tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21354586723955175512024-03-13T04:35:18.548-07:00 West Broward Mindfulnesscome meditate with us...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-52106555597713622162016-11-11T13:50:00.001-08:002016-11-11T13:50:28.836-08:00Compassion as a healing force towards anger<br />
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<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="582" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fwbmindfulness%2Fposts%2F368446970173477%3A0&width=500" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="500"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-25129763887975202712016-10-04T08:38:00.001-07:002016-10-04T08:48:22.594-07:00What is Mindfulness?<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WGUWt4TjBKE" width="480"></iframe>Beautiful clip describing this practice. It is truly a gift to connect with and practice Mindfulness. Life becomes more than just a moving from one activity to the next and the next. We pause to actually be with what we're experiencing moment to moment. Instead of living in the world of thoughts, we live in a vibrant, alive, aware world; the world of living, loving and dying. We stop avoiding certain experiences and feelings and instead learn to open to life; connecting with wisdom (clear seeing) and compassion. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-51691872757073311952016-10-01T15:52:00.002-07:002016-10-01T15:54:35.727-07:00Life is a Gift<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Life is precious. From the first breath we take to the last is truly a gift. </div>
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And so how can maintain this awareness of the preciousness of every moment, every breath, every contact we have with life? Can we do it with reverence, with forgiveness for the times we're caught up in reactivity, fighting and resisting the way life is? </div>
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<i><span style="color: #274e13;"><b> </b></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>It's possible to meet the pain with acceptance, understanding and compassion</b></span></i></h3>
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It sometimes feels impossible to open to pain. It can be a deep wrenching grief that tosses us like a little dingy in a vast ocean. Sometimes the grief, sorrow and sadness can send us rushing to the bottom of the ocean and it feels as if we will stay there forever. At some point, I believe the heart begins to mend and we once again rise to the surface. We rejoin life and it little by little color seeps into our view of the world. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Wisdom comes when we see things beyond the way they should or shouldn't be and respond with compassion</b></span></i> </h3>
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I guess the most important thing to remember is that wisdom can come from suffering. I don't say this lightly and I'm not minimizing how devastating loss can feel. I believe that how we get through the challenges in life really matters. We can either look at what happens through the lens of victim-hood or through the lens of clarity and wisdom. This is the way life is. And even that feeling of victim-hood is a part of the healing process. It's the resisting and clinging that comes right before we let go. We relax our grip on trying to control things that are beyond our control. Therein, paradoxically is the power to choose how we meet these challenges. </div>
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I love this poem by Rumi that speaks to this. </div>
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<h1 class="title tttgap bbbgap" itemprop="name">
<span style="color: #274e13;">The Guest House</span></h1>
<div class="rendered poem_body" itemprop="description">
This being human is a guest house.<br />
Every morning a new arrival.<br />
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A joy, a depression, a meanness,<br />
some momentary awareness comes<br />
As an unexpected visitor.<br />
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Welcome and entertain them all!<br />
Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,<br />
who violently sweep your house<br />
empty of its furniture,<br />
still treat each guest honorably.<br />
He may be clearing you out<br />
for some new delight.<br />
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The dark thought, the shame, the malice,<br />
meet them at the door laughing,<br />
and invite them in.<br />
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Be grateful for whoever comes,<br />
because each has been sent<br />
as a guide from beyond.</div>
A teaching story translated by Coleman Barks <span class="author_copyright"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-68279260667119350132016-09-13T07:27:00.001-07:002016-09-13T07:27:25.670-07:00What you are seeking is right here...<br />
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Have you ever been on a quest to find the perfect person, place, feeling or thing? What happens when you find it? Does it satisfy you? </div>
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So it could be that we're looking for someone who will love us just the way we are and we want that person to be with us forever. We want to feel a sense of security and safety whether it's in relationship, at work or in the world. As humans we seek connection and security. We want to feel loved so we seek a partner who, when we're with them we experience a feeling of being treasured. Or we want to feel financially secure so we work long hours, and save every thing we can. But sometimes we go to the extreme. So we save our money but our social life is non-existant and when we are with our beloved we're irritable and exhausted. Caught up in the illusion of if only I had _____all will be well, we seek happiness and peace in the external world and end up like a cat chasing it's tail; occasionally they catch the tail but then it slips out of their grasp. So the wanting/seeking can be so intense to the point of being painful. This is what the Buddha called desire and with desire comes suffering/stress/dissatisfaction. </div>
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Soon after "we" get what we want, we get bored, frustrated, criticize it or want more of it. It's like an insatiable monster that is never satisfied. The monster is the mind and what keeps us seeking are the way we relate to our thoughts. We often relate to thoughts as if they are true. Sometimes our thoughts follow a story line and pretty soon we've written a whole novel about something that hasn't happened, isn't happening and may never happen. Sometimes the story can be pleasant, unpleasant and sometimes it's just downright boring but in the end it's just a story. The reality is that life is passing and instead of connecting with the vibrancy and aliveness that surrounds us we are living in our heads. Our hearts are closed off and our aliveness is dulled. It's as Tara Brach, meditation teacher and Psychotherapist says, it's like we're caught in a trance...we cut off from our bodies and we leave "this <span class="st">space of awareness that is the source and essence of all aliveness." </span> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><b>Mindfulness Meditation helps us reconnect to life as it's happening....</b></span></div>
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Meditation helps us come into direct contact with what is happening
within us, as it's happening. As we come into stillness we watch the
movement of the mind; we witness thoughts arising and passing awayAs we breathe and feel the breath come into the body we come into direct contact with this aliveness. The practice of meditation allows us to train the mind so that when it wanders off into thoughts we notice and that moment of noticing is a moment of mindfulness. It's a moment of connecting with the present, of opening to emotions, sensations and thoughts as they are happening. In Vipassana (Insight Meditation) practice we begin to investigate using the acronym of RAIN as follows:</div>
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Applying the acronym of R.A.I.N. is a great way to begin practicing mindfulness. Just the shift towards opening to this practice helps us to recognize that being present for our moment to moment experience, to be connected to our body, mind and heart, to see things as they really are and to respond in a way that is healing and healthy is essential to our overall well-being. We begin to notice the the life around us, we open our hearts to each other. Not in some new age or "kumba ya" manner, but in an authentic, compassionate and kind manner. Why? Because we realize that we are all walking in the same direction. Everyone of us, no matter what we look like on the outside, or how much money we have/don't have, are made of the same matter. We have a body, mind and heart; are vulnerable to illness, old age, death and change and in the end the only thing we have control over is how we respond to life. As beautifully stated by Thich Nhat Hanh in the drawing below.<br />
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In the tug and pull of desire’s grip<br />
I unravel<br />
Tattered shreds of a once regal robe fall away<br />
Nothing comes….nothing<br />
I ride out the battle<br />
with time and breath<br />
time and breath<br />
time and breath<br />
Acceptance breezes in (crafty sage that she is)<br />
Wraps this heart in sumptuous golden silk<br />
Warms this heart to a trusting stillness, then<br />
Leaves a knowing kiss upon this slowly smoothing brow.<br />
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Donna Sherman, “Acceptance”</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-63218737221658217932016-04-13T09:52:00.002-07:002016-04-14T07:42:29.595-07:00The Gift of Meditation: Connecting with this Vibrant Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Meditation is like medicine for the heart. It can be profoundly healing during times of stress, difficulty or when we're feeling overwhelmed. Instead of living in a world of virtual thoughts and reactions, we come back home to the vibrant life that is right here in our body, mind and heart. How do we do this? By consciously connecting with the breath and sensations in the body. <br />
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Awareness of breath is the first step towards reconnecting with life and wellbeing...</h3>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"Breathing is the bridge between mind and body, the connection between
consciousness and unconsciousness, the movement of spirit in matter.
