Reconnect With Nature

Much of my childhood was spent playing in the forest.  Tree limbs were my jungle gym and sticks became my excavating tools as I would dig for rocks and quartz.  I can still smell the fresh scent of the forest ground and feel the textured bark upon my toes.  As I’ve grown up, my natural affinity with nature has not only sustained me, but it has nurtured and healed me as well.  When I am in the presence of the forest, I feel embraced—I feel heard, seen and welcomed.  In an era marked by an increased disconnection from the natural world, there is a growing yearning for something that can restore balance, peace, and well-being in our lives.  Enter Shinrin-Yoku, the Japanese art of Forest Bathing.       

Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴)

Shinrin-Yoku (森林浴), which translates to “forest bathing" or “taking in the forest atmosphere," originated in Japan in the early 1980s.  It was developed as part of a national wellness program to combat the stress and health issues arising from the rapid urbanization and overwork experienced by the Japanese population.  The practice has since evolved into a popular form of ecotherapy, attracting global attention for its potential to improve mental and physical well-being.  Shinrin-Yoku, as an extension of the Japanese people's love for nature, stems from the nation's deep cultural and spiritual connections to the natural world.  This reverence for nature can be traced back to Japan's ancient Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, which have significantly influenced the country's customs, arts, and values.

The term “Shinrin-Yoku" is composed of two Japanese words: “Shinrin" (森林), meaning “forest," and “Yoku" (浴), meaning “bathing" or “immersing oneself."  Together, they represent the act of immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere, absorbing its essence, and connecting deeply with the natural world through all five senses.  The research clearly shows that there are numerous physiological benefits of Forest Bathing, such as reduced stress, anxiety, and depression.  Forest Bathing has also been found to enhance mood, focus, and creativity, while fostering a sense of calm and clarity.  The science confirms what we already intrinsically know—being immersed in nature is beneficial for our well-being.

Forest Bathing enables individuals to connect deeply with nature and experience its restorative and healing powers.  The practice is not limited to avid hikers or conservationists, but it is a practice that is open to everyone due to its focus on conscious connection.   The experience of Shinrin-Yoku is there for everyone to experience through becoming more aware of what’s around you and welcoming the forest presence into your awareness. In this expanded state, we can appreciate the beauty, tranquility, and wisdom of the natural world, allowing us to find solace, inspiration, and rejuvenation amidst the modern world's pressures and demands.

Immersing Yourself in the Forest:

Here’s a step-by-step guide for beginners to help you approach the Shinrin-Yoku experience.  Having a framework will facilitate the planning and the time you spend out in nature.

1.     Schedule a Full Day: Start by fitting the experience into your schedule.  Plan to dedicate the entire day to your Shinrin-Yoku outing so you don’t feel pressured to rush or get back in time for another commitment.  Give yourself permission to dedicate this time as a gift for your well-being. 

2.     Selecting the Ideal Setting: Choose a forested area that feels safe, inviting, and accessible.  Consider factors such as the level of human activity, accessibility, and the diversity of plant life when selecting your Shinrin-Yoku location.

3.     Setting Your Intention: Before entering the forest, set an intention for your experience, such as releasing stress, cultivating mindfulness, or deepening your connection to nature.  This intention will guide your journey and help you remain present throughout the practice.

4.     Engaging Your Senses: As you walk slowly and mindfully through the forest, immerse yourself in the sensory experience by noticing the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and taste the fresh forest aroma.  Pay attention to the nuances of the forest, such as the rustling of leaves, the fragrance of damp earth, or the sensation of sunlight filtering through the canopy. Bring all your attention upon the experience and allow your senses to soak up the healing properties of being in nature.

5.     Embracing Stillness and Presence: Find a comfortable spot to sit or stand, and spend time in stillness, allowing the forest to envelop you.  Focus on your breath and let go of any thoughts or distractions that arise, returning your attention to the present moment and the sensations of the natural world.

6.     Reflecting and Integrating: After completing your Shinrin-Yoku experience, take some time to reflect on your journey and any insights or emotions that emerged during the process.  Consider journaling about your experience or sharing it with a friend or family member to further integrate its lessons into your daily life.

