless.

So here you go:

Letting something go involves the ability of focussing on something else.

Because you can actually only focus on one thing at a time,

(Which means you can tell your lady friends who insist otherwise that multi-tasking is a complete myth and only results in tornado shaped humans …

… In other words “spinners”  or “flappers” - i.e. not very effective at anything except speed of motion and exhaustion).

Because you can actually only focus on one thing at a time,

You distract yourself from negativity or stress by bringing ALL of your attention to something different.

Stress and anxiety and all that simply exists in you because you continue to give it attention.

Like a vampire it exists because you open your life blood to it.

Either because you think stress is important and useful (it’s not).

That worrying helps (it doesn’t).

Or you simply don’t know how to not be that.

“Let it go” is valid if you have the tools to perform a distraction on yourself.

To take your attention off the thing that is causing trouble.

And putting it on something you CAN do something about.

“Just Breathe” is actually good advice, if you do it.

Deep belly breaths are a wonderful basic tool for coming back down.

Being present is great advice too, but sometimes it’s the hardest thing in the world.

That’s where practice comes in.

Because the more you do it, the better you get at it, and the more it becomes your default way of being.

Having a tool that works is everything.

And the tools like I’m teaching in Mountain Mindset are the best tools I’ve found, anywhere.

For making you calm, clear, content.

Able to focus, and ignore doubt and fear.

“Let go” of all negativity and reactive limiting patterns, whenever and wherever

To go and do what you want to do, without your mind stopping you.

There is still space around the “Mountain Mindset” table that I’m looking for volunteers for.

If you want a chair apply here:

But do it immediately, as space is extremely limited, AND time is running out.

I can count the days left on one hand.

For more information opt in here, and also get daily tips and inspiration via my emails like this one:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/outdoors/

Take it easy out there

- Arjuna

PS. If you’re interested do so quickly, because the first session is on Thursday coming - 4th August.

And you can’t join late.

Which means you’ll miss out.

And that would be a shame, wouldn’t it?

The one thing you could have done that would change your life, and you didn’t.

More info and daily emails like this one:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/outdoors/

It’s Nice To Get Some Love, Isn’t It?

Had a great email from a guy called Mac I taught the other week. He says:

________________

"You will be glad to know that I have managed to get my 10min twice a day meditation sessions in, as well as my 2 children giving it a try, who enjoy the peace as well.

But my life has changed Archie honestly I find as I have no built up anger, I can communicate with my wife, with no arguments, who also comments on my attitude towards her, I have been considerate and giving, I know myself I haven't been for years.

Just like to say thanks again for the calming skills you have taught me Archie. I will keep you posted on my progress.

Massive thanks from all the McCulloch Clan."

Mr J McCulloch ________________

What can I say?

Isn’t that awesome?

I love teaching this stuff because it just works.

You do it, and every part of your life transforms.

Mac's practicing 10 minutes, twice a day.

Not a lot of time is it?

I do recommend 20 minutes, twice a day, but good to know even 10 minutes can completely shake things up for the better.

Combined with some mindset and attitude tweaks that we went through he’s putting into play, and everything is changing for him.

And it's only week one!

Love that.

Do this and you become the best version of yourself.

Honestly: you win, your family wins, your partner wins, everyone wins.

Just through learning then practicing a simple set of tools and understandings.

Want that?

For more information, and regular tip packed emails, opt in here:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/outdoors/

Keep the peace! Arjuna

PS. His kids are doing it too - if kids can do it, so can you. Simple.

If you have questions, just ask - I'm super happy to help.

Some mental fortitude with your coffee?

I’m in Nice, France of all places. My wife’s brother lives here so we’re paying him a little visit. It’s a world apart from the mean streets of the Yorkshire Dales where I live. But I’ll cope.

Just sitting in the sun waiting for the coffee to be ready.

Nice way to start a morning, huh? Being self-employed does have its bonuses.

I went for a run up a hill (gotta find something physical to do otherwise I go a little crazy), now is the time to drink coffee and help people via email.

You know, I’m a “meditation teacher”. That’s probably what I would call myself if someone asked.

But meditation has so many weird connotations sometimes, I need a new term.

Too much incense and candles and dolphin music and what-not isn’t for me - or you, I believe.

Hence that’s why I’m playing around with calling this stuff “mental fitness” or “mental fortitude”.

I like the word “fortitude”.

It has an old school all moustache and pipe, climb Everest in tweed and hemp and sheer strength of character type feel to it.

You know?

I love finding a way to connect the dots …

To make meditation an interesting idea for - again lacking the language - “real men”, guys who want the most out of their life without having to be involved in too much silliness.

Men who just want some down to earth, super practical, no belief required, just “do this, get these results” type techniques.

So you can take them into the outdoors and have more adventure and more fun than ever before.

So you can make the most of all of your life - family, work, the whole thing.

Just so you know -

I’m not sexist or anything. I’m so happy for real women to come along too, but the initial trial I’m running will be guys only, just to get the ball rolling in that direction.

I know a few of you may well be sceptical, and that’s one of the reasons I’m doing this trial.

At completion I’m going to have a bunch of guys who are stoked with their results.

And super happy they made the jump and applied to do it in the first place.

I’ll get some fine testimonials so I can prove beyond a doubt that this programme works no matter if you believe it will or not.