Breath is the key to health and wellness, a function we can learn to
regulate and develop in order to improve our physical, mental and
spiritual well-being." Dr. Andrew Weil</i></blockquote>
Connecting to the breath, can be a first step towards developing awareness, about how we're relating to what to life. This conscious awareness is what helps us to notice when we're caught up in thoughts or beliefs. It helps us see, that what's happening in our lives isn't what causes suffering; it's the way we're relating to it. We can pause and shift out of reaction/thoughts/beliefs and notice how:<br />
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<li>the body is reacting to pain (tightening, heart racing, defenses arising)</li>
<li>whats happening in the mind (reactive/defensive thoughts closes and contracts our ability to be open minded and our minds can feel closed and contracted i.e. narrow minded)</li>
<li>what happens in the heart (we armor our hearts to try to protect ourselves from getting hurt only to experience deeper hurt).</li>
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This pausing, to step outside the world of thoughts and into our felt experience is actually freeing. We begin to see how our reaction to life is fueled by the way we think life should/shouldn't be. We notice how our whole being is caught up in resistance and how this intensifies the pain we encounter. With this insight we can begin to shift from reaction to response. We can begin to attune and respond with compassion to what is actually happening in the present moment. Breathing in, I meet tension with a compassionate breath, breathing out I soften the tension... Just tuning into the breath can begin to soften the contraction we experience when pain arises in body, mind and heart.<br />
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>Meditation as a path to waking up....</b></span></h3>
Meditation helps us reconnect with the vibrant life that is right here. Instead of being caught up in stories, worries or concerns about past or future we come into contact with what is actually happening moment to moment. There is a stream of life that flows through us and when we pause to notice we reconnect with spacious, open awareness.<br />
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Gift yourself today by pausing to practice. It may seem like you don't have time...the question is do you have time to live? Do you have time to breathe? The answer is of course yes! Your body breathes and you need the breath to live...so take time to pause and connect with the life that's right here.<br />
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There is much more I can say about this practice. For today it's enough to know that this practice has transformed the way I relate to others, myself and life and that is a gift!<br />
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Listen to this beautiful meditation by Jack Kornfield, a wise and wonderful teacher of mindfulness.<br />
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May you be peaceful and wellAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-13923279267496116802016-04-06T07:42:00.002-07:002016-04-06T14:47:29.239-07:00How Self Compassion Helps us<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TycPwmfi6Nw/VwUciGttywI/AAAAAAAABU0/trTF1nrOX_MVFpVFnvyff7prsSEQIMFLA/s1600/a-moment-of-self-compassion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TycPwmfi6Nw/VwUciGttywI/AAAAAAAABU0/trTF1nrOX_MVFpVFnvyff7prsSEQIMFLA/s320/a-moment-of-self-compassion.jpg" width="267" /></a><span style="color: #351c75;">During stressful and challenging times how do you talk to yourself? How does your body react to stress? What is your interaction like with others? Is it easier to be compassionate towards others, children, pets, a stranger than it is to feel this towards yourself?</span><br />
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</span> <span style="color: #351c75;">If you notice that your self talk is loaded with criticism and judgment when life gets challenging, you're not alone. When we make mistakes or life doesn't go according to plan we tend to become judgmental, harsh, critical towards ourselves when we make a mistake. Behind this painful reaction, is a desire to stop ourselves from making future mistakes! However, mistakes are a part of being human. So, if we are prone to make mistakes does it make sense to beat ourselves up for making them? Not! So why do we do it? And how we can learn to shift from self criticism and judgment to self compassion? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;"><u>Turning towards the pain and softening defenses</u></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #351c75;">Self compassion is a way of accepting ourselves and also accepting that in moments of frustration, or emotional turmoil there is pain. In that moment of acknowledging the pain, we can tap into wisdom and choose what is is the most healing way to meet this. It is a moment where we can reconnecting with what helps us flow through the pain and also to see what needs to happen, or how to proceed so that we can take action based on what helps rather than what keeps us locked in the need to be right. And there is so much more to how this practice helps and why it's essential to our emotional well being and our need to stay open hearted and open minded.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #351c75;">I'd like to share with you a beautiful video by Kristin Neff, a top researcher on this subject and author of Self Compassion, The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself. Please give yourself this gift of learning how to be kind and compassionate with yourself. It is truly a gift to you and to everyone and every living being you come into contact with. </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YFhcNPjIMjc" width="560"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-81385734952909266302015-09-28T08:36:00.000-07:002015-09-28T08:37:51.989-07:00Meeting fear with acceptance and wisdom<span style="color: #20124d;"><span style="font-family: Tahoma,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i>"If we do not turn inwards and train our mind, but instead expend all our
energy on arranging and rearranging the external aspects of our
existence, then our suffering will continue."</i></span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">We often worry about things beyond our control. So, if there's something I'm ruminating over, I often find it helpful to ask the question <i>"How can I help myself right now?" </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The practice of <a href="http://liveindmoment.blogspot.com/p/mindfulness-meditation.html" target="_blank">mindfulness </a>helps us to stay present, for our lived experience. As we practice mindfulness we are learning to respond to life in ways that are helpful, instead of reacting in ways that create suffering.<i> </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In order to help ourselves, we must first be aware of how we are relating, to what is happening our lives. The first place we need to turn towards, is our inner experience. Taking a moment to<i> </i>connect with our lived experience in body, mind and heart is essential. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pausing, we connect with the breath, notice the quality of attention. With a real committment to be mindful to what is happening we ask:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Is the mind scattered?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What are the quality of thoughts? Worried, agitated, restless</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">How is the body? Are there areas of tension perhaps in the shoulders, hands, or face?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What about the breathing? Is the breath shallow or tight? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Is there constriction or heaviness in the heart area?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As you notice what you are holding in the mind, begin to allow thoughts to fade into the background and gently focus on the breath.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Breathing in, feel the breath come into the nostrils, chest and belly.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">See if you can soften tension in the body and heart by breathing in and then softening on the exhale.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Relax tension wherever you can.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Feel sensations in the body and watch how they shift and change. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">If you're overwhelmed, use the breath as an anchor to keep you in the present moment. Breathing in, stay present, breathing out, let go and soften where possible.