A Journey of Transformation and Renewal

The ancient wisdom of nature, harnessed through Shinrin-Yoku, is a powerful tool for modern living, enabling individuals to reconnect with the natural world, heal from the stressors of contemporary life, and foster a greater appreciation for the environment.  By immersing ourselves in the breath of the living forest, we embark on a transformative journey that not only rejuvenates our minds and bodies but also instills within us a renewed sense of purpose and connection to the world around us.

As you venture into the realm of Shinrin-Yoku, remember that this practice is a deeply personal and unique experience.  Embrace the opportunity to explore and discover your own path towards healing, growth, and self-discovery.  With each step taken in the forest, allow the whispers of nature to guide you, opening your heart and mind to the beauty, wisdom, and serenity that the natural world has to offer. In the words of naturalist and environmental philosopher John Muir, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks." As you immerse yourself in the art of Shinrin-Yoku, may you find solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of wonder in the embrace of the forest.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Taoism

Rooted In Flow

My journey with Taoism began during my college years when I stumbled upon this ancient Chinese philosophical and religious tradition.  Its emphasis on living in harmony with the natural world instantly captivated me.  Rooted in indigenous Chinese beliefs and practices, Taoism has evolved through a tumultuous history, at times serving as China's official religion and at other times, nearly being eradicated during the Cultural Revolution.  Yet, Taoism has endured, and together with Confucianism, stands as one of the great philosophical traditions native to China.  I’d like to share how Taoism is still absolutely relevant to the modern-day seeker and how one of the core concepts can be folded into our lives.

The History of Taoism

Although the exact origins of Taoism are difficult to trace, it is generally believed to have developed around the 6th to 4th centuries BCE.  Lao Tzu, also known as Laozi, is a legendary figure in Chinese history and is considered the founder of Taoism.  He is believed to have lived around the 6th century BCE, although the exact dates of his life are debated among scholars.  The name "Lao Tzu" can be translated as "Old Master" or "Venerable Master," reflecting the reverence with which he is regarded.  He is traditionally attributed as the author of the Tao Te Ching, one of the most important texts in Taoist philosophy.  It offers profound wisdom on living in harmony with the natural world, emphasizing the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and balance in life.

In Taoism, "the Way" (Tao) is a fundamental concept that represents the natural order and harmony of the universe.  The Tao is often described as an indescribable force that underlies all existence and cannot be fully comprehended through human language or thought.  It is the ultimate reality, the source of all things, and the guiding principle of the cosmos.  The Tao is both transcendent and immanent, meaning that it exists beyond the physical world while also being present within it.  I can still recall my young mind grappling with this definition/non-definition of the Tao.  As a young student, I found this notion challenging to comprehend, but I've since discovered that the true essence of Taoism can only be grasped by living its teachings.

Over time, my understanding of the Tao has evolved. Once, I perceived the Tao as synonymous with movement, but now I recognize it as a Presence that encompasses movement without being defined by it.  Meaning, the movement is secondary to the primary position of expanding consciousness that is still, yet active.  This seeming contradiction is central to Taoist principle of “wu-wei”, or the art of effortless action.  Wu-wei litrally means “no action” or “non-action”.  It is the practice of moving in harmony with the natural flow of the universe, allowing life to unfold without resistance or struggle.    

The Taoist Farmer

There's an ancient Taoist story of a farmer who lost his horse.  Instead of lamenting his misfortune, he remained calm and accepted the turn of events.  Soon, the horse returned with three wild horses, and the farmer's neighbors praised his good luck.  However, the farmer's son broke his leg while trying to tame one of the wild horses, and the neighbors sympathized with the farmer's bad luck.  Yet, the farmer remained accepting and detached, and soon after, an army invaded the region, conscripting all able-bodied young men.  The farmer's son was spared due to his injury, and the farmer's neighbors marveled at his good fortune.  This story illustrates the essence of wu-wei, accepting the natural flow of life without resistance.  The farmer didn’t get attached to the idea of good or bad, but simply allowed the unfolding of life to flow uninhibited.

