21st Century Yang- Bang
It baffles me how, as humans, we have have made such extraordinary discoveries + advancements – through mechanics, technology + science – and yet despite all this brilliance, we still haven’t figured out a way to exist in harmony.
We have the potential to be a diverse, abundant collective of people sharing a diverse, abundant planet, respecting our natural space even amidst our conflicting interests. That would invite a little Yin in our lives to help us re-balance. So why have we not figured it out yet? What’s with this relentless Yang-bang?
Have we forgotten what truly matters + what we don’t really need?
Do the illusions of modern comfort + success distract us from our inner well of wisdom? There’s always a bigger picture, + we each contribute our brushstrokes to it.
Jimi Hendrix said it best:
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, then we will have peace.”
Maybe that’s where it begins — each of us doing our bit to redress the balance.
Taking a few moments every day to be fully present, turning our focus inward. The Yin to the Yang
Whether it’s running, biking, yoga, meditation, hiking, golf, fishing, dancing to your favorite tune, or riding waves and snow-covered mountains — do something that immerses you in the moment.
Surrender to just being there, doing just that — no motive, no goal.
Anything that draws your awareness inward.
Because this modern day Yang pursuit of wealth + possession, power + success, on knowing it all + having it all at any cost – has deep side effects.
A ripple effect of… discontent… segregation… emptiness… fear… corruption… violence… inequality… immorality… injustice… climate imbalance.
Does it have to be that way?
Can we rise above it?
Can we balance those ripples with a more yin-ward, inward pursuit — of wisdom, compassion, presence + connection?
Imagine the possibilities…
Outdoor experiences often touch something deeply spiritual. Hiking, Biking, Surfing, Snowboarding, Skiing, Climbing, Open-water swimming, Sailing — all are workouts, yes, but they’re also works-in.
They demand passion, love + total immersion in the now.
When I drop into a trail, a snow-covered face, or a sweet yoga flow — there’s nothing else in my mind.
How liberating.
How connected.
Even if only for those fleeting moments.
But you don’t need to chase adrenaline to experience that depth.
Just engage with what — and who — you love.
Focus all five senses on it until you slip into that timeless state of being.
Add fresh air + nature whenever you can.
Mix in a spoonful of play.
And do your part to re-dress the balance.
There’s nothing else going on in my mind while I drop in on a trail or a snow covered face, or a sweet yoga flow – how liberating – how connected – just for those moments