The Master Teacher

A circle of 14 students, 3 assistants and one Master teacher has gathered for the past three days for Chester's Deep Tissue class. It is with reverence and awe that we find ourselves back in class with Chester only ten weeks into his rehabilitation after surgery. As he says, "changes, changes", and indeed class looks a little bit different this time around. Yet I am struck by how much is the same.

As the circle sinks into the Anal Breath, settling into a relaxed presence, a luxurious spaciousness is achieved. From here, the magic flows freely.

As Chester guides us in approaching the body with "exquisite care and whole hearted love of the flesh", we begin touching one another with beautiful care and kindness. From here, we fully meet one another.

As we allow our whole beings the space and permission to be present, emotions flow freely and there is space to hold both the raucous laughter and the sweet sorrow.

As the Master Teacher returns to the classroom, the profundity of his teachings is crystal clear. To be fully alive and awake, to meet one another as embodied allies, to be breathing consciously, to allow all of our bodily wisdom. The simplicity of the teaching is disarming, and as we sink into the learning together, the sweetness is palpable.

And as we continue through this two-week course, we will be sinking deeper in, holding the mystery and awe in our hands and hearts.