Cultivating Wu-wei

When it comes to seeking our purpose, this cornerstone of Chinese philosophy can be our guide.  From the perspective of The Living Art, finding your purpose is about aligning with your greater potential.  I explore this topic further in my post “What Is My Purpose?”  This core alignment requires a certain flexibility because it’s not a predetermined path.  In this context, wu-wei encourages us to remain open and receptive to the natural flow of life instead of being rigid and tense.  By embracing non-action and releasing our preconceived notions of what our purpose should be, we create space for the universe to reveal our true path.

Cultivating wu-wei in regard to aligning with your potential can be a very supportive practice that involves:

1. Trusting intuition: Pay attention to the subtle messages and synchronicities that guide you toward your path.  Open up to a greater intelligence and trust the wisdom of your inner voice.

2. Embracing uncertainty: Do not fear the unknown.  Instead, welcome the mystery and potential for growth that comes with uncertainty so you can welcome a new vision into your life.

3. Being adaptable: Remain flexible and open to change.  Understand that your potential may reveal itself in layers and evolve over time, so adapt as needed while you let go and follow.

4. Mindful observation: Pay attention to the present moment without judgment or expectation.  Notice the subtle cues from your environment by learning to “listen” and respond accordingly.

5. Surrender: Accept that you cannot control every aspect of life.  Release the need to micromanage and trust the natural process of unfolding that is inviting you on a journey.

6. Patience: Allow things to unfold in their own time.  Do not force progress or rush toward a specific outcome, thinking you must pounce on something or else you’ll miss out.

7. Being present: Anchor yourself in the present moment.  This is the only place where true change and transformation can occur, so it’s an essential to become grounded in the Now.

8. Nurtured by nature: Nature serves as a profound teacher in Taoist thought.  Observe the countless lessons on harmony, resilience, and the cyclical nature of existence to harmonize with nature.

Taoists believe that by understanding and living in harmony with the Tao, individuals can achieve inner peace, balance, and spiritual growth.  This involves cultivating virtues such as simplicity, humility, and compassion, and embracing the natural flow of life without resistance.  When we limit ourselves, we impinge upon the effortless flow of the Tao and create friction in our own lives.  Letting go then, becomes a restoration of what is intrinsic and natural within all of us.  Spending time in the presence of nature allows us to emulate the fluidity of water, the rootedness of trees, and the boundlessness of the sky to bring us closer to the wisdom of the Tao.

Lao Tzu's Advice

If we could sit with Lao Tzu and ask him about our purpose, I wondered how he might respond?  I imagine that he would likely advise us to embody wu-wei as we seek our purpose, allowing the answers to emerge naturally rather than forcing a specific outcome.  Lao Tzu might say to us, "Do not search for your purpose, but instead let it find you.  Move through life with grace and ease, aligned with the Tao, and your purpose will reveal itself."  We can then follow his guidance by practicing stillness, being present to life and embracing the journey because purpose is the process of aligning with potential—a natural flourishing of the Tao.  By integrating wu-wei into our daily lives, we create the conditions for our purpose to reveal itself organically. Through non-doing, we open ourselves to the wisdom of the universe, allowing our true path to emerge and guide us toward a life of meaning, fulfillment, and harmony.

The ancient wisdom of Taoism offers a refreshing perspective on life, urging us to slow down, embrace simplicity, and cultivate inner balance.  By integrating the principles and practices of Taoism into our daily lives, we can embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth, ultimately realizing our true potential.  As we align ourselves with the Tao and embody its timeless teachings, we empower ourselves to create a life of harmony, fulfillment, and inner peace, transcending the limitations of our modern world and embracing the boundless possibilities that lie within.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Unlock Your Inner Poet

A Gateway To Your Creativity:

In the vast tapestry of human expression, poetry has long been a medium through which we capture the fleeting beauty of our experiences, feelings, and thoughts.  Life can be complex and at times chaotic where conversational words cannot capture the vastness of our experiences.  Writing poetry is a way to pierce through the noise and connect with something deeper.  It has helped me process layered emotions and profound insight that ordinary sentence structures alone could not do justice.  Through the creative use of words, a poet is someone who can turn ordinary experiences and observations into something evocative and memorable.  In this blog post, I’ll be introducing you to a form of poetry that opens the door for all of us to put our poetic hats on and step into the enchanting world of word art. 

