What is the point of contemplative practice?
*Note that these all require participation. Contemplation is not passive.
According to The Center for the Contemplative Mind in Society
“Contemplative practices are practical, radical, and transformative, developing capacities for deep concentration and quieting the mind in the midst of the action and distraction that fills everyday life. This state of calm centeredness is an aid to exploration of meaning, purpose and values. Contemplative practices can help develop greater empathy and communication skills, improve focus and attention, reduce stress and enhance creativity, supporting a loving and compassionate approach to life. “
In the Yoga Sutras, one of the definitive texts of Yoga, reported scribe Patanjali says at the beginning of the second section on Practice, that if we don’t have an action plan, our minds become dull, disturbed and distracted.
Sound familiar?
What do I do?
What is your action plan?
What are you drawn to? Pick some low hanging fruit! Reflective journaling? Walking a labyrinth? If you are drawn to the creative arts, finding the richness in the process. I love singing little medicine bundles of repeated phrases. This repetition is not focused in perfecting the piece for a performance, but to let the medicine of the piece inform and guide me. More and more of my life draws deeply from the nourishment to the soul these practices provide.
When do I Practice?
Well, if I waited to practice until I felt great, I would hardly be showing up for myself, my family, my community and the work I do in the world. I practice everyday and try to sprinkle short practices throughout the day. Whether my heart is breaking, enraged, filled with joy or dull, I practice.
What do you notice?
Contemplative practice resources me for discomfort, challenges and the intensity of these times,. It is not bypassing difficult emotions , nor does it support getting stuck in a narrative that spins and reinforces reactivity, defensiveness and blame/shame/self righteousness/pity.
I grew up in a family that over responded to EVERYTHING! It has taken years (and therapy-this is not a substitute for therapy, but can certainly support and enhance your journey of healing.) to have that space between the stimulus and response that I can consciously make a choice rather than react unskillfully.
I recognize that I have more clarity around self honoring boundaries and have more respect for the boundaries of others.
There is also clarity around being direct, not choosing to be manipulative and passive aggressive (this was super hard and still is). In the yogic tradition, this is speaking truth (Satya), grounded in nonviolence (ahimsa).
This is freedom.
How do I start?
Right where you are in this messy, beautiful life here on Earthschool.
If you like, I have created a bundle of contemplative practices from the Yogic tradition that incorporate mudras (hand positions) pranayama (breath practices) mantras (chants) asana (physical movement) and meditation. You might explore these and make them fit for you.
Click here to purchase (it is only $10!)
Self Care Contemplative Practices
I also have a wellness support program (Virtual and/or In Person) that draws from Ayurveda to tailor a wellness plan specially suited to your needs.
This is the work of my heart and I am grateful beyond measure to the practices from the Yogic tradition and the culture of South Asia that gave birth to these ongoing, living, breathing traditions of Yoga.
I am also grateful to the teachings and practices of The Celtic Wheel and the eight auspicious festivals that honor the living, breathing organism that is our planet, our home.
Finally, I honor and name the work of Joanna Macy, The Work That Reconnects and I am blessed to be in ongoing learning in all these traditions, and with this work, a member of School for the Great Turning
Om Shanti, Om Shanti, Om Shanti.
Peace, Peace, Peace.