You just have to do it. You just have to practice: Simple.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained, after all - right?

Here’s the link so you can get on the email list to find out more:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/outdoors/ Have a great day now.

Need anything? Just hit reply.

Arjuna

ps.

There are only 8 places.

I may extend it to 10, if there is demand.

But 10 is the maximum.

I want to give the guinea pigs in the trial my full attention, and limiting numbers is one way I can do that easily.

To make sure you’re getting it, and keeping it super simple - not complicating things. Because thats not necessary at all.

Simple is better.

Get more  info here: https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/outdoors/

Local monk seeks volunteers to trial revolutionary “mental fitness” programme for outdoor athletes

Press Release:

Local monk, meditation teacher, and Armed Forces mental skills trainer Arjuna Ishaya has just announced that he is looking for 8-10 male outdoor aficionados to test a revolutionary new meditation based “mental fitness” programme to be held in central Darlington over five weeks beginning early August.

In exchange for these volunteers’ time, effort and feedback, he is offering over £400 worth of training and coaching over the five week period completely free of charge.

The “Mountain Mindset” programme promises to bring about huge changes in performance and enjoyment levels for these men in their outdoor pursuits as well as in general life.

Arjuna says:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local men who are serious about making the most of their time in the outdoors to gain some potentially life changing skills - such as the ability to choose to be in the “Zone” at will.

“Your state of mind changes everything. But in the outdoors, and sports in general, mental skills - for example to ignore self-doubt and pressure to remain calm and focussed - are rarely taught in a structured way unless at an elite level. Even rarer is the application of something like meditation to such a practical and observable purpose.

“I designed the Mountain Mindset programme in order to prove the value of meditation and mindset skills to “real” men’s lives. Having taught sections of the British Armed Forces meditation and yoga I know from experience what a barrier the perception of meditation is, but the reality is something else that men in particular are only just catching onto.

“I’ve taught thousands of people to meditate over the last 13 years but chose to run this initial trial with men because I want to demonstrate beyond a doubt the overwhelmingly practical benefits of these skills to even the potentially most sceptical.

“The trial programme might be free, but the volunteers will be expected to pay their way in effort and attitude. The return is that I guarantee participation will crank up the volunteers’ mental game a considerable and noticeable notch or two over the five week period of the trial, and even more if they continue to practice what I teach.

“By precisely following my simple instructions I can also guarantee that at the end of the trial they will notice such changes in their daily levels of calm, clarity and happiness they won’t want to stop their mental fitness training.

“I’m excited about the trial. The lucky volunteers will be blown away by the results that they get and I also plan to use the data gathered from the programme to feature in an upcoming book.

Prospective volunteers can get more information and apply here:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/outdoors/

Further Background Information:

Arjuna has been based in Richmond since 2008. He became an Ishaya monk and started teaching meditation in 2003 after observing the power of the mind over himself, his fellow outdoor enthusiasts, as well as his clients as an outdoor instructor in the mountains of the South Island of New Zealand:

“Fear and self-doubt stops everyone at some stage. I’ve seen it in the outdoors because you’re sometimes faced with very real danger. But mostly the challenge of a situation is less real than the mind's perception of it - the result of which is overload, stress and poor performance. You see it in business, in relationships, in raising your kids, you see it in every aspect of life.

“Equally all outdoor people know particularly well that heightened “Zone” state of awareness where you thrive on the challenge: presence, clarity, confidence, enjoyment and skill are all enhanced, sometimes hugely. The only problem is that very few people know how to choose to be in this Zone state at will.

“This Mountain Mindset programme - of which anyone can learn - is about switching off from the negative tendencies of the mind and learning to engage with this Zone state more and more deeply. It’s an extremely practical and simple set of tools for anyone who is interested in not only performing better, but living a much better quality of life.

Ishaya monks are known for their practical, pragmatic and fuss free approach to meditation.

Watch out for that there rock!

Many years ago I learnt (actually I lie, I’m still learning) to kayak on rivers.

Rivers are wild things. They’re a bit like life, really.

Philosophical metaphor stretching bit coming up …

They can look innocent yet carry hidden dangers, like rocks and trees.

(Trees and rivers are not good when you add a kayak to the mix - see, water goes through trees, kayaks and people don't)

Or they can look outrageous and big and noisy, but really when you get in there it’s nothing but fluffy and bouncy and fun.

But the key thing I learnt in my kayak is that you have to look where you want to go.

If you look at the thing you want to avoid - which seems very sensible…

…but really not so sensible cos it takes you directly to that thing as if it was magnetic.

Now I hit a lot of rocks simply through trying to avoid them.

It’s about as much fun as it sounds.

And then someone pointed out to me to learn to focus on where I want to go, to the exclusion of everything else.

It changed everything for me - all of a sudden kayaking got simpler.

And I would say the same rule applies true for life, and for meditation.

What you focus on, grows.

If you’re focussing on all the thoughts you’ve got, or all the things you have to do, or what could go wrong …

Then that grows.

If you focus on this precise moment in time, then this grows.

If you focus on what is good in your life, that grows.

If you focus on exactly where you want to go, you end up going that way.

Does that make sense?

Learn to focus on what you want, and ignore everything else.

Best way forward ever.