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Use the following mantra by the Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh " </span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Breathing in, I calm body and mind. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment I know this is the only moment.” </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">As we connect with our lived experience, we let go of living in stories or thoughts about how lfe should be and come to accept it the way it is. This is a very important shift, as we are able to connect, with the aliveness, energy and vibrant body, heart and mind. It is only when we open in this intimate way, that we can help ourselves. Otherwise, we're caught in the trap of trying to fix, rescue, dismiss or avoid what is happening in our lives. We're reacting instead of responding. Ultimately, we are trying to control that which we don't like, or we're clinging and trying to keep that which we like. </span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Underneath the need for control is fear</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Underneath the need for control, is the wanting to know how things are going to be in the future. Questions arise about how long this good feeling, relationship or situation will last. We want to feel safe and so it follows, that if we know what is going to happen, we can some how prevent it. While there is some truth to this, it's also true that we can't predict every outcome. Nor should we! Life is constantly changing and nothing is permanent. Every day we age a little bit more. People get sick, we lose loved ones, a job or material wealth. Many things can happen, that are beyond our control and this is the nature of life. We can't predict what is going to happen as we move through our day. We can plan as best we can and then let go. The more we try to control the more we suffer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In learning to plan and then take our hands off the controls, we learn to be connected to the life that's right here! In shifting, from future or past, to present moment awareness we can begin to respond from a place of wisdom instead of a place of worry and catastrophizing. So the real question is can you live with the I don't know.</span><br />
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As Philip Moffitt, a Meditation Teacher at Spirit Rock states, "The proper response is when fear is present is threefold: </span></span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Continual mindfulness of the fear, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Deep compassion for the suffering it is
causing, </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Cultivation of equanimity that allows you to stay with it. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">You
will find that the dharma will do the rest. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">May you be well </span></span>
<br />
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
The
proper response is threefold: continual mindfulness of the fear, deep
compassion for the suffering it is causing, and cultivation of
equanimity that allows you to stay with it. You will find that the
dharma will do the rest. - See more at:
http://dharmawisdom.org/teachings/articles/freedom-fear#sthash.M3wYxldF.dpuf</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
The
proper response is threefold: continual mindfulness of the fear, deep
compassion for the suffering it is causing, and cultivation of
equanimity that allows you to stay with it. You will find that the
dharma will do the rest. - See more at:
http://dharmawisdom.org/teachings/articles/freedom-fear#sthash.M3wYxldF.dpuf</div>
<div id="stcpDiv" style="left: -1988px; position: absolute; top: -1999px;">
The
proper response is threefold: continual mindfulness of the fear, deep
compassion for the suffering it is causing, and cultivation of
equanimity that allows you to stay with it. You will find that the
dharma will do the rest. - See more at:
http://dharmawisdom.org/teachings/articles/freedom-fear#sthash.M3wYxldF.dpuf</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-48998727044051992062015-04-22T08:14:00.000-07:002015-05-03T12:05:30.220-07:00See Life as it Truly is...let go of black and white thinking...<span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Beyond views of right/wrong there is life....</b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X4KvThEQrCs/VTe6IsthsCI/AAAAAAAABJM/gE9299HYAAw/s1600/Tara%27s%2Bwisdom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X4KvThEQrCs/VTe6IsthsCI/AAAAAAAABJM/gE9299HYAAw/s1600/Tara's%2Bwisdom.jpg" height="320" width="253" /></a></div>
Sometimes we get caught up in seeing life as right/wrong, good/bad or through the filter of should/shouldn't. We judge ourselves or others and use labels such as he is good/kind or mean/bad person. These labels create separation and pain and we miss out on seeing the whole person. We see the behavior not the person. We are all human and made up of light and shadow. Sometimes our actions come from a place of love, kindness and understanding. Sometimes our actions come from hurt, resentment, and pain. Meeting pain with more pain (judgment and shame) leads to disconnection and suffering. Looking at each other as humans who are vulnerable, who have a need for love and connection can help us soften our reactivity and defensiveness. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Today <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">take the opportunity to really look...see <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">the person beyond the behavior...<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">look with compassion, love and understanding. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">It is often when we open our hearts<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">, when we're vulnerable that we <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">can see beyond <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">the surface. <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Some<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">times we label because we <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">ourselves are afraid of getting hurt. Take time to really connect with what<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"> is happening with<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">in you as you connect with <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">the world</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
I love this poem by Rumi which speaks to this:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J_zNmNBkm2s/VKB5qMDPzHI/AAAAAAAABFM/G6CBXx4Hhlk/s1600/beatiful%2Bfield%2Bof%2Bflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J_zNmNBkm2s/VKB5qMDPzHI/AAAAAAAABFM/G6CBXx4Hhlk/s1600/beatiful%2Bfield%2Bof%2Bflowers.jpg" height="188" width="320" /></a><i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Ou<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">t be</span>yond ideas of wrong doing and right doing,</span></span></i><i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"> there is a field. I'll meet you there.</span></span></i><br />
<div align="left">
<i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div align="left">
<i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">When the soul lies down in that grass,</span></span></i></div>
<div align="left">
<i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">the world is too full to talk about.</span></span></i></div>
<div align="left">
<i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">Ideas, language, even the phrase </span><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">each other</span></span></i></div>
<div align="left">
<i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">doesn't make any sense.</span></span></i></div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
</div>
<div align="left">
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: #20124d;"><span class="size12 TimesRoman12" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif;">May you be peaceful... </span></span></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-44177181996315783342014-12-29T13:24:00.000-08:002015-03-02T17:21:26.788-08:00Meditation as a grounding practice...<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rbdza2X_osI/VDwuXeVURuI/AAAAAAAABAs/Hg_idUTMla8/s1600/Stay%2Bbalanced.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rbdza2X_osI/VDwuXeVURuI/AAAAAAAABAs/Hg_idUTMla8/s1600/Stay%2Bbalanced.jpg" height="308" width="320" /></a><i><b><span style="color: #073763;"><span style="font-size: large;">Why do we meditate?</span></span></b></i><br />
Is it to better ourselves in some way so that we can have lasting happiness?<br />
<br />
