So, here's my reflection on how to approach not only the holidays, but as many days as you can manage to do so...
Try this: 1. Sit. 2. Breathe. 3. Focus Or as we say in Integrative Wisdom...
Go SLO=W Stop. Listen. Observe. Wisdom appears.
1. Sit... preferably outside and alone. Not distracted by people or electronic devices or social media.
2. Breathe...No fancy techniques like counting in and out or alternate nostril breath. Simply noticing your chest rise and fall as you breathe. Focusing on paying attention as you breathe and how good it feels to do this.
3. Focus...However, one distraction that is approved and even encouraged is nature. The crow sitting so still in the tree overhead. The butterfly seeming to appear out of nowhere, soaring higher and higher until its out of sight. The countless birds you don't see but can hear...blue jay, mockingbird, and even little humming bird. Eyes feasting on the seemingly endless array of colors, colors that evoke smiles and sighs of contentment. Fragrances that waft up and fill us with their unique scent.
It is interesting to note that sitting and breathing and being distracted in this way does not feel like distraction. Rather, it feels like one is able to center and touch that deep place within, that soul place we may only visit now and again. It is in this space that peace can be found. Here we can feel encouraged to return again to that bustling world of distraction and busyness, that all-consuming-if-we-allow-it world.
Practicing this leads to a sense of empowerment and inner calm. It doesn't seem to matter as much that the house just never seems to be clean or organized enough. It seems that compassion is easier to practice for those in our care who need us to be our best selves for their best life. We can find ourselves finding the humor in even the toughest moments.
It is as if by sitting and breathing and focusing on the wildness of creation, our better nature, our soul is able to shine forth. Our carefully constructed persona that is usually in control gets to take its mini vacation from its self appointed role of gatekeeper. The soul gets to show itself, to peak out from that deep place and dance in the day to day comings and goings.
It is true for me that the more I follow this practice, the more my soul, my true nature, shines forth. I am kinder and more patient and more present and more peaceful, calm, and happy. That is why I don't consider it a waste of time to sit and "do nothing". I recognize this is a healing practice and basic medicine for my being.
To add to that, this practice affects all who cross my path. I can tell you for sure, when I am living from that soul place, I am much easier to be around. As you celebrate the holiday and every other day, I hope you too will take some time to sit, to breathe, to focus...and to allow nature to fill you up with a dose of healing medicine. Happy Fourth!