So kayaking can teach you how to meditate, and meditation can teach you how to kayak, or mountain bike, or ski/snowboard or motorbike or live...

That’s the whole purpose of meditation - to learn to develop choice, to focus on what you want.

It’s not a harsh violent focus, more a gentle definite persistence to return time and time again.

Want help with that?

Ishayas’ Ascension meditation course. Simple, powerful, relaxing tools that meditate for you:

http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Watch out for dem rocks!

- Arjuna

A life or A Life?

I talk to a lot of people in my travels.

Sometimes “formally” as in a class or talk situation, other times less so, like on a train or in an airport.

I love talking to people about what lights their fire, what makes them passionate. I love finding out what their greatest memories are, and why. I love discovering what they want most from life.

Obviously that requires a level of deep and meaningfulness that doesn’t regularly happen in an airport, for example, but it’s amazing how often I can steer the conversation that way.

People love to talk about this stuff because its not talked about enough.

Life can so easily slip into a kind of drudgery and hence being reminded is like a ray of light.

My memories of the high times in my life are the reason why I learnt the Ishayas’ Ascension meditation in the first place.

I knew life could be amazing because I’d lived through some amazing moments. The thing was I didn’t want them to be memories, I wanted life to be constantly alive, not an up and down of happy/unhappy or alive/drudgery … you know?

I wanted the kind of life where I moved from highlight to highlight.

How about you?

Now I know the intensity of the highs is impossible to maintain. And I also saw, very much so, the role of my own mind in the low times in life.

I realised that my own mind was controllable, in a sense that the outward circumstances aren’t.

My greatest shot at living a constantly fulfilling, content, happy life lay between my own two ears.

My last email was about how people would rather shock themselves with electricity than be with their own minds.

I get that. I also know, even with seasoned meditators, people who have been doing the Ishayas’ Ascension meditation for years, they can fall into a kind of a funk and lose track of why they’re doing what they’re doing.

They forget the purpose. When you forget the purpose and then life gets a little tough it’s easy to throw the whole thing away.

So remember the why. Do what you can to stay reminded.

The whole point for me for meditation is to be fully involved in life. To make it simpler and lighter. To bring the world Alive.

Sometimes that practice of going beyond the limitations of the mind is straight forward. Sometimes its not, stuff gets in the way.

But whatever - you have to do the work. You have to practice. Otherwise life slowly becomes one of struggle and “meh”.

Which is fine if you want to live that kind of life, but really, do you?

I know for sure that I don’t.

So my commitment every day is to make sure I do the things that give me the best shot at being the best version of myself. Regardless of how I feel, how motivated I am, how busy I am.

It’s just got to be done. Because the end result, the overall result, the trajectory is becoming better every day.

If you want to know how, or need a reminder, I have some very good colleagues who will be able to show you how:

http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Whatever you do, make sure you have a spectacular day

• Arjuna

PS. It’s 100% up to you how alive your day is.

How much you remind yourself, how much you keep doing the work that creates that, how often you ask questions to remove your doubts. Totally up to you.

Don’t wait for life to be given to you.

That link again:

http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Would you rather shock yourself or be alone with your thoughts?

A study showed that people would rather shock themselves than be alone with their own thoughts.

When there was nothing to distract, nothing to do, no phone, just them and their heads …

… in that situation, people would shock themselves with electricity in order to create a distraction.

This means:

People will choose to hurt themselves rather than have a clear awareness of their own minds.

Here’s the link:

http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/may/29/would-you-zap-yourself-to-avoid-being-alone-with-your-thoughts

Isn’t that crazy?

Trying to get away from your own head is like trying to run from your own shadow, right?

I get that - and I’ve tried to run as well.

I found my distraction in the outdoors.

Peace and stillness would come from the beauty and hugeness of nature. Physical challenge gave the perfect distraction to the worries of the week.

But I discovered that where I went, my head went too.

I couldn’t distract or sedate myself forever.

You have to stop running. You can’t run forever.

You have to embrace your mind, and in that, find a way around its ups and downs.

Your mind is pretty close to the core of your being.

But it isn’t you.

If you can be aware of your thoughts - if you know what you are thinking - that means you aren’t your thoughts.

Do you get that?

Becoming free of your mind is crucial to all of life.

So you don’t care what random thoughts blow through any more.

So you don't care about that past event revisiting again.

So regret and worry and fear and all that stuff becomes like a passing memory.

You want the best way to become the master of your own mind, so you’re not running?

The Ishayas’ Ascension meditation is the thing that will help.

http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Have a great day

• Arjuna

PS. I’m 100% when I talk about being the master of your own mind.

So you can focus on what you want to grow, in your head, in your life.

It just takes the right tools, and a little practice:

http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Death is preferable to thinking about taxes

Did you have a great long weekend? Loved mine.

I spend it doing my taxes.

I love doing my taxes so much that every year I leave them to the last possible moment.

I’ve found that avoidance is the key to maximum confusion as I throw receipts in the air, Scrooge Mc Duck style.

And I love being confused.

No, not really…

But instead of leaving them, I sat down and did them this weekend.

What I found was that the thought about doing taxes was much worse than the reality.

When I finally sat down it was actually okay.

It was actually nice to get things in order. To sort and file and organise and come up with a number.

You ever find that?

