Frequently, we talk about mindfulness as a way to stop living on auto-pilot by paying attention to your life and making intentional decisions. Mindfulness is a way to tap into your internal resources so you can use them to reduce stress and conflict.
Sounds good, but how do you get there? Here are some key concepts which can help you develop an attitude of mindfulness in your everyday living. Continue reading
Human beings seek to survive, grow and thrive. This happens physically, emotionally and intellectually.
The puzzling thing is that people do not accomplish this at the same rate. The length of time it takes a person to mature depends on several factors, including ability, parenting, resources, and motivation.
Last week, we talked about winter being a natural time of reflection and introspection. I gave you 5 questions to consider to help you use winter as your own season of contemplation. It is important to remember that this process only works if you give it time.
Think of it like starting a garden. You do not run out and dig deep holes in random places. The first step is to look at your land, the area you have, and begin to dream and imagine what your garden will become. Then you need specific information about how to grow a garden that accounts for a number of variables, including where you are, what soil you have, and what purpose the garden will serve.Only then can you begin to turn the soil.
As the holidays come to an end and the new year kicks in, I want to talk about winter as a time to meditate and be introspective. It is a time to grow deep roots.
The lessons nature teaches us at this time of the year are about death and resurrection, rest and introspection. In the cold, dark months the leaves fall from the trees, many plants die, and the weather is cold and inhospitable.
Now that Christmas Day has passed, we are in the period of time when everyone is looking toward the New Year. Once again there is hype and an exaggerated focus on parties, fun, resolutions and having the “perfect” person or activity with whom to share the celebrations.
In short, it is another opportunity for elevated expectations and disappointment.
A friend of mine gave me a great idea for beginning the year. For the last decade, she starts New Year’s Day with a cup of coffee and her Memory Jar. She settles into an easy chair and reads the small pieces of paper contained inside.
