[Chapter_Fourteen] opportunities and deep learning amidst challenges...

[Lindsey Goldberg]

Thank you so much to those of you who have responded with practical
applications of zone zero into your lives, your personal inquiry and
discovery is inspiring.



Zone Zero is not easy. Some might argue it is the inner work that is more
complex than stewardship of the earth. I’m interested to hear people’s
thoughts on this…Do you find issues of land, natural resources, ecosystemic
regeneration, cultivating soil fertility, habitat and biodiversity more
approachable than practices that encourage quiet, and deep listening of the
heart and body to harvest insight and clarity around personal priorities,
values and sense of Self. Any thoughts?



When you devote your time to self-care or Zone Zero, in the beginning we
tend to seek out what makes us feel good, we want the nectar, and to taste
the pure sweetness of life. If we stick with one practice, what starts out
feeling juicy and delicious, could take a turn as one goes deeper…An analogy
is the evolution of a relationship. During the first season of a
relationship, a couple experiences bountiful love, joy and exuberance, the
honeymoon phase. We all know it and I can’t help smiling as I think about my
own personal experiences in the “honeymoon.” J Though inevitably, the
honeymoon evolves into a deeper, more committed relationship and the
dynamics between a couple shifts, the same with a personal practice or *
sadhana*, or even a land-based project, moving from vision to assessment or
even to timeline; natural shifts common to any project, can be transitions
rich with questions, conflict as well opportunities for learning and growth.
The trick as we transition in our relationships, or *sadhana* or land-based
project, is not to run when it gets challenging or when the future looks
uncertain, but to stay, to investigate why you feel triggered; permaculture
teaches us that within a conflict or distressed ecosystem lies great
potential.



>From physical practices such as yoga, gardening, playing music writing
poetry or taking a walk in the woods to more subtle practices like
meditation or sitting on a beach facing west during sunset are great
examples of Zone Zero practices. These are acts that encourage quiet and
they soften us. Physically we relax, mentally and emotionally we settle into
the moment and let the current of life carry us back to ourselves. These
practices help us cultivate a personal equilibrium. In our collective work
to foster planetary harmony, bringing ecosystems back into balance, I think
it is vital to nurture our own personal balance, so we can most effectively
serve the world.



On the path to find the nectar, challenges that we meet, do serve a
function. Remember to stick with it, be attentive to the triggers, listen
and accept, with an expansive mind. I hope that whatever surprises you along
your path proves to be an interesting teacher.



We are nearing the new moon and the end of cycle. It has been an honor to
share with you on this forum. I hope that you gleaned something fruitful
from this conversation. I am open to feedback. I’d love to hear what you
found interesting and insightful; let me know if you are curious to connect
with more resources in the realm of Zone Zero and their applications.



In gratitude,

Lindsey

-- 
*Lindsey Goldberg, M.Ed, RYT*
Education.Environment.Art.Community.
www.livelearnengagetransform.blogspot.com
415.250.2352

Hayes Valley Farm
www.hayesvalleyfarm.com
Graze The Roof
http://grazetheroof.blogspot.com/
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