If you sit down to meditate with a set goal such as to be happy it can turn into an exercise in frustration. Making time to meditate means we're getting off the fast track through life so that we can connect with the life that is right here. We open to our lived experience, right here, right now. Sometimes it's more challenging than others as when we get swept away by our emotions and stories. Sometimes this can feel as if we are in the middle of a tornado and unable to see things clearly. Sitting down to meditate in the midst of emotional chaos with a set expectation regarding the outcome is not meditation. It's instead another way of resisting what is happening in our lives at the moment. When we are trying to make something happen it's usually because we are in some way resisting life. Instead if we approach meditation with the intention to help ourselves. We get off the reactivity ride and shift to responding in a way that helps us open to what is happening within us. <br />
<br />
Meditation is a practice that helps us stay connected to our lived experience moment to moment. It is a practice that can help us learn to stay grounded and calm instead of reactive and agitated. It's when we open our awareness to explore what is going on within, without judging ourselves that we can reconnect with life as it is. We let go of defensive reactions and come into direct contact with the vulnerability that lies beneath the defense. We stop living life like a character in a novel.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Notice when you're caught up in a story...</b></span></i></span><br />
<br />
I like to say that we're great storytellers and have a habit of taking events that happen in our lives and making up stories about what it means. As a result we sometimes end up living like a character in a novel. In reality, things that happen in the world around us aren't about us. When we take things personally and react by blaming, criticizing or getting defensive we escalate the pain that then leads to suffering. Meditation practice can help us notice how that reactivity is affecting our body, mind and heart. If I'm hurt and I sit down to meditate, instead of focusing on the situation or person that triggered the hurt I can begin to notice how the hurt shows up in my body. I pause...breathe and notice is there tension in my body? Is there a heaviness around my heart? I tune into the breath and notice if there is tension or pressure there. I begin to breathe in bringing compassion to the hurt. As I breathe in and allow the hurt to be there and meet it with compassion and acceptance. The intention is to turn towards the pain instead of lashing out at others. When I am able to do this it helps me to reground myself, to soothe the emotions. It also allows me to see when I am caught up in a story filled with defensiveness and reactivity. With this awareness I can begin to respond in healing ways. Meditation can help you develop the capacity to help yourself stay connected to life instead of the midst of a story about life.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uoqdZA3GYk0/VDwz5p48pvI/AAAAAAAABA8/64x3v5Rn784/s1600/Path%2Bin%2Bthe%2Bwoods.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uoqdZA3GYk0/VDwz5p48pvI/AAAAAAAABA8/64x3v5Rn784/s1600/Path%2Bin%2Bthe%2Bwoods.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></div>
Meditation is the path that helps us come back into balance with body, mind, heart and life. It's not about perfecting ourselves, it's about freeing ourselves from the stories and reactions that can keep us stuck and disconnected from the vibrant life that is right here. </div>
<br />
May you be peaceful<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-35440168317163544472014-12-08T14:55:00.000-08:002014-12-09T10:14:54.082-08:00Music to calm body, mind and heart...<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><b>The healing and calming power of music...</b></i></span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EBi4NoYEmLE/VDxAoEcfm2I/AAAAAAAABBM/_hDMke58Tqg/s1600/nature%2Bmusic%2Bsymbol.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EBi4NoYEmLE/VDxAoEcfm2I/AAAAAAAABBM/_hDMke58Tqg/s1600/nature%2Bmusic%2Bsymbol.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We
find music not just by playing instruments or listening to songs but also in
nature. Walk in the forest and you'll hear a natural symphony of sounds
made up of birds, insects, wind, and rain. <br />
<br />
The composers of centuries ago
often composed their music based on the sounds of nature. So music is a
natural part of the world. It can also be healing, energizing and
calming. Sometimes it can help in healing and soothing physical, mental
and emotional pain. Other times we listen for the joy of it. Either way
it can really help us shift out of a stressful state if we open to the
experience of listening with body, mind and heart.<br />
<br />
Whether listening to an orchestra, a song on the internet or the natural sound so of nature, pausing to listen and really take in these sounds can have a
powerful healing effect on the body, mind and heart. It is a movement
towards opening our senses and truly allowing the sounds to resonate
within the body. This pausing along with tuning into our senses and
receiving the sound of music can allow us to experience deep moments of peace
and contentment. This in turn can help the body restore and revitalize the bodies energy and release built up tension. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Music during Restorative Yoga can help alleviate tension...</span></span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I teach yoga in a beautiful studio called <a href="http://shanti3yoga.com/" target="_blank">Shanti 3 Yoga</a> in Weston, Florida. As
a yoga teacher I find that using music during a restorative yoga class
helps calm and release the stress and tension that builds up in the body,
mind and heart as we move through our hectic and busy lives. As the music plays, I invite students to soften the
tension in their bodies and allow the soothing sound of the music to
flow through them. This approach is different from mindfulness
meditation as during meditation when we sit on the cushion the intention
is open to inner experience and stay present with what is happening
without pushing anything away or clinging to it. Both practices are
powerful and both are paths towards healing, clearing the mind and
opening the heart. For the purposes of this post I'm focusing on music
as a healing modality. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #38761d;"><i><b><span style="font-size: large;">Restorative yoga at home...</span></b></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJuZNAWeZsg/VDxGGYNttBI/AAAAAAAABBc/i1-VdEf2UAU/s1600/relaxation.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lJuZNAWeZsg/VDxGGYNttBI/AAAAAAAABBc/i1-VdEf2UAU/s1600/relaxation.jpg" height="265" width="320" /></a>You don't have to come into a yoga studio to experience the calming and soothing effects of music. You can try it at home. I'm including a link to a beautiful song that you can play as you lay in a restorative pose. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
You
can choose to lay on the mat, on your back (shavasana pose) with a
blanket under your head for comfort, an eye pillow to cover the eyes and calm the mind and a blanket to help
keep you feeling relaxed and warm. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Turn the lights down. Lay on your mat and begin to connect with the sensation of the breath. Allow the breath to soften tension and stress in the body, mind and heart. Play the music with the intention of letting go of worries and concerns. Stay on the mat for at least 15 minutes or as long as you like and notice how you feel at the end of this practice. </div>
<br />
<br />
May you live with ease and peace...<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FwAz-t6yT_A" width="459"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-10332201279648137452014-12-02T12:52:00.000-08:002015-05-03T12:15:00.310-07:00Shift from reacting to responding with a compassionate heart...<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fB3M_4uPXcE/VH4RkyBMDBI/AAAAAAAABEg/obZo6Ae-l34/s1600/anger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fB3M_4uPXcE/VH4RkyBMDBI/AAAAAAAABEg/obZo6Ae-l34/s1600/anger.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a><span class="userContent">Whether you're aware of it or not we all have our hots spots or sensitive issues that go off when we're triggered by some action, word, sight or sound that sets off any feeling of pain or discomfort. I say that our default button is set on react and defend rather than relate and respond when we get triggered. It's not you're fault, my fault or anyone's. It's a survival mechanism that's helped us survive since we've been on this planet. So the problem isn't this survival mechanism. The problem starts when we are reacting to things that aren't dangerous and life threatening as if they were. When this happens I say that our default button is hyper sensitive and becomes trigger happy. When we react to situations, thoughts, external events as if they are a threat we suffer. We suffer because the moment we're triggered and go into reactive mode we either push others away, withdraw and isolate ourselves or attack with words of physical violence. So the thing that we are usually seeking, which is safety becomes elusive because of our actions. (unless you are really in danger such as being stalked by a lion, or someone is trying to mug you in which case you need to react!) It's not just safety we're seeking it is also connection. We want to feel heard, seen, understood and loved. Both safety and connection are essential to our well-being. Without them our emotional and physical well being suffers. So how do we help ourselves? </span></div>
