Joyfull Living – July 2014

It’s summer. Guests are coming. Trips are being planned. We are busy planning all the exciting events we can fit into our summer. The first thing we compromise because we are too busy is our self-care routines. We skip workouts, yoga class and meditation, and we can end up with high levels of stress which can cause health problems. Studies show that our ability to maintain a state of happiness is directly linked to how much time we invest in our inner well-being. They all show that quiet time and meditation are crucial ingredients to a lasting state of happiness. The misconception that meditation is just about “shutting off” the mind makes most people think that they can’t do it. Let’s talk about it as developing your ability to have moments of presence and quality “Me” time. You can think of it as practicing redirecting your thoughts toward what you want to feel.

Giving yourself quiet time everyday is a simple way to keep your stress levels down and cultivate a happy heart and mind. I didn’t say meditate; just quiet time for you to be with you. This practice has some of the same relaxing benefits as meditation. Spending undisturbed, quiet time alone gives your mind an opportunity to clear tension, renew itself and improves brain function. It allows you to deepen your relationship with the wisdom of your heart and cultivate a lasting sense of wellbeing.

Practicing Quiet Time: I suggest you do the following in the morning when your mind is rested—but anytime is a good time. You can take your morning coffee or tea somewhere undisturbed and keep your goal clear:

This is a time for me to connect with my inner self.

  • Start by focusing on your breath as it flows in and out of your nose. Then take a deep breath into your belly, filling your whole body and pausing for 3 to 10 seconds; then let it out through your nose slowly. Do that at least three times.
  • As you let your breath move gently and with ease, mentally ask yourself: ”How are you?” Don’t rush to answer. Just connect with whatever you are feeling. This is not a time to be judgmental but to simply BE with “what is.” If you mind wanders, try to stay present and focused on your breath: breathing in Peace, breathing out Peace.
  • On a blank paper, write whatever you are feeling, without judgments. If you feel resistance, fine; then feel that. This is simply about clearing your mind.
  • Give yourself your full, undivided attention. As you learn to listen to yourself, you become a better listener for others.
  • You can close with an affirmation like: “I am opening to the highest opportunity of this day for me and the higher good of all.”
  • Before you stop, allow time to think of up to 10 things you feel grateful for today.

Practice this process for a minimum of 7 minutes a day (up to an hour) for at least 40 days and see what happens.

In 1678, John Bunyan wrote in his great work “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” “If we have not quiet in our minds, outward comfort will do no more for us than a golden slipper on a gouty foot.” It was true then and it’s true now. Even though it’s summer.

If you want to acquire tools and experience a deeper connection to your inner, quiet space, you can join our Sunday online meditations, come to a JoyFull yoga class and/or to the next Sound Healing. Call or email for more information. Breathe in gratitude. Live in Joy. © Louise Lavergne 2001-20114