A Brief History of Haiku

Among the myriad forms of poetry, there is a traditional Japanese form of poetry called 俳句, or haiku.  The first character 俳 (hai) means “actor” or “comic,” which hits at the playful and creative nature of haiku poetry.  The second character 句 (ku) means “phrase” or “verse” and refers to the structure and form of the poem.  Haiku dates back to the 17th century and is characterized by its short, three-line structure, with a syllabic pattern of 5-7-5.  This classic syllable structure makes it stand out as an approachable format that can readily be adopted, even by the complete novice.  Haiku often focuses on nature and the changing seasons, capturing the essence of a moment in time with vivid imagery and powerful emotion.  It is characterized by its brief and evocative nature, and it is a powerful way to connect with our creative essence and discover the transformative power of simplicity.   

One of the most famous haiku poets is Matsuo Basho, who was born near Kyoto, Japan in 1644.  He is considered one of the greatest haiku poets in Japanese literature and is often referred to as the "father of haiku." Born as Matsuo Kinsaku, he later adopted the pen name Basho, derived from the banana tree (basho) that was gifted to him by a disciple.  Basho played a significant role in elevating haiku to a highly regarded form of literary expression with his mastery of form along with his depth and simplicity.

Basho's haiku often interweave observations of the natural world with human emotions and experiences, reflecting the Japanese cultural and spiritual connection to nature. His poems capture the essence of a moment, evoking a sense of both beauty and impermanence.  Basho's haiku demonstrate a profound depth of thought and feeling, often exploring themes of solitude and the passage of time.  His poems have remained accessible and relatable due to their simplicity and clarity.

Here is an example of his work (ume is a Japanese plum tree that flowers early, often symbolizing the start of spring):

English Translation:

The spring haze.

The scent already in the air.

The moon and ume.

 Embrace The Simple Moments:

The serenity of the moment shines through Basho’s poetry, but haiku can also be used to capture the essence of everyday life.  Even the most mundane aspects of life can be transformed into poetry through the lens of haiku.  Here's a playful example for inspiration (notice the 5-7-5 syllable structure):

Dirty laundry piled,

A mountain of socks and shirts—

Washer sings its song.

Everyday Haiku

This haiku shows how everyday life, infused with creativity and humor, can be elevated to a form of art.  Washing dishes?  Turn it into haiku.  Stuck in traffic?  Sounds like an opportunity to be creative!  Creativity is the key here.  It plays a crucial role in our lives as it contributes to our overall well-being, allowing us to express our thoughts, emotions, and experiences.  This leads to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our inner world. Haiku poetry encourages this self-expression by capturing moments and emotions in a concise yet powerful manner.  It enhances our ability to adapt because creative thinking helps us approach problems and challenges from different perspectives, enabling us to find innovative solutions.  Haiku, with its focus on imagery and succinct language, trains our minds to distill complex ideas and emotions into their core essence, sharpening our problem-solving abilities.  By embracing the art of haiku, we tap into the wellspring of our imagination and engage in a practice that benefits our minds, hearts, and souls.

ready to explore your creativity?

Let’s discover the poet within with some guiding tips to help you begin. Remember, you don’t need to be trained as a poet or be a practicing artist to create your own haiku. Follow the outlined guide below and stay curious as you explore the possibilities. 

 Practical Tips for Starting a Haiku Practice:

1. Observe your surroundings: Haiku often captures the essence of a moment or scene. Pay attention to the beauty of nature, the changing seasons, and the small details in your everyday life.

2. Focus on imagery: Use vivid, sensory language to paint a picture in the reader's mind.

3. Keep it simple: Haiku is about expressing a moment or emotion in a concise, powerful way. Don't overcomplicate your message.

4. Practice the 5-7-5 structure: This syllabic pattern helps to create a natural rhythm in your poetry, adding to its beauty and impact.  Clap out the syllables to keep them within the structure of 5-7-5.

5. Reflect on your emotions: Haiku often evokes a sense of wonder, melancholy, or joy. Tap into your emotions and let them guide your writing.

6. Write regularly: Make haiku writing a part of your daily or weekly routine to strengthen your creative muscle and hone your poetic skills.

7. Let go of judgement: Use this as an opportunity to have fun and give your inner critic a vacation because haiku is a personal form of expression, unique to you and the moment.