<br />
<h3>
<i><span style="color: #351c75;"><span class="userContent">Notice what happens to your body, mind and heart when you are triggered...</span></span></i></h3>
<span style="background-color: #20124d;"><span style="color: blue;"><i><b><span class="userContent" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #20124d;"></span></span></b></i></span></span><span class="userContent" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://www.enthusiasticbuddhist.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/mindfulness-gives-you-time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.enthusiasticbuddhist.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/mindfulness-gives-you-time.jpg" border="0" class="decoded" src="http://www.enthusiasticbuddhist.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/mindfulness-gives-you-time.jpg" height="233" width="320" /></a>One way is to begin to notice what happens to your body, mind and heart when you get triggered. What triggered you isn't as important as your reaction to the trigger. So you can get caught up in the content or story or you can begin to notice how you are reacting to the situation. For example, say that I am on my way to meeting and am running late. As I get on the expressway I notice that traffic is very slow and I end up stuck in a traffic jam for the next 30 minutes. I can either spend those 30 minutes cursing the traffic and drivers around me, beating myself up for not leaving earlier, feeling angry at my boss for scheduling a meeting at this time or I can begin to notice how I'm reacting to the situation. I might notice that my muscles are tense and I feel anxiety in my belly. Instead of feeding the anxiety with worry thoughts, I might begin to breathe and allow the anxiety to be there. Along with being present with these feelings I can bring a feeling of compassion to the anxiety in acknowledgment that this is a moment of suffering. Being compassionate is what helps alleviate the suffering and it can also help to calm the body, mind and heart. Just like this small example there are many different examples that you can use from your own life to help yourself during times of stress and suffering. These moments are pivotal in learning how to shift from living mindlessly and reacting to life to living mindfully and responding to pain with a compassionate and wakeful presence. One keeps you stuck in a place of pain and the other helps you respond to pain and move through it in a compassionate way. </span><br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b><span class="userContent">Learn to cultivate a peaceful and loving heart...</span></b></i></span></h3>
<a href="http://www.upaya.org/uploads/images/10151375101523154103130764335097530574913692n.jpg-sized.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="http://www.upaya.org/uploads/images/10151375101523154103130764335097530574913692n.jpg-sized.jpg" border="0" class="decoded" src="http://www.upaya.org/uploads/images/10151375101523154103130764335097530574913692n.jpg-sized.jpg" /></a><span class="userContent">See the world with an open and awakened heart
instead of a judgmental, stressed out and reactive body, mind and heart. </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="userContent">Take breaks throughout your day to be present in your body and pause
the torrents of thoughts, stories and reactions. </span></li>
<li><span class="userContent">You<span class="text_exposed_show"> might practice with one word such as Peace...breathe in peace...breathe out peace </span></span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">This is a gift of living, breathing and being present and connected
with this precious life around and within. Practice compassion and loving kindness to live mindfully and awaken the heart.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent"><span class="text_exposed_show">May you be peaceful </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-58880542321342433582014-10-13T13:39:00.001-07:002014-10-13T13:39:41.034-07:00Meditation is...<div id="fb-root">
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<br />
When Meditating...<br />
<br />
Be patient<br />
Be kind<br />
Listen to the inner world of sensation<br />
<br />
Offer good will towards yourself<br />
Send it out to others<br />
Open your heart to...<br />
Compassion<br />
<br />
Connect with the mind<br />
That is spacious like the sky<br />
Watch thoughts flow in and out<br />
Feel the breath flow in and out<br />
The ebb and flow of emotions and energy<br />
<br />
Notice what it's like right here<br />
Right now<br />
Open, stable, attentive<br />
In the moment<br />
<br />
C. Ricardo 10-13-14<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-79593314440629314762014-10-02T16:59:00.006-07:002014-10-03T14:07:34.187-07:00In Search of Happiness?<a href="http://palousemindfulness.com/contact.html" title="Contact">
</a><br />
<div class="center_photo">
<a href="http://palousemindfulness.com/contact.html" title="Contact">
</a></div>
<b><span style="color: #274e13;">"True happiness is something that, by its nature, gets spread around.” Buddha</span></b><br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2jw2e2tdQ8/VCGssjTNu_I/AAAAAAAABAM/sk5RSQQUPu4/s1600/Loving%2BKindness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w2jw2e2tdQ8/VCGssjTNu_I/AAAAAAAABAM/sk5RSQQUPu4/s1600/Loving%2BKindness.jpg" height="216" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #444444;">It seems a no brainer that if I were to ask, if you want to be happy, your response would be a resounding Yes! I believe that all of us want to be happy and what often gets in the way is when we seek it in things, people or status.</span><br />
<ul><span style="color: #444444;">
</span>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">So when was the last time you felt happy? </span></li>
<span style="color: #444444;">
</span>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">What does happiness mean to you?</span></li>
<span style="color: #444444;">
</span>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Is it money, relationship or peace of mind? </span></li>
</ul>
<b><span style="color: #274e13;">I'll be happy when...and if...</span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="background-color: white;">Have you ever found yourself saying or thinking these words? Prior to learning and practicing mindfulness, I found myself yearning for things to be different. I really believed, if only things were different (more money, more time, less worry) I'd be happy. So I'd dwell in the world of "what if and if only and was miserable. My attention and energy were hooked in pursuing happiness in things and trying to control the world around me. This just kept me racing through life and getting no where. It was exhausting and I was piling on more stress to what was already a stressful. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;">The awakened heart opens us to life </span></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #444444;">We come into balance when we learn to let go of reacting to stress or trying to control the world around us or within. When we learn to respond instead of react to challenges in life with acceptance and compassion we're able to reconnect with the vibrancy around us. We're able to feel more connected to the things that nourish the mind and cultivate loving connection. This allows us to open to life. We see both the beauty and the suffering and don't judge one as better than the other. So instead of turning our eyes away and closing our hearts to suffering, we're able to stay present and respond with compassion and loving kindness. It can be challenging to do this as letting our guard down and opening our hearts is counter intuitive. It goes against striving and survival. The benefits out weigh the challenges. When we approach life with an awakened heart it opens us to life, love and our energy that is tied up in worry is free to appreciate life in the moment. Even when things are difficult, when we practice mindfulness we have more clarity of mind, our hearts are more open to life, compassion and happiness.</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #274e13;">Mindfulness is a conscious choice...