Something you’re not looking forward to doing, and so you avoid and procrastinate, and then you finally get round to doing it…

… and it’s not that bad. You may even see the positive in it.

Funny huh?

The mind can make hell out of anything.

Here’s a rule for life:

It’s never about the thing, it’s always about your relationship with it.

If you realise that, nothing can make you miserable because your realise that you have the power to get miserable, or not.

Wouldn’t that be a great way to live? Knowing that you choose everything?

Indeed, it is.

Now, what does freedom of choice take?

A simple mental exercise program. Sitting down and becoming stronger in what you focus on.

It doesn’t take much, just closing your eyes regularly.

The simplest, most powerful way of getting absolute freedom of choice that I know of is the Ishayas’ Ascension meditation.

The more I do it, the simpler it gets.

If you want in, the next course here in Richmond, North Yorkshire is 24-26 June.

I’m not teaching it, but some good friends who I strongly recommend as teachers are.

I’ll be around though if you want to say hi, it would be nice to catch up and chat.

The link to book is here (and accommodation is available if you’re from out of town):

http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Whatever you do, be aware of what your mind is telling you. It makes such a difference when you are aware. In awareness you have choice.

Take care Arjuna

PS. So you don’t miss out, that link again is: http://www.thebrightpath.com/courses/first-sphere-richmond-mini-retreat-option-also-available-richmond-north-yorkshire-2016-06-24

Having something that will help you deal with your own mind is so crucial.

It means you won't hurt yourself unnecessarily.

I’ll tell you about a study that showed people would rather shock themselves than be alone with their own thoughts.

Next email…

Organising a wedding - separated before a divorce is even possible?

It turns out there are quite a few things to do to arrange a wedding. I thought it was a suit, a dress, a ring or two, and a bit of a party.

What I’ve found is that the demon, as always, is in the details.

The list appears to be unending, and the day is coming quickly (Saturday)

So -

1. Apologies for the break in your usual email service. But I’ve been busy! I’ll get back to you asap (after the nuptials)

2. I can really really see how people say weddings can be one of the most stressful times of your life.

I also see why people just throw money at an organiser to do it all and end up in debt for the next 10 years paying the wedding off.

The old me would be huddled in a corner right now, rocking back and forth, murmuring to himself, strugging with so much to do, so many people to chat to.

But the new me - with the foundation of calm and clarity provided by my Ascension meditation practice - is feeling cool as a cucumber.

You see many people practice when they enter a state of emergency.

A challenge hits them so (if they’re halfway sensible) they start to close their eyes to deal with the stress.

The approach I recommend is to practice when life is easy…

…so when disaster strikes (not that I’m comparing marriage to a disaster), you sail through it.

The challenge becomes simple and straightforward...

Not complicated and pressured and too much work and overload resulting in arguments with your lovely wife to be.

Makes sense doesn’t it?

It’s the difference between managing stress and ending stress.

Do you see?

Why merely manage something when you can finish it??

I know what I prefer.

And you?

I think you know how you would prefer to live.

How about starting now?

www.thebrightpath.com Take it easy, and talk more soon! - Arjuna

The answer to the biggest hurdle to learning anything

The single biggest hardest thing with any kind of program of education or self improvement that you will be involved in is the same no matter what program it is. Whether it’s cooking, getting a degree, learning a language, or becoming the master of your own mind…

The single biggest problem that everyone has…

And I mean it, overwhelmingly, the greatest hurdle is…

It is very likely that you will give up too soon.

You stop before you get there.

Becoming different from what you are now is a process.

It takes time.

Because it takes time you need to keep going until you get there.

You need to keep taking the steps until you know you have arrived.

The trouble is very often you have no sense of perspective within yourself.

Other people will have a better grasp of that than you…

They can see what is happening better than you, in many cases.

Simply because your own mind is much more likely to tell you that you’re no good.

That because of this bump or hiccup or that problem you’re never going to make it.

It never gives you good feedback (so stop listening).

So you quit, all while you’re racing ahead to your goal.

The best thing you can do to avoid this is commit. Fully jump in and don’t stop until you have become the thing you want to become.

Commitment is everything. If you are 100% in, then little bumps don’t matter.

You carry on regardless.

Therefore: Commit. Don’t stop!!!

The other thing is getting a system of outside objective feedback.

A community of people that will be honest with you. A buddy to help out.

Or a coach, if you like, who is so valuable in learning anything.

Coaches are rarely cheap, but always, always, always, the ones I have gotten to help me have always got me results, way faster than I could alone.

Coaches will give you objective feedback, they’ll give you the fast path, they’ll be on you - for your own interest.

They will stop you recreating the wheel, answering doubts, giving you a programme that means you keep going.

The bottom line is that doing it yourself only gets you so far, then your progress slows to a crawl until expert help points you in the right direction again.

The other thing is, to come full circle:

By paying a coach it means I have also been committed, you see?

I’m going to do what I need to in order to get what I say is important to me.

It means I won’t stop too soon.

If you want that, if you want someone who will help you be the master of your own mind, to conquer stress and struggle, to make a life of purpose and fulfilment and contentment, then…

I have a couple of one of one coaching spots opening up very shortly.

If you want one of these, then fill out this application form and we’ll discuss what we can do together: https://arjunaishaya.wufoo.com/forms/z1lypp5w0gshcsx/

Have a loverly day:

- Arjuna

PS. Remember your greatest teachers? Of course you do. They were the people that helped make you the person you are today.