For those who may feel intimidated by the idea of trying their hand at haiku, remind yourself that there are no expectations or defined outcomes in the realm of creativity.  Haiku is an invitation to explore your inner world and share your unique perspective.  If you find it challenging to incorporate into an already packed schedule, then maybe you approach it as a way to process stressful situations or add humor to a tense moment.  Experiment and embrace the process while being kind to yourself as you learn and grow.  Give the process a chance to take root before you quit and deem yourself a failure.  The creative process asks you to come take a swim and saturate in the mystery of the adventure.   

Haiku poetry offers a simple yet powerful way to unlock your inner artist, explore your creativity, and engage with the world around you.  Embrace the beauty and simplicity of this poetic form, and you'll not only enrich your creative life but also discover a new way of seeing and appreciating the wonders of everyday existence.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Creative Becoming

Heartbeat of an Artist

For the artist, there is something that seeks expression.  It is a longing, a desire and a propulsion to create what is yet unknown into the manifest world.  I didn’t understand it at the time, but my third-grade teacher was correct when she pulled my mother aside and told her I would be an artist.  For years I thought it meant being a visual artist.  I graduated from college with a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies and Studio Art with a concentration in Buddhism and photography.  My path into the world, however, was unclear.  All these years later, after countless meandering paths through life, I can finally see my own unique artform. 

The Creativity Component

From a classical perspective, to be an artist is to engage in the expression of ideas, emotions, and experiences through various forms of media such as painting, music, writing, or performance.  An artist uses their imagination and skills to create works that evoke feelings, provoke thoughts, or inspire others.  They are the alchemists who transform the mundane into the extraordinary, the abstract into the tangible, and the silence into symphonies.

One critical component in the artist’s toolbox is creativity.  It is the ability to generate original ideas, concepts, or solutions, often by combining existing elements in new and innovative ways.  An artist who is empowered with this tool means they can think outside the box, take risks, and explore new possibilities.  They are guided by a curiosity that helps them to continue trying and remixing things, like a scientist in a lab—to approach problems or tasks with an open mind and innovative thinking.  Creativity is the spark that ignites new ways of interpreting the world and enables the conception of something novel. 

Being creative, however, is not limited to the realm of “artist” as it’s an inherent aspect of the human experience.  It permeates every facet of our lives, from our most basic survival instincts to our most profound emotional and intellectual pursuits.  Creativity enables us to devise innovative solutions and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring our survival and success.  In social interactions, humor, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex social situations are all manifestations of our creative nature.  The ability to imagine and think abstractly is a fundamental aspect of human creativity.  Our curiosity drives us to explore the unknown, ask questions, and seek new knowledge, fueling innovation and discovery.

 A Spiritual Quest 

Since graduating from college, two things have been abundantly clear—my passion for the quest of Truth and the pursuit of self-evolution.  Unbeknownst to me, my spiritual path has been leading me through the alchemical terrain of inner transformation where art and being creative merge.  My body of work here at The Living Art has emerged from this intersection.   I have been a visual artist, but my potential comes alive in the sacred space of metamorphosis where the transcendent nature of being a living art is awakened within each of us.   This is my gift and my true artform.

The Canvas Within

If being creative is innate to being human, then by default, we are all artists in our own right.  The canvas is not external, but an internal space that we consciously create as we do our inner work to emerge embodied.  Purpose is integrated into potential because we are looking beyond what is expected or adopted due to outside influences.  This is a process of distillation and leaves behind what is original; the dimension where we all shine.  In this work, we paint upon the canvas with the colors of kindness, forgiveness, acceptance, courage, and peacefulness to become.    

 Creativity in Everyday 

The art of becoming is a process and one that The Living Art workshops explore in depth.  However, we can get started by inviting more opportunities to be consciously creative in how we show up and greet the moment.  We can shape and color our lives and the world around us with our unique blend of experiences, emotions, and ideas.  Here are some different ways to get started:

• Seek the extraordinary in the ordinary: Challenge yourself to find beauty, meaning, and inspiration in the mundane aspects of daily life.  Set a time each day to observe the world around you with fresh eyes and appreciate the subtle miracles that often go unnoticed.