</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GVFRMcVq_VY/VCr27CdAckI/AAAAAAAABAY/GoPj7_SYIwo/s1600/happiness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GVFRMcVq_VY/VCr27CdAckI/AAAAAAAABAY/GoPj7_SYIwo/s1600/happiness.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444;">All of this is great in theory but mindfulness is not about theories. It is about the lived experience. Right now pause and notice the following:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">What's the body like in this moment as you read this? </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">What emotion is felt? </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Has this article triggered memories from the past? Hope for the future? </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #444444;">As you finish reading this take at least a five minute break and:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Close your eyes and tune into the body</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Breathing in feel the sensation of breath coming into the body</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #444444;">Breathing out soften and relax the body and heart.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;">Take time to consciously connect with this moment. It truly is a gift and can lead to meeting life with acceptance, compassion and happiness.</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444;">May you be well </span><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-51430030491518562612014-09-29T15:30:00.003-07:002014-09-29T15:31:36.342-07:00Practice Mindfulness for a Healthy Body, Mind and Heart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0GYAMfxt_3A/VAnYq7kjraI/AAAAAAAAA9k/yZiEd_CF29o/s1600/open-mind-open-heart-thich-naht-hahn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0GYAMfxt_3A/VAnYq7kjraI/AAAAAAAAA9k/yZiEd_CF29o/s1600/open-mind-open-heart-thich-naht-hahn.jpg" height="194" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Practicing
mindfulness connects us to the present
moment, gives light to what's most important
in our lives, and helps reduce anxious and
stressful feelings. It is a very grounding and healing practice as well as challenging. So what is mindfulness and how can we practice in every day life? To get free tips and activities please read the full article at <a href="http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/living-mindfully-for-a-healthy-body-mind-and-heart-0915144">http://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/living-mindfully-for-a-healthy-body-mind-and-heart-0915144</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-63498046888274624002014-09-18T12:55:00.004-07:002014-09-18T14:24:29.370-07:00Beyond Coping there is life...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Fpb0s_F6c0/VBs3eavDmlI/AAAAAAAAA_4/G0u5efANDbg/s1600/be%2Bpresent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Fpb0s_F6c0/VBs3eavDmlI/AAAAAAAAA_4/G0u5efANDbg/s1600/be%2Bpresent.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>Today I was thinking about how precious life is. That each moment is a gift no matter what we're facing in life. It's sometimes a challenge to remember this as we get caught up in stories, opinions and drama. When we arrive right here, feeling our feet on the ground, the sensation of breathing, looking out and taking in our surroundings, this is a moment of pure awareness and it's a gift. I say it's a gift because when we step out our busyness and into life it's like seeing clearly for the first time. Our senses come alive and colors, sounds, sensations are more vibrant. Live each day with moments of mindfulness and your view of the world slowly shifts from one where things are happening to you, to one where you're interacting with life.<br />
<br />
This is a wonderful passage from the book "Beyond Coping" by Thanissaro Bhikkhu. It's a reminder about what a gift it is to live in the present moment:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #351c75;"><i><b>Beyond Coping</b></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"You shouldn't chase after the past,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or place expectations on the future.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What is past</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
is left behind.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The future</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
is as yet unreached.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whatever quality is present</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
you clearly see right there,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
right there.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not taken in,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
unshaken,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that's how you develop the heart.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ffpc2_Tl-Vs/VBs3CIF2iJI/AAAAAAAAA_w/LquomlstPdM/s1600/beautiful%2Bfield%2Bof%2Bflowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ffpc2_Tl-Vs/VBs3CIF2iJI/AAAAAAAAA_w/LquomlstPdM/s1600/beautiful%2Bfield%2Bof%2Bflowers.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
How can you practice this today? Pause and take a break to connect with this body, mind and heart. Notice what surrounds you and the aliveness within you. For this moment, meet whatever arises with awareness, loving kindness and curiosity.<br />
<br />
<br />
May you be peaceful<br />
May you be joyful<br />
May you be safe<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-59028331912894508192014-09-15T12:21:00.000-07:002014-09-16T17:33:42.984-07:00Is there a Right Way of practicing MIndfulness Meditation?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
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<![endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Am I doing it right? What is right?<b> </b></span></i></span><span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span> </span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 6;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><i>By J. Hood</i></span> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OJ4cUHRol4/VBHy4QLiHII/AAAAAAAAA-0/Y2D9QwrtKWc/s1600/Man%2BMeditating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OJ4cUHRol4/VBHy4QLiHII/AAAAAAAAA-0/Y2D9QwrtKWc/s1600/Man%2BMeditating.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I thought there was a script, and I was struggling with it.
I wondered if I was doing it wrong and of course, I judged and questioned
myself. The perfectionist in me wanted perfection to yield the highest level of
success. If I was going to embrace this <a href="http://liveindmoment.blogspot.com/p/mindfulness-we-can-never-obtain-peace.html" target="_blank">Mindfulness </a>stuff, I had to do it
right. Every day, I would sit and meditate and do my best, but let’s face it my
mind was all over the place.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It took me some time to realize that my experience is just
that. Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in
the present moment, and non-judgmentally.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When my mind wanders I simply notice it and focus back on
the breath. Some days are better than others and that’s OK, that’s just my experience
and noticing it, is mindfulness.</span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><i> </i></span></span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><i>Meditation isn't about getting somewhere. It's about being present and open to the life that is right here. C. Ricardo </i></span></span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-arvbJKveVfU/VBH0bmD9ehI/AAAAAAAAA-8/9_5MKEaKBvo/s1600/Awareness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-arvbJKveVfU/VBH0bmD9ehI/AAAAAAAAA-8/9_5MKEaKBvo/s1600/Awareness.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="quoteText">
“Looking at beauty in the world, is the first step of purifying the mind.”
</div>
<div class="quoteText">
Amrit Ray</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">For me the content of my meditation is not as important as
consistency. I make it a point to sit every day. In the beginning, I was
waiting on some AH-HA moment and these BIG changes would envelope me. It didn’t
happen that way. The changes were gradual and subtle. About six months into my
practice I started noticing things. I’m more aware of life and the little
things. I’m more patient, compassionate and balanced, both toward myself and
others. I can better regulate stress and my reaction to it. The list goes on
and on. I find now, after 18 months of meditation, that the list grows daily
and the benefits aren’t as subtle, these changes are pretty clear.</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It’s clear my success lies in the repetition and consistency
of a daily practice. For me this is a routine much like any other daily activity.
