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Vision Quests and Prayer Flags

6/7/2013

6 Comments

 
Picture
This June will mark the 7th year since the death that changed the trajectory of my life. I struggle with what to "do" on the "anniversary." The date always seems to loom just around the corner marking time. Nonetheless, it is significant. It's the day I changed. It's the day I was uprooted, and eventually replanted with the wisdom in my bones that death brings. It's how I got here, teaching yoga for grief support and being drawn to walk alongside others who have experienced a loss. 

I decided a few years back that I wanted to go to the mountains each June, to reflect on my own experience of loss and growth, in a place where I can immerse myself in the vastness and wonder of it all. This year, at summer solstice, I'm going to hike "Vision Quest Ridge" in Nordegg, Alberta. A short, steep hike to panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and Abraham Lake.  As per the name, this hike passes an old vision quest site, which drew me in.  It seemed supportive and appropriate that we would be on ancient native land, where so many people before have been to seek spiritual guidance and purpose. You can see photos of it by clicking here.

I've heard from others who have done this hike that there are prayer flags tied in a tree to mark the site. That inspired me to take a prayer flag with me, to create ritual and ceremony around the intention of my hike. I've seen them for purchase at a variety of stores, but I hesitated to buy one for myself because I didn't  understand the deeper meaning of the symbols and prayers inscribed upon them.  Nevertheless, I love the image of prayer flags strung along high mountain ridges with the wind  carrying the prayer across the land and to all beings. I knew that if I were to hang a prayer flag on this hike up Vision Quest Ridge, it would have to be a wish that arose from my heart about love and loss, life and death. So, I thought, "why not make my own?" 

A quick google search revealed that, not only is it fairly easy, it's something (I think) I can do! 

So I went to a fabric store and I bought small scraps of fabric - which is actually quite cheap. You can "fill a bag" with scrap material for $8.00. I chose any piece that "spoke" to me - both in colour and in texture. I also bought a small sewing kit, some fabric adhesive, and even some embellishments like patches, and buttons.  The grand total for my prayer flag project kit = $25.00. 

My next step is to be quiet and still and listen to what arises. What prayer do I want to share? What do I want to be carried to the top of a mountain by me, and then carried across the lands by the wind? 

I'll update this blog on my progress and will also submit my final flag to The Prayer Flag Project; which is "a collective project spreading peace, goodwill and kindness, one flag at a time." This project was created in 2011 by Vivika Hansen DeNegre. She invites people from around the world to create their own flags and hang them outside,   to have the sentiments carried by the wind to all the wind touches.  She then posts photos of each flag on her blog. A virtual sharing of the prayer, I suppose.  It's beautiful. 

Stay tuned...I'll keep you posted on my progress.
Until next time....when the sewing begins...

Namaste,
Sandy

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6 Comments
Michelle
6/7/2013 02:36:43 pm

I love this idea, looking forward to hearing more.
M

Reply
Patti
6/8/2013 12:18:13 am

Beautiful! P.

Reply
Jule Briese
6/8/2013 09:33:49 am

Sandy it was very touching to read how you have chosen to honour Cam's memory. and the healing it will continue to unfold. .I was in 2 of the seminars where you shared your story.

blessings

Jule

Reply
Doug
6/12/2013 12:22:02 pm

The life, legacy and love of Cam continues to impart courage, grace and hope as you grow in your healing of reconciliation of his death. We are honored to be companions along your life's journey.

Reply
Ruth Turner
6/30/2013 12:29:49 am

Having sat with you through many classes with Alan, you are like a friend, that even though not seen often, reside in my heart. The 8th Anniversary of the death of my Don is June 29th. It continues to amaze me how his life and death has encouraged me to grow in ways I never would have imagined. Companioning other widows and widowers and the friendships gained have become my life. Always wishing you the best. Ruth

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Sandy link
7/1/2013 01:33:36 pm

Hi Ruth, So nice to hear from you! I remember all of the good work you have been doing in your community. It was inspiring to hear you speak of your life's work... It's such a meaningful legacy of love....thank you for your comment. Yoga for Grief Support has become mine - it's my passion and my heart's work. Hugs to you! Sandy

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    Author

    Sandy Ayre
    Occupational Therapist
    Yoga Instructor
    Death and Grief Studies Certificate

    Sandy offers in-person Yoga for Grief Support classes in Edmonton, and world-wide online. 

    ​Learn more about her here.


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  • Home
  • Classes
    • Group Yoga For Grief Support >
      • FAQ
    • Online Yoga Programs >
      • January-April-Schedule
      • Navigating Grief
      • FAQ and Policies
    • Guided Audio Practice - Online >
      • FAQ and Policies
    • Workshops and Speaking Engagements
    • Mentorship for Yoga Teachers
  • Resources
  • Blog
  • Newsletter
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