• Cultivate mindful curiosity: Approach every experience with a sense of wonder and a genuine desire to learn.  Ask questions, explore new perspectives, and stay open to the possibility of discovering something new and unexpected.

• Embrace vulnerability: Commit to sharing one authentic thought, feeling, or experience with someone you trust each week.  By opening up to others, you'll create deeper connections and encourage greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance in your relationships.

• Transform challenges into opportunities: When faced with obstacles, take a step back and brainstorm at least three creative solutions.  Instead of dwelling on limitations, focus on the possibilities that emerge from stepping outside your comfort zone.

• Practice active listening: Engage with others in meaningful conversations and truly listen to their stories, ideas, and perspectives.  This exchange of thoughts and experiences can inspire new insights and foster creative growth.

• Visit art galleries and museums: Plan a visit to an art gallery or museum once a month to immerse yourself in creative environments. Go with the intention of learning about what inspired the artist and how they chose to interpret that inspiration into a manifested form.

• Read books on creativity: Set a goal to read at least one book on creativity every two months.  This could be books on artistic techniques, the creative process, or the lives of famous artists.  These resources can offer valuable insights on nurturing your own creative lifestyle.

New Beginnings Await.

Creativity is not only an integral aspect of being an artist but also a key component of our human existence.  By embracing and cultivating our creativity, we open ourselves up to a more nourishing and fulfilling life.  When we are available and receptive, as opposed to closed-down and shut off, we’re in an expanded state of being that is prime for creating art.  Not through a physical medium, but through the inner-scape of who you become.  “Creative Becoming” is therefore, the inward facing, conscious experience of crafting yourself to be the living art.    

Creativity is a doorway.  It is an access point to a more enriching life because it grounds us into the experience of life, instead of unconsciously floating through it.  We’ll begin to wake up and make new connections within ourselves to become courageous explorers who venture within to bring forth previously hidden treasures.  The true value of life resides here.  By integrating a creative approach into your daily life, you'll not only invite more opportunities for creative expression but also foster a deeper connection with your true self, unveiling the inner masterpiece that resides within.  Embrace the living art that you are, and let it inspire and transform you as you journey through the beautiful tapestry of life.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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Beyond Happiness

Externalized Pursuits

In our modern lifestyle, we are constantly bombarded with images and messages promoting an idealized version of happiness.  The marionette of happiness tells us we will finally be at peace when we have found the dream job, the loving partner, or the perfect fill in the blank.  But what if we've been asleep and sleepwalking towards something that can never quench our thirst?  No matter how enticing and convincing the illusion may be, the external world is not capable of filling you. 

Peacefulness is at the core of what we all desire.  It’s there, embedded within us.  For some it is more accessible than others, but it’s like a silent heartbeat that animates all of us.  In the extroverted landscape of our current society, happiness has become a misdirection. Why?  Because it is too often connected with gaining something outside of ourselves.  True peacefulness is not about the accumulation of external things nor is it the story of an externally focused life.  Rather, it is about turning our gaze inward and taking charge of managing our own well-being from within.  In this blog post, I’d like to explore the concept of peacefulness, how it differs from our modern definition of happiness, and how we can cultivate this essential quality within ourselves.

The Illusion of Happiness

Happiness, as we've come to understand it in our culture, is often tied to external circumstances.  We believe that once we have achieved a certain level of success, recognition, or material wealth, we will finally be happy.  But this pursuit of happiness is elusive; we are always striving for more, never truly satisfied with what we have.  Even once we attain the “thing” we’ve been chasing, it offers only a temporary charge of relief.  The hunger will return and throw you back into the hunt for happiness.  This constant striving can leave us feeling empty, disconnected, and ultimately unfulfilled.

The journey of self-discovery asks us to become conscious of our unconscious patterns, so we can wake up and make new choices that are in alignment with our innate potential.  No longer hemorrhaging our life energy and paying homage to false idols, all the while becoming more and more depleted within ourselves.  Continuing on the illusion of happiness treadmill is not only exhausting, but unnecessary.  We mistakenly believe that finding peace is somehow connected to "being happy" and that this will be achieved once the perfect circumstances arise in our lives. However, this mindset only serves to perpetuate our dissatisfaction and discontent.