It’s something I look forward to; it’s my time to be with myself.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In the beginning, it may seem hard to find the time. If
you’re like me, there’s probably some unnecessary activity weighing you down. I
eliminated just a little bit of that and replaced it with a daily routine of
meditation and self-exploration and it’s changed my life. </span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I’m hopeful this will inspire you to pick your time, a quiet
place and begin a routine of loving kindness toward yourself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stick with it even if it seems like nothing is
coming from it. That’s just you being more mindful. Soon the joy of the
practice will come shining through.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">J.H.<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i> </i></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>*This
post is written and shared by guest blogger Joe Hood. He practices
mindfulness meditation on a daily basis and shares his experience with
this grounding and peaceful
practice. Sharing his insight and experience is a wonderful way to learn
about this practice.</i></span></span> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-7465134958262516842014-09-12T11:07:00.000-07:002014-09-12T11:07:13.110-07:00Open to Life, Love and Experience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j94FSXVOvho/VBCoXcf-RyI/AAAAAAAAA-k/y0jKxn8OOXk/s1600/open%2Bto%2Blove.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j94FSXVOvho/VBCoXcf-RyI/AAAAAAAAA-k/y0jKxn8OOXk/s1600/open%2Bto%2Blove.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
When was the last time you were really aware of breathing in and out? Is there tightness or ease in the body?<br />
<br />
Moments of checking in are important, as they helps us become aware of what we carry in our mind, body and heart.<br />
<br />
In the midst of writing, I pause and notice that I'm caught up in thinking, planning and worrying. As I connect with the body, I notice a buzzing sound in the head and a tightness in the legs. There's a feeling of restlessness and agitation in the body. Thoughts about the future enter and attached to them is a thread of anxiety. Anxiety begins to circle the heart and there's a tight feeling in the chest; a hand slowly closing into a fist. Can I let the worry thoughts be there without reacting to them as if they are true? Can I hold this experience in a compassionate and accepting embrace? Can I soften the tightness, gently breathing in and out and feel the sensation of the breath, the fullness on the inhale, the release on the exhale? <br />
<br />
If I go through the day on auto pilot it's like living in a trance. I'm ungrounded and lost in the world of thoughts. Pausing allows me to connect deeply with what is happening right now. So I pause, become curious and explore by connecting with what is happening through inquiry. I notice: <br />
<ul>
<li>How is the body right now?</li>
<li>How is the energy? </li>
<li>Am I reacting or responding?</li>
<li>If I'm reacting is it possible to soften? To allow whatever energy is within to flow freely?</li>
<li>Can I be open to what ever emotion is present? (sadness, joy, gratitude, love) </li>
</ul>
Pausing in this way, I immediately connect with the inner world of sensation and feel the vibrant aliveness that is here. This pausing, noticing and opening is an act of love and a act of mindfulness.<br />
<br />
So how are you today? What sensations are felt in the body? Pause and notice. Open to the breath? Check in and send loving kindness to this body, this heart, this mind. Connect with the life that is right here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UouT8PHhNpw/VBJS58AC5CI/AAAAAAAAA_I/34k59SJCJBg/s1600/mindfulness%2Blotus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UouT8PHhNpw/VBJS58AC5CI/AAAAAAAAA_I/34k59SJCJBg/s1600/mindfulness%2Blotus.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
May you be healthy<br />
<br />
May you live with peace and ease<br />
<br />
May you be peacefulAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-5984279026462931212014-09-09T12:47:00.000-07:002015-03-28T15:37:24.513-07:00Meeting Reactivity wth Compassion<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><i><span style="color: #20124d;">"Reactive responses are triggers and are like invisible land mines tied to deeper hurts, fears and pain. Meeting reactivity with compassion can help tame the reactive mind, body and heart." C. Ricardo</span></i></b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c_3dlKOa1d4/UWMiLpWcMKI/AAAAAAAAApU/fj7cMZnWMF0/s1600/addiction%2Bhurts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c_3dlKOa1d4/UWMiLpWcMKI/AAAAAAAAApU/fj7cMZnWMF0/s1600/addiction%2Bhurts.jpg" height="179" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Are you aware of your triggers? How do you react when something painful or hurtful happens? Do you blame yourself or others? How does this affect you (body, mind and heart)? </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> We all have triggers. There are certain situations, feelings or interactions that when touched set off a reactive/defensive response within us. This defensive response is often instinctual and automatic. It's a natural response to pain and meant to protect us from danger. However, it can backfire when we react in hurtful and wounding ways towards ourselves or others. So there is the pain that lies beneath the trigger and there is the defensive response that is meant to protect us but instead creates more distance, hurt and can potentially turn into suffering. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The first arrow is the pain in life, the second is suffering...</span></span></b></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> This reminds me of a story I heard about how Buddha approached teaching a student about suffering. Buddha asked the student, “If a person is struck by an arrow, is
it painful?” and the student replied “It is.” Then the Buddha asked, “If
the person is struck by a second arrow, is that even more painful?” again the student replied, “It is.” The Buddha then explained, “In life, we
cannot always control the first arrow. However, the second arrow is our
reaction to the first. The second arrow is optional.” </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> The first arrow is the pain we encounter in life, the second arrow is the layer of thoughts, stories and meaning we attribute to the pain. This added layer is suffering. There are many instances where this happens in everyday life. You might be in a hurry to get to the office and stuck in traffic. As you sit there inching along, frustration begins to build. You begin feeling angry and impatient. Once your emotions are triggered your body responds by tensing up. Your heart begins to race and your muscles contract. By the time you get to the office, it feels like steam is coming out of your ears and when a co-worker greets you with a welcoming smile you lash out at them. Or maybe you made a mistake and dropped coffee on your brand new shirt and your inner judge goes on the war path criticizing an shaming you for not paying attention. The point is that the problem isn't the trigger, it's the way we react to it. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and freedom." Victor Frankl</span></b></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJADUctt-r0/VA9RQTzTE0I/AAAAAAAAA-E/d9GAE6uQRxU/s1600/acceptance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJADUctt-r0/VA9RQTzTE0I/AAAAAAAAA-E/d9GAE6uQRxU/s1600/acceptance.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Much of the time pain turns to suffering because we are in some way resisting our experience. We may be caught up in the world of thoughts, emotions, past regrets or guilt or perhaps we're trying to control the situation or outcome. When we engage with what is happening in our lives in this way, we lose our ability to respond and instead are reacting, trying to fix or in some way control the outcome. We're usually doing this in an effort to dampen or avoid pain, but it doesn't work. In fact, it has the opposite effect of transforming pain to suffering. Meeting pain with resistance causes us to disconnect from our bodies, minds and hearts. It is this disconnection that creates suffering as we tend to go inwards and in doing so feel alone and adrift in a whirlwind of thoughts that may be filled with judgment and fear. To help ourselves, we need to shift back into connection, into the present moment. When we are triggered and pause before reacting, we're able to be present and that moment is an opportunity to shift from reacting to responding. If we really want to stay connected with our values, with the people that matter most in our lives (starting with yourself!) we must be willing to shift the reactive response to one of understanding, love and compassion. This shift is a moment of profound awareness as we notice how the reactive defense is affecting our body, mind, heart. This moment of awareness is a moment of mindfulness.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>When challenging/painful situations arise meet the pain with compassion and mindfulness...</b></i></span> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="color: #20124d;">"Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." Carl G. Jung</span></i></span></b></span></div>
