Entries in attention (43)
Breathe more mindfully
Today, during a breathwork workshop, we explored a variety of situations. It dawns that we have the choice to function unconsciously, which implies allowing emotion to take control, or, we can be present, grow more aware, choose to respond consciously to whatever unfolds. We explored what it feels like to breathe as we experience different emotions, where the rhythm of the breath changes as well as the signs and signals of the body. Go ahead, reflect on what is happening within you right now. Scan the body. Focus on the breath as energy flow. What stands out? Could it be that something invites closer attention? What are you willing to see?
If you wish to breathe more mindfully, are curious about the nature of the ideal breath and are ready to explore breathing techniques that empower you to live a fuller life, contact us for details about our next breathwork event to be this Tuesday, October 6, 2020 on the Sunshine Coast.
6 Ways to appreciate change
Many people ground themselves in what is familiar and assume it is permanent. You may resist change and seem to have difficulties when you encounter what seems to be perpetual change. Notice what stays the same is impermanence. Be aware adjusting to this changes your life. Consider these six ways to appreciate change that can be explored further, at your leisure:
1) Ground yourself in what feels good. Rather than focus on what bothers you, or on what you do not think is working, focus instead on things that feel positive and uplifting.
2) See it as a turning point. Notice every change is a milestone and a wake-up call. Pay attention to the learning curve and opportunities to unlearn what you are ready to let go.
3) Look to Nature. Recognize that something has to disintegrate or fall apart before something new can emerge or be built in its place. Look to nature for examples of how plants, flowers and trees grow and pass away to make room for the up and coming. Appreciate where you are. See value in every stage.
4) Be alert to conditioning. Know joy is something you can choose to experience every moment, every day, in every experience just as negativity is a choice.
5) Be empowered to know you create every change unfolding in your life. You can gain insight into yourself by recognizing higher consciousness always puts you in situations you can handle.
6) Get proactive. Know you are ready to make the changes you wish to see in your life. Whether its relationship beginnings, transitions or endings, a career or geographical move, parenthood, or other new chapters of life, your focus and attitude help you weather storms.
Get back on track
Notice when you give your undivided attention to something. Notice how often this happens. You likely notice your attention is dissipated on many things. What message are you sending to yourself when multi-tasking does not bring balance, when you cannot recall who said what?
When the mind is focused on one thing, and you are physically engaged in something else, this brings trouble. Notice how it feels to be talking to someone who is not focused on your words. Many people get emotional without clarity of thought. People can also think things without being aware of how they feel. Mental imbalance hinders the ability to fully engage and focus.
Distractions may seem like a normal part of life. Its easy to see disconnected thoughts and feelings in others. Yet, is it as easy to see in yourself? It may be time for more than one person to get back on track. How you communicate with others and how they interact with you are pointing to what you can do to strengthen communication and relationships. Notice what you get absorbed in, and how your behaviours and the behaviours of others are actually helping you.
Get the message
Every person you encounter is drawing your attention to something you are not yet noticing about yourself. You may be in a plane, train, taxi, bus or some other mode of transport. You may meet in passing at the local library or bookstore, be sitting in a park, or you may be out walking your pet. Revelations arise as you stand in line waiting to be served and you chat with strangers. You may be sitting next to another parent at your child's sports event. Nothing is ever random. Everything and everyone is a pointer. Notice what is emerging through each encounter. You create them all to help yourself. Notice what you see, feel and experience.
Be aware each encounter is a guide and mirror. See the appropriateness of them. Every choice you make has a purpose. You decide what matters. You decide how the guidance unfolds in your life; in passing, triggering eureka moments, evolving into intimacy, friendships or connecting with temporary or lifelong mentors. Each one is a window. Retreat into your own natural stillness. Get the message you reach for right now.