Do you have times when you feel disconnected from the Universe? I think many people do. So much is happening around us and we are taken away from our inner core thinking and led to believe that our world is changing beyond all recognition. Many of us like our lives to retain a certain order of things – routines have been established in our lives that keep us grounded. Sometimes of course we need to embrace change, and if it’s from choice, we can benefit. But many things going on around us are out of our control, and life becomes frustrating. If we were to list our concerns presently, I think the lists would be long. I’m not going to itemise anything here – where would I start?! But I think most would agree that the is a lot of general unrest and distress in our world today.
It’s easy to get swept up in a storm of emotions. Life will always throw up the odd curve balls, unfortunately, and stressful situations can leave us drowning in negative thoughts. Think of the 3 am thought maelstrom – something I encounter from time to time! When we are caught in the storm that is the time we need to stop and centre ourselves.
How Do We Stay Centered?
When all around is raging (at least in your mind) it is time to stop fretting and be in the moment. Think about what is happening now – at this very minute in time. If you are in bed, listen to the nighttime sounds – the tick of the clock, the breeze in the trees outside the window, the hooting of the owls. Now you are in control of your emotions. Being focused on the now helps give you respite from stressful thoughts.
Being centred means staying calm and collected. It doesn’t mean you don’t get upset – it means you handle the stresses that come along in a better way.
Be a Compassionate Witness to Yourself
Realise that some things make us very sad. The news can be very upsetting and hard to process. Thoughts and feelings aren’t true or false, they are just there and real to us. Anger can rise in us too – but we can allow ourselves to tell our inner voice what is OUR truth and acknowledge what we feel to be right or wrong. Above all, we need to treat ourselves kindly.
Sadness envelopes us at times because we love. Being loving and compassionate to others is part of who we are and if we see others in pain, we are bound to react.
Imagine the Field of Positive Thought
This field exists I am sure, but for now, go there in your mind. It is beautifully green and fertile. The sky above is blue and the sun is shining. You can feel the warmth on your back. Many other people are there too. They are peaceful and smiling serenely. You all join hands and pray for peace. You feel your soul lift. You know you are acting for the common good and working to create trust and cooperation. You feel better for having been to the field and you are feeling hopeful. You can revisit the field whenever you need reassurance.
Look At The Stars
On a clear night, stand outside and look at the stars. How often do we do that? Look deeply at the deep blue velvet canopy above and relax. Stargazing is a stress reliever. It eases our minds and rejuvenates our spirits. Looking at the expanse of the sky helps problems become insignificant and tensions in the body and mind start to loosen. We can look at the sky and realise there are no boundaries or limitations – no borders to space or time. Planet Earth is beautiful, and beyond it lies a huge space, with secrets and experiences unrevealed.
Always the Small Things
The small things are the best things. And of course they are the big things. Write a small note to someone you really care about. Leave it on their pillow.
Leave a funny stick man drawing in your child’s lunchbox with a simple message telling them they are special.
Bake.
Be generous with time. It doesn’t cost anything and could make someone’s day.
Write a poem! Creativity is wonderful for the soul.
Smell the blossom. Spring is coming.
Thank you for showing me life can be good With you, I know the world is full of people who care And seek what is still beautiful and right. Thank you for choosing softness in a hard world And keeping your heart open instead of building walls. I am grateful to you for your kindness When the darkness falls, And for taking the time To point out the stars. The world is a better place When WE are in a better place And harmony comes from gentle words Spoken with grace. Thank you for not being perfect But for doing your best And not making judgements. Thank you for shining through difficult times And wearing your Sunday best on grim days. Thank you for showing up today. Sometimes you need to hear that And that's all I wanted to say. Thank you. Lmh
Notes From Dove Lane 