Excerpts from an advanced Chassidus class 1 - Expanding the vessel: how to let the light in.

Disclaimer: These recordings are an edited version of an interactive live class. The exercises described are done together and processed in the group. All this has been edited out for the privacy of the participants. If you are attempting to do these exercises alone please do so responsibly. Seek support if need be.  "the kind of light which is pnimi (absorbable) is present according to the measure of the recipient's vessel and fills it. when light and vessel unite, the vessel becomes refined to such a degree that it is possible for the vessel itself to become light." - Likkutei Dibburim  Are we available to receive what it is that we want? How does one expand that vessel i.e. the body? The body has two modes of being - constriction, fragmentation, and fear (a dysregulated nervous system) vs expansion, interconnection, and peace (a regulated nervous system).  Expanding the bodies capacity to receive through; Getting curious - what is it about this that I am afraid of? what does it mean about me? is it true? according to who? Regulating the nervous system through breath and body mindfulness  In his book, Healing Developmental Trauma, Laurence Heller talks about the far-reaching effects of being able to regulate the nervous system from a psychological perspective. Heller says: ‘Spiritual connection and meaning in life can only be found when our biology is regulated and our capacity for connection is developed. It is through connection that coherency of mind body and spirit, expansion, engaged relationship and aliveness are possible’ ‘For hundreds of years, the body, particularly in western traditions, was seen as an impediment to spirituality. We have found that a coherent biological/psychological self is a springboard to the higher self. It is only when individuals have a solid sense of who they are that they can open to the fluid nature of self.’