Amazing people. Why not drop them a line and tell them how awesome they are?

You’ll give both of you a lift.

Get in on the coaching right here. There are only a few spots while I work out the next group meditation mastery awesomeness programme (coming soon - stay tuned):

https://arjunaishaya.wufoo.com/forms/z1lypp5w0gshcsx/

Mindfulness isn't enough

The other night I was talking to a couple of gentlemen who were very interested in stopping certain habitual thought patterns. In other words:

They were sick and tired of the same regret or worry resurfacing in their heads, time and time again.

One of the fellows had been thinking about the same incident for 20 years now, with no relief. Can you imagine being harassed by the same thought for 20 years, unable to come to any conclusion, or “let it go” as Elsa might sing.

I bet you can.

The horror.

But good on them for not giving up on looking for a way out.

Their doctors had tried everything - medication, all the way through to mindfulness.

Now there was something about mindfulness that intrigued them.

In the books they were reading they saw something there that could help give them some relief, help reprogram their minds.

My dabbling with mindfulness entailed being told to chew on a handful of raisins, one at a time - to do it mindfully, with awareness.

My question after a couple of attempts - which was exactly the same question as these gentlemen’s to me - was:

“what is the point?”

Why? What am I supposed to be getting from this?

The trouble with mindfulness as it’s generally being taught - and perhaps it’s more the way it’s being understood and perceived…

… is that its a little like being dumped in the ocean and told to swim for shore, but not told which direction to swim in.

Does that make sense?

You can be aware and mindful of anything: a handful of raisins, your breath, your body…

and it will give you some relief from your mind,

it will mean you become present,

but it helps so much more when you know what you are looking for.

And that’s when I learnt Ascension meditation I realised I hit the jackpot because suddenly I was given a direction to swim in.

I was given a vehicle that took me to the meditative state of being.

It brought me the maximum amount of calm and clarity in the shortest amount of time.

No longer was I adrift, hoping I would stumble upon the experience I was after.

I was given a seat on the bus that drove me there. No more guess work.

I can’t stress enough how not all meditation is equal.

“Just being mindful” sometimes means just floating around, not doing much.

If you want what I believe is the greatest tool that gives you what you want, that meditates for you, learn Ascension meditation.

It’s the business.

And I owe it to you to let you know that if you’re interested in this stuff, don’t mess around. Go for the best.

If you’re local, we begin tonight 7pm (Friday) and I’m sure we can squeeze one more in.

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

Take it easy now!

- Arjuna

Transformation is not for everyone...

Is transformation for everyone? Actually, is Ascension meditation for everyone?

No, I’m afraid, to both.

It isn’t for those who are content with staying as they are.

It isn’t for those who are ok with having a “so-so” life.

It isn’t for those who are happy to continue to point the finger at everyone else and blame them for what’s happening in their life.

It isn't for those who sit back and are a drain on their partners, their families, friends, work colleagues.

It isn’t for anyone who wants to continue to live in limitation.

In fact it’s not for very many people at all.

Ascension meditation…

…speaking of which, my very last course for some time is this weekend, and at the time of writing there were only a few seats left…

Ascension meditation isn’t for those who want everything given to them without being prepared to sacrifice (not much, just a little) to get it.

If you are one of these people who want a magic pill, or who have no interest in changing, then please don’t sign up for the course.

You will hate it.

Because I will gently, but continually, point the finger back at your own heart:

“What do you want to do?”

“What can you do?”

“What will you do?”

I will give you the tools and the understanding, everything you need to live a life of freedom…

… to live your life 200%, with more of everything:

+ more calm, focus, happiness

+ more ability to give and care and love

+ more clarity, perspective, courage, creativity and intuition

+ more rest and rejuvenation

+ more contentment, fulfilment and purpose

(Whew. That’s a whole lot of more.)

And then set you free to make your choices in the best way possible.

If you need help or assistance or support or anything to get back on your own feet I will give you everything I can…

…no matter how many times you trip up.

Since Ascension isn’t for everyone, when you make the decision and commit and walk in the door and practice you are a rare human indeed.

Because you want to live a heroic life.

And because of that, I want to help you however I can.

So - keeping on doing what you can do to live the greatest life you can.

One foot in front of the other.

If you want a seat at this weekend’s Ascension meditation course, and I do strongly recommend it, then click here to sign up:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/ Have a superb day! Arjuna

PS. Truly - the best tools for personal transformation, effortlessly and enjoyably, are right here.

If you want more, you want to be on this course:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/ Be seeing you!

Whatcha doing tonight? (webinar)

Whatcha doing tonight? If just watching TV, hanging out, cutting the toe nails, maybe you want to tune in to Arjuna TV as well?

I have a webinar, which I think are wonderful things.

You don’t even have to get off the couch. Just grab that laptop and click on the link and be informed and entertained.

It would be nice if you had any questions you could manage to type them in, but really, who wants to have their questions answered?

That was a rhetorical question. You don't need to answer that one.

If it's boring, you don't even need to ninja sneak out the back. You just switch off.

Amazing!

So - Tonight (Sunday) 8pm I deliver a webinar on meditation and mindfulness.

