Doris-Owanda Johnson: "The Wheel"
I'm sitting in the garden in a comfortable wooden chair, underneath a lovely shade tree. My feet are propped up on a table. Sweet scents of lavender, rosemary and other herbs and flowers offer an atmosphere of peace, spiritual reverence and physical convalescence here at [Tassajara Zen Mountain Retreat Center](http://www.sfzc.org/tassajara/).
To be quite honest, I have needed this respite for quite some time. I was definitely "on the wheel," feeling like I was running in circles. Even with good nutrition, exercise and sleep, life was beginning to feel out of balance.
Ah, "the wheel." When thinking of "the wheel," the image arises of a pet mouse in its little cage that walks or runs on its wheel (kind of like a treadmill...) because it seems to be the only choice - like it has to. For human beings, there are two aspects of being on the wheel. One is the notion of always having to do something, be somewhere, work-work-work, in order to be successful, which ultimately creates imbalance in life. The other is the emotional aspect of continual fear-doubt-worry, of needing or wanting to change something that may be out of our realm of control.
Being on the wheel contributes greatly to stress, which in turn creates and contributes to chronic illness and inflammation - especially when nutritional and other imbalances also exist.
Tassajara provided just the respite and the balance I needed. Nestled in a canyon surrounded by mountains of the Los Padres National Forest, Tassajara is, in essence, a Zen Buddhist Monastery that accepts guests from April - September. Originally land of the native Esselen people, Tassajara was established by Shunryu Suzuki Roshi in the 1960's. Very little of the environmental landscape has changed; few modern amenities are available (no wi-fi, cell phone reception or electricity). But there are sulfur hot springs, plenty of time to read and meditate, lots of stars and crickets at night, honest, loving, caring people, and excellent vegetarian food!
Of course, I also took a small supply of acupuncture paraphernalia with me and did some self-treatments. These helped me to be willing to get off the wheel, balance my organ systems, calm my spirit, and chill out.
In essence, I enjoy all of what I do. Non-doing is also a vital part of being a Human Being. Non-doing rejuvenates, re-aligns, allows for groundedness and centeredness. I am realigned with my purpose; I continue to enjoy what I do, and love life even more.
I recommend the same for you. Even if you are unable to go to a place like Tassajara, get off the wheel for a few moments. Have a cup of tea. Quiet your mind. Take a deep breath. Know that all is well.
Doris-Owanda Johnson, L.Ac.
Heart & Soul Institute 1736 Westwood Blvd. Suite 202 Los Angeles, CA 90024 310-475-8018