Redefining Peacefulness

Being peaceful is an inner quality.  It’s not something you can pretend to embody or force yourself to accept because it is a state of being.  It arises as a result of digesting the true nature of life—that we can react, or we can respond to the moment.  When we react, we become entangled and drift further into the illusion of separation.  Emotions such as anger, frustration, and shame take root and we become lost to these powerful reactions, swept up in the drama.  When we respond, we are residing in Awareness and can make a conscious choice about how to manage ourselves.  Anger can still arise, but awareness allows us to be conscious of this reaction.  Meaning, we won’t follow it into the grips of chaos because we are going to choose a new outcome within ourselves.  In this way, being in control of how we show up in life is the path to peacefulness. 

When we remain focused on the external world as the provider of how we feel within ourselves, we are most certainly setting ourselves up for a challenging and ultimately miserable existence.  For example, you are in line for a significant promotion, and you feel anxious anticipation because your self-worth is tied up in the result.  You get the promotion, happy celebration.  You don’t get the promotion, dejected depression.  What if instead, you approached the situation through the lens of Awareness as an opportunity to grow, no matter what the outcome?  Then, we are inviting peacefulness into our lives because we are not being defined by the moment, but we are defining the moment.    

Experience Makes It Yours

To fully comprehend this internal shift, it must be awakened within us.  No amount of reading or studying can replace the authenticity of experience.  I’ve created an exercise to facilitate this process so you can set yourself up for success.  You’re going to choose one area of your life to begin with where you can consciously set up the parameters beforehand.  This way, you will already have the framework in place so you can create the space for Awareness to meet you.  Let's explore this technique that will help you nurture inner peace and transform your life. 

A Process to Cultivate Peacefulness

• For this exercise, you’ll need a journal and writing utensil.

• Set aside at least 30 minutes and start by identifying one situation in your life where you feel happy when you get outcome A and you feel upset if you get outcome B.  For example, you feel happy when traffic is light, and you feel annoyed when it is heavy.  You feel happy when your daily meeting is short, and you feel frustrated with it drags on. Write down your answer. 

  • Talk more about the situation and explore your own reactions.  Observe yourself and explain in as much detail as you can what happens when you get the outcome you want and what happens when you don’t.

• Now, if you remove the outside situation that triggers a response within you, how would you like to feel?  You have complete control over how you feel in the situation, how would you like to feel instead?  Inspired?  Grateful?  Calm?  Write out your responses and be mindful not to get caught up in the mind chatter of, “That will never happen”.

• Next, make a list of things that can support you in feeling the emotions you wrote about above.  If you are driving and get stuck in traffic, maybe you wrote down that you’d like to feel inspired.  What would help you feel inspired?  Would it be listening to an uplifting audio book?  A favorite podcast?  Or a certain style of music that eases your mind?

• Get prepared so that next time you are in whatever situation, you are ready to become conscious and take action. In this way, you have prepped the inner-scape beforehand so you are ready to make a new choice instead of defaulting to your usual unconscious habit.

• Finally, put it into action.  When you are faced with the situation you highlighted, use the resources you’ve prescribed for yourself.  If you don’t actively use the process, it will have absolutely no benefit for you. 

Embracing the Journey

Make a concerted effort to carry through with the above process.  It is a starting point and one that can be expanded out into other areas of your life.  You will see firsthand how it works and this experience is what you can build off of.  If you are met with resistance, say “hello, resistance!” and observe what is happening so you can find creative solutions to support yourself.  Remember, giving up isn’t a solution when change is what you seek. 

The path to peacefulness is a journey of self-discovery, requiring us to examine our beliefs, thoughts, and actions.  As we redefine peacefulness and shift our focus from external circumstances to our inner world, we can cultivate a life of contentment and balance.  The above exercise is proof that you are in control and can consciously respond to life instead of unconsciously reacting to life.  By implementing these creative tips, we can foster a sense of peacefulness that transcends the illusion of happiness.  As we embrace this new way of being, we become empowered to create a life that is not defined by the external world but rather by the deep and abiding peace that resides within us.

I help people align with their potential. If you’re ready to find a deeper connection with what truly matters, click here.

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