Getting calm and being focussed and having more fun than the Dalai Lama, all through closing your eyes.

How to start a practice, how to continue one.

The mistakes that you will make or are making, unless you’ve been taught well (and listened), because humans are humans and we make the same mistakes, sometimes over and over again. Forewarned is forearmed though, ay?

The brain surgery of meditation (i.e. it’s not rocket science) - the uncommonly known yet once you do how obviously common sense they should be (if that makes any sense to you)

Some tweaks, some different perspectives, some motivation, maybe some inspiration and hopefully some laughs.

Because life is too short for seriousness.

Get your virtual seat here:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9161850336915870209 See you tonight! Arjuna __________________

P.S.

Wanna come to the Ascension meditation course next weekend? My very last one for some time. I'm a changing things up.

There are still a very seats left at the low low price of £200

Which includes the ability to resit for free for the rest of your life…

And all the support and follow up you need, again - for the rest of your life.

A bargain. And what price is your peace?

You can do this - Ascension is so simple my 5 year old niece can. It is so powerful it literally gives you your life back.

With a 30 day money back guarantee, you can't go wrong.

Sign up here: https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

I'm getting married in 4 weeks time, but I have no ring!

In just over 4 weeks I’m getting married. Hurrah! So many things to do and plan and all of that. And you know what?

I still haven’t bought the ring.

I bought “a” ring, but not “the” ring.

Thing is, I have no idea what the fiancee likes.

I’ll walk past a shop window and think, “she’ll like that”…

And so I subtly and smoothly steer the lady past the window…

…and subtly and smoothly mention that particular item of clothing “looks good” in a subtle and smooth attempt to survey opinion,

At which point the fiancee will make motions like throwing up and funny gagging sounds will come out of her mouth.

This, I have learnt, means “no you are wrong, and a fool for thinking so. You have no style”.

I have learnt from repeated application of this process that I don’t know what she likes.

And of course - the ring - an expensive and life-long lasting item needs to be just right.

Imagine my panic.

Well, imagine my panic if I wasn’t applying my super Zen Ascension meditation techniques…

How can I get down on one knee and propose without a ring in hand?

Simple. Just propose when my heart was about to burst, impromptu-ly.

Impromptu is sometimes the best - no rehearsal, just seat of the pants jump in and see what the moment needs.

As you may suspect…

…it was a disaster…

In that I was smooth and suave and romantic as a blubbering, hiccuping 41 year old man can be when he’s trying to speak…

…but a success in that she said yes.

We actually went out post-proposal and found a huge, ginormous dazzler in a shop in Spain for the very reasonable sum of…

3 euros.

Four completely real CZ stones in an authentic look alike gold band (that hasn’t worn off yet) for 3 euros! A bargain!

I thought - naturally - the ring situation was resolved, but apparently not.

She wants “a real one”.

And so we’re shopping.

The upside of this for you?

Hopefully it’s a moral in cheap never lasts, or satisfies, or something like that. Especially where wedding rings are concerned.

But it’s true. You will never regret investment in something that is of value to you.

(How much is being calm, clear and content worth to you?)

So if you want to help yourself, and a brother out (I need to pay for the ring), book on to the Ascension meditation course.

Right here:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

After the webinar will do, if you’re waiting and seeing what I'm like - which is fine and totally understandable (details in the p.s.)

Go well! Arjuna _________

P.S.

webinar - Sunday 10th 8pm (UK)

The secrets of a monk: meditation and mindfulness and mindset for being effortlessly unruffled.

Cool as a cucumber in all situations. How to practice the least to get the maximum results.

Find real freedom of choice - rather than having your buttons pushed and reacting.

Some fine help on ditching stress and struggle and living a life that is 200% full:

100% enjoyment and efficiency in everything you do 100% calm, contentment and inner fulfilment

Register for the webinar here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9161850336915870209

Be like Rob - just do it!

How y’all this morning? Been hanging out with some Texans via Skype, and I do love the accent. I’m sure the fiancee will get used to it soon enough.

My good man Rob Fowler wrote to me yesterday, and I was as proud as a new father, proud as can be, proud as punch.

You see, he came along to an Ascension meditation course about seven weeks ago.

He was skeptical, but willing (one of my favourite type of lab rats).

Doubt is a wonderful thing…

…as long as you’re willing to prove it to yourself…

i.e. “does this work? I’m not sure. But how will I know unless I practice for a period of time? Hmmmm…. Therefore I will practice for a period of time and then make a decision”.

= Smart!

You can doubt and do nothing, and therefore gain nothing, you just stay there, a little stuck.

= Not so smart.

You see, the more the person doubts, but is willing to give it a go, the bigger the smile when they get the pay off.

Rob’s smile is huge at the moment.

Skeptical was he, but practice he did do, just as I suggested he should.

The result? =============

“There have been times when my head is crammed with thoughts, but no matter how I'm feeling I know things will look a darned sight better after Ascending. I love that you can't do it wrong!

Suddenly I feel there are endless possibilities in my life… I had been in somewhat of a rut… but now feel I have so many options and choices in what to do and where to go… It's almost overwhelming.

I'm continually surprised by all this!”

=============

I knew it. I told him. He trusted me enough to listen, learn, and then put into practice.

He is now set for life.

