The Force is Within Us…
I like to say we always need to leave space. Space to feel, to expand, to rest, to explore, space for possibilities, and space to surprise ourselves. And so I admit, even though I loved the first 3 movies as a kid, (and yes the Ewokes too), a Stars Wars inspired post is a surprise to me!
Our Christmas this year was spent in Northern California with my husband’s side of the family, which includes my two nieces who are six and 11 years old. My husband is a film buff and wanted us all to go see the new Star Wars movie, The Force Awakens.
To prepare for this, we decided to watch the proceeding six films, one per day. (I admit to feeling this was a bit excessive at first but soon was right on board.) My excitement grew with each movie we watched. I even started posting my favorite quotes from the films to my Facebook yoga page and Instagram account, along with some fun photos of my nieces doing yoga with me. (Thank you girls!)
As I watched the movies I felt a lot of what I have been writing about, feeling, and teaching in many ways echoed back to me in a language that is simple, clear and concise. As a student and teacher I connected with messages about thoughts clouding our minds (the maya or illusion); the power of intuition and not chalking things up to coincidence; the connections between people and how we move through our karma and dharma; about satya, truth; and even some wise and beautiful words about death and retuning to source (our drop returning to the ocean).
Now, we all have our favorite Stars Wars quotes, or are at least probably aware of some of them. I realize if you Google search “Star Wars” and “yoga” or “philosophy”, a lot comes up. So I am in no way claiming to be an expert in this. I simply found much joy in watching these movies together with those who grew up with them like I did and also watching a new generation’s reaction to them.
It was fun to find space to practice in another way - and to put this list together. I think finding space to balance work and play, in finding lightness while staying grounded, is very yoga- (or Yoda-) like! Enjoy.
“Our meeting was not a coincidence. Nothing happens by accident.” - Qui Gon Jinn to Anakin Skywalker, The Phantom Menac
“Be mindful of your thoughts Anakin. They’ll betray you.” - Obi Wan, Attack of the Clones
“Truly wonderful, the mind of a child is.” - Yoda, Attack of the Clones
“Death is a natural part of life. Rejoice for those around you who transform into the Force." - Yoga, Revenge of the Sith
“Well, the Force is what gives a Jedi his power. It's an energy field created by all living things. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the galaxy together.” – Obi Wan, Star Wars: A New Hope
“[Luke:] I can’t believe it. [Yoda:] That is why you fail.” The Empire Strikes Back
“Do. Or do not. There is no try.” - Yoda, The Empire Strikes Back
“Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering.” - Yoda, Return of the Jedi
“I am no Jedi, but I know the Force. It moves through and surrounds every living thing. Close your eyes…feel it…the light…it’s always been there…it will guide you." – Maz Kanata, The Force Awakens
“Listen, "big deal". You got another problem. Women always figure out the truth. Always.” - Han Solo, The Force Awakens