He has something that will continually grow and surprise him,

shaping his life by giving him very real freedom,

very real choice, no longer held back by self-doubt and limitation,

or stress and struggle and mental and emotional suffering.

Meaning he won’t get stuck in any more ruts,

Life will never be “so-so”.

Just living life exactly as he wants to, as fully as can be, squeezing the most out of every single moment.

So I’m super proud of him.

For being willing to do something different. To trust a stranger enough to put aside doubt and follow the so simple instructions.

And to reach out afterwards and get the help and support and guidance that is always available to the asker.

Be like Rob!

If you’re still not sure - just try it.

If you don’t like up to 30 days - I will give you your money back, fully.

Or I coach you personally like I do my private one on one clients until you get the results you want.

But don’t dilly dally, don’t sit on the fence any longer.

Time, and seats, are short.

Sign up here:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/ Have a superb day! Arjuna “proud of my boy” ______

P.S.

If you want more info before you jump in - I’m hosting a webinar on Sunday 8pm (UK time).

I got all sorts of goodies to share with you, and yet still just a taster of what I’ll be teaching over the course of the Ascension meditation weekend. It's going to be great.

For the webinar, register here:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9161850336915870209

Tune your instrument

I have several professional musician friends and one pointed out to me something I wanted to share with you. Musicians always tune their instruments, before every performance, before every practice. Always.

If you consider for a moment, your mind is your primary instrument. It is the thing that you do everything with. Everything.

Why don’t you “tune” your mind, first thing in the morning?

Why don’t you tune before any “performance”? Before you do anything of significance?

Why not tune at night, to have an enjoyable evening, to have a deep sleep?

Because the average human doesn’t know the importance of putting the mind in tune.

They think the way the mind is, is the way the mind is.

Sometimes you’re lucky and everything is firing.

Sometimes you’re unlucky and you fall apart.

Sometimes you fall apart so much it takes quite some time to put yourself back together again.

And that, to be frank, is not a nice experience.

What if it need not be about luck?

What if you could learn a systematic method for tuning your mind, making sure it plays sweet harmonies, and not discordant misery?

You’re not an average human. You’re reading this for a reason.

What do you want from your mind, and from your life?

If you're like me you want more, everything in fact. You’re a searcher.

I have what you are looking for, the very thing that - with a modicum of commitment on your behalf - will allow you to tune your mind perfectly.

When the mind is in harmony, you can really begin to live.

When you leave it to luck, you’re bound to struggle and stress.

And it’s time to make a decision whether you will, or you won’t…

If you’ve been sitting on the fence about finally figuring out how to leave stress and struggle and self-doubt and self-sabotage behind,

How to be a source of real comfort, inspiration and joy to your partner, family and friends,

To be so present and focussed the limitations of your head become irrelevant,

and each moment comes so alive, so rich and fulfilling,

then fence sit no longer:

This is the last course that I’m doing in this way for the foreseeable future. Things are changing, I’ve got some exciting plans to do things differently.

Sign up here: https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

As always - stay present, and full of peace!

Have a great day Arjuna __________

PS.

Webinar - your place - Sunday 10th April 8pm (UK time)

If you want to meet me in person first before jumping on the course, fair enough.

Here’s your chance. And I’ve got some new approaches and perspectives I thought I’d share at the same time.

It’ll help make a meditation practice so much easier and simpler, and a life so much easier and simpler.

And will just be a hint of what I’m sharing on the Ascension meditation course.

Register here for the webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9161850336915870209

I'm saying goodbye

In less than two weeks I’m doing my last Ascension meditation course. Yup - I’ve been thinking about a few things and it’s time for a change of direction.

Currently I’m full on with teaching the Army bomb disposal units to be calm and clear under pressure using - of course - meditation,

Which is super exciting:

Word is spreading in the bases and formerly super skeptical real men bloke soldiers are queueing up to be taught how to meditate.

Who would have thought?

I knew they would get this brand of no-nonsense, extremely practical, "it just works" tool that tames the mind. I just thought it would take longer to get this kind of momentum.

And increasingly more and more outdoor fellows are knocking, looking for the key to conquering their fears. To get their heads and past mishaps out of the way so they can do the things they want to do.

I’ll tell you more soon, but unless you’re a soldier or a kayaker, climber, mountain biker, surfer, skier, snowboarder, fell runner, extreme outdoor gardener, etc etc, it’s going to be tough to get on a course with me.

Which is to say:

If you have been toying with learning Ascension meditation your chances are limited.

Time is running out.

Consider this a gentle little PUSH to make a decision, and invest in a course that will forever change the way you live your life…

Forever change the way you’ve let the grey little voice in your head dictate and run everything you do.

The worry, self-doubt, the anger, the frustrations.

The stress, the sense of not being in control of your life,

Being unable to let go of the past, feeling like you are constantly being run on a hamster wheel of thoughts.

Knowing that life could be so much better, but you just don't know how to live it.

If you’re tired of any of that, and you want to choose to be calm, clear and content whenever and where ever.

To be present and alive to this moment…

Have relationships that are fulfilling and complete.

To live a life that you can say is truly worth living.

With the most simple - yet powerful - practice I could ever imagine (and I’ve imagined and looked and hunted)

Then get on board now or… well, don’t. Carry on as you are.

Seats are going. The venue is bulging full - there’s no more accommodation left (but I can point you in the direction of a B+B)

So, do not delay:

Sign up now: https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

Questions? Just email me, I’m so happy to help.

Have a great day! Arjuna

_____________

p.s.

of course if you’d like to meet me first, and I don’t blame you…

I’m going to do a webinar to explain my approach to meditation and mindfulness.

It'll be a download of sorts...

Giving all kinds of tweaks and tips and hints on what to do, how to get started, common mistakes that even long timers make - everything I can think of that would be of use to a beginner, and someone who already has a  practice.

It's going to be a doozy - register here and bring your questions: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9161850336915870209

Sunday 10th April 8pm (UK time)

See you there!

The Tibetan word for meditation is spot on

I learnt the other day that the Tibetan word for meditation is “familiarisation”.

And I thought, “how perfect!”.

You see, when you meditate the overwhelming response is to be thinking you need to get rid of your thoughts.

The idea is that when the thoughts are gone, meditation begins.

This is not so. It is the source of so much straining and trying and subsequent giving up when people try to meditate.

Meditation is exactly what the Tibetans say it is. Becoming familiar with what is already there.

NOT getting rid of anything, but seeing clearly.

Seeing clearly, with awareness, means your perspective can widen. It means you can be at peace with what is. It means your body can rest at deeper and deeper levels.

In awareness there is also choice. You have a significantly different relationship with your mind, and with your life. Choice becomes more and more real, more alive: Choice in how you live, how you react, how and what you do.

So next time you close your eyes do it to see what is there, not to get rid of, not to achieve anything.

Just sit and watch. Familiarise yourself with what presents itself to you.

If you want to know all about being more familiar with your own mind through meditation and mindfulness...

I have just the thing, a webinar for you:

Sunday 10th April 8-9pm, for more information and to register, go here:

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/9161850336915870209 It's going to be a doozy!

I'm going to outline a lot of necessary and yet uncommonly known information and practices that will make not only a practice of meditation simpler and easier, but your life simpler and easier.

Who doesn't want that?

Click on here for more info, and to register.

You know - I have to say it cos I'm really passionate about it:

The other option, if you're serious about your quality of mind and your quality of life, is just to jump in and learn Ascension meditation.

The reason I bang on so much about it is because the Ascension techniques bring you effortlessly to a state of familiarity and awareness.

They meditate for you. All you have to do is sit down and use them.

People say that they already meditate and so why should they learn Ascension? And so I get them to learn and then they see the difference. “Oh….!” The penny drops.

That’s why I’m confident enough to offer a money back guarantee. 30 days after learning if you think it hasn’t given you what I said it would give you, you get your dosh back.

I think that is supremely fair. It allows you to give Ascension meditation a decent shot, to see what happens for you. How else will you know?

So - if you’d like to come along and familiarise yourself with yourself, sign up here:

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

Time is getting closer - the course runs 15-17 April (begin 7pm Friday).

Any questions at all about all this stuff, hit reply!

Have a great day - Arjuna

The greatest athlete the world has ever seen?

The greatest athlete the world has ever seen? No, not me, but thanks all the same. I was talking about Michael Phelps.

Michael Phelps, if you don’t know, is a swimmer.

Actually, that’s a bit like saying Lionel Messi is a football player. Phelps is THE swimmer. He’s won more medals than any other Olympic athlete, ever.

What a legend.

It was one of the rare times that I as soon as it was finished, I immediately re-watched his Under Armour commercial on youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xh9jAD1ofm4

Go seek it out immediately, and if it doesn’t give you goose bumps you need a nervous system transplant (or something like that).

I have a soft spot for swimming - I was a competitive swimmer back in the day so I know a little of what it takes. 4 hours in the pool six days out of seven, four gym sessions on top of that - at least.

What impresses me the most is his consistency. His first Olympics was at 15, he’s now 31.

He’s been racing at an unbelievable level for at least 16 years. And he’s still looking for another gold medal.

What do you think his mental focus is like just to carry off that kind of training, let alone the pressure of competing?

How much do you think he listens to the whiney voice in his head?

He just does what he does to the very best he can no matter what, day in, day out.

Granted - the guy has many other boxes ticked, but awesome things get done for anyone when you get your mind in the right place.

Bruce Lee said it too: “The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus”.

Laser like focus doesn’t mean harshness. It means being able to place your attention on the thing that you want, and ignoring everything else.

And it’s less about strain and more about consistent application.

In other words - practice. That’s it. It’s what you do if you want to get better.

It helps if you practice the few things that get you results the fastest - but after learning these, the bottom line is just doing it.

Simple practice means you can have a super solid foundation in mental fitness so whatever you do, you do well, and easily.

If you are aware of how important getting your mind in the right place is to everything that you do, you just practice.

If you don’t practice, nothing happens. That’s okay too, if you’re happy with a mind that is all over the place.

That there is your choice.

If you are interested in a tool and the understanding that will get your mind tuned to perfect focus so you can make the most of everything you do, I can help.

Ascension meditation - simple, enjoyable and powerful.

You just do it, and you get results. I promise you that.

It fits into your life with the minimum of fuss. You'll look forward to practicing. I promise you that as well.

https://arjunaishaya.leadpages.co/ascensionmeditation/

Keep the Peace! - Arjuna