<div id="r1PostCPBlock" style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; left: -99999px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/c/carljung146686.html" title="view quote">Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Read more at <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/c/carl_jung.html#JX43ujOaSmepzu1I.99" style="color: #003399;">http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/c/carl_jung.html#JX43ujOaSmepzu1I.99</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div id="r1PostCPBlock" style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; left: -99999px; overflow: hidden; position: absolute; text-align: justify; text-decoration: none;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="bqQuoteLink"><a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/c/carljung146686.html" title="view quote">Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Read more at <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/c/carl_jung.html#JX43ujOaSmepzu1I.99" style="color: #003399;">http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/c/carl_jung.html#JX43ujOaSmepzu1I.99</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> The first step towards helping ourselves is to become aware of when we are getting caught up in a story or when our emotions are so overwhelming that we and the emotion become fused. The next time you are feeling overwhelmed pause and reflect on the following questions:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">What is happening in your body right now? (Tension, heart rate is fast, breathing is shallow)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">How are your thoughts affecting you emotionally? (feeling hurt, sad, angry) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">What are you believing? (my partner doesn't love me)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before you react, can you pause and call on the breath to help you ground yourself?</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">As you breathe in really tune into the breath. Think of the breath as an act of self care that helps tame reactive emotions.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Notice how you' re caught up in reactivity; reacting to what is happening. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We need to pause, breathe and bring a feeling of love and kindness towards ourselves. It's important to express understanding and acknowledge the difficulty we are experiencing in going through this challenging time, event, situation or feeling. This pausing and connecting helps us come back to the moment...it is only a first step but an important one.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i><b>Awareness, compassion and learning to stay in the face of pain are essential to healing and connection... </b></i></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><i><span style="color: #20124d;"> </span></i></span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEUqn3zFqsw/VA9T8C1YWrI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/5puNKidG5vk/s1600/file0002105100289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BEUqn3zFqsw/VA9T8C1YWrI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/5puNKidG5vk/s1600/file0002105100289.jpg" height="235" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Awareness is what can help us find our way back to connect with body, breath and life...An acronym that can help is R.A.I.N. it stands for:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Recognize </b>- what is happening. That you've gotten hooked and drifted into thoughts or stories.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Allow </b>- open to your experience. Bring acceptance to meet the pain. If sadness is present then name it and notice where you feel it in your body and pause..can you soften around the sadness...let go of resisting it or judging yourself for it (i.e. I'm weak or silly for feeling this).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Intimacy/Investigate</b> - Get Intimate with what is happening - how are you reacting to your experience. Are you pushing it away? What is in need of attention or kindness?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Non-attachment</b> - know that what you are experiencing (fear, sadness, anger) is an experience you are having and not who you are. For example some people will say I'm just a sad or angry person. You aren't sad every minute of the day and you can't be angry all the time. Being able to see what is happening without getting hooked to it helps you to be more open to the experience.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">These are some tips on ways to begin to explore this healing practice.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">May you be well</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">May you be free from suffering</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">May you be peaceful</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-44352020085604392192014-09-05T09:06:00.000-07:002014-09-05T09:06:40.088-07:00Does the Universe Really Know Me?<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span style="color: #20124d;"><i>"A human being is a part of the whole, called by us Universe..." Albert Einstein</i></span><i><span style="color: #20124d;"> By Joe Hood (Guest Blogger) </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #20124d;"> </span><b><br /></b></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vuuO4GZNylM/VAnYFVqbvBI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/bE-IyLAWCB4/s1600/Universe%2Breally%2Bknow%2Bme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vuuO4GZNylM/VAnYFVqbvBI/AAAAAAAAA9Y/bE-IyLAWCB4/s1600/Universe%2Breally%2Bknow%2Bme.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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For better or worse Mindfulness
allows me to notice things I wasn’t aware of in the past. </div>
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<br /></div>
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As I progress with my practice,
I’m not surprised that I’m more mindful, but I am surprised at how naturally
this comes to me. I now notice things that I never noticed in the past. For
example, I may be struggling with something in my head and out of the blue
someone plays a song that hits me like a ton of bricks. It may not solve the
issue, but it allows me to see it with more clarity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I become more present and open to experience,
I’m able to see what’s happening with a greater depth and perception. Which
leads me to ask the question, how does the universe know me so well? Constantly,
subtle things are presented to me, which fit into place like tailor made gloves.
</div>
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<br /></div>
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I‘ve never been a big believer in
fate, or the idea that things happen for a reason. I mostly subscribe to the theory
that you make your own fate and you’re in control. But I’m not so sure anymore
and that’s “BIG” for me.</div>
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</div>
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Lately, the things that come
before me are so dialed in and relevant, that it’s not to think there’s a
programmer behind the curtain. Sometimes these things are so obvious, that I get
the feeling someone’s messing with me.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #20124d;"><em>"Mindfulness is about being fully awake in our lives. It is about
perceiving the exquisite vividness of each moment. We also gain immediate
access to our own powerful inner resources<br />
or insight, transformation, and healing."- Jon Kabat-Zinn - </em></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ff3GvvUVigY/VAnZWf3z3mI/AAAAAAAAA9o/jafSPpeuHdk/s1600/Change.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ff3GvvUVigY/VAnZWf3z3mI/AAAAAAAAA9o/jafSPpeuHdk/s1600/Change.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
Mindfulness practice has changed
me in many obvious ways and in ways that I’m not even aware of. As my mind becomes
less cloudy, it’s easier to see things that I wasn’t able to see when I was
less mindful and sometimes that’s a little scary. Particularly when these
random things don’t seem so random anymore.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Giving up control is very hard
for me. But I look at it this way; I don’t have to give up TOTAL control. I am
only giving up enough control to allow all the data and information to come to
light. This allows me to act mindfully and proceed with deeper clarity. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Now (don’t tell anyone I said
this), but I do think there is an element of fate to our lives. For me, the
saying “If it’s meant to be” is beginning to mean something and I’m finding
peace in that. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I can see that things do happen
for a reason.</div>
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<br /></div>
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J.H.</div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><i>* This post is shared by guest blogger Joe Hood, who practices
mindfulness meditation on a daily basis and shares his experience with this grounding and peaceful
practice. Sharing his insight and experience is a wonderful way to learn about this practice and I'm honored to have him post on this blog. I'm looking forward to his future posts :-)</i></span></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-15297146489111262812014-03-11T11:22:00.002-07:002014-03-11T16:04:49.410-07:00Expand your world view and open to life and love...Part 1<h4>
</h4>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uogrSIuB0bc/UmBFk-RHcTI/AAAAAAAAA0c/8nW5WeLLZqM/s1600/8555689943_f22e9463e0_z.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uogrSIuB0bc/UmBFk-RHcTI/AAAAAAAAA0c/8nW5WeLLZqM/s320/8555689943_f22e9463e0_z.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">To
see things from a different perspective and expand our view of the
world is to be open to life and everything in it. When we open our mind,
heart and body to pain, joy, love and life, we shift from a narrow view
based on past experiences, hurts, joys, and sadness to see things from
another perspective. This opening to life helps us grow and also opens
our heart to connect with all of life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Opening
to awareness, compassion and acceptance allows us to experience all of
life. The pleasant and unpleasant. We can't grow and heal if we remain
closed to certain experiences.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">When
we are fearful and tighten up in response to fear we become paralyzed
and only experience a fraction of life. We get stuck in our view of the
world and it's like being trapped in a room where the windows are
painted on. We don't see the world; everyone and everything in it for
all the wonder, beauty, sorrow, pain, joy that it holds. We only see our
narrow view of it. This limits how we experience others as we only see
fragments of the people we come into contact with. We may judge others
and look for those whose world view is like ours in an effort to stay
"comfortable and safe, ". The irony is that in trying to stay "safe" we
end up stuck in a room with our own fears, hurts, defenses, etc. We may
get glimpses of how expansive the world is and how expansive we are
beyond the small fearful self but again we retreat at any sign of fear,
threat, etc.</span></div>
<br />
<i><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">“Vulnerability is the only authentic state. Being vulnerable means being
open, for wounding, but also for pleasure. Being open to the wounds of
life means also being open to the bounty and beauty. Don’t mask or deny
your vulnerability: it is your greatest asset. .”
<br /> ―
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/155009.Stephen_Russell">Stephen Russell</a>,
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/451006">Barefoot Doctor's Guide to the Tao: A Spiritual Handbook for the Urban Warrior</a>
</span></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color: #20124d;"><b>Opening your eyes to see from another's perspective can bring healing and growth...</b> </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">In
opening our minds to see the world through other eyes we get a
different perspective on life. We learn about each others wishes, hopes,
dreams, sadness and pain. This is a moment of profound connection of
opening our hearts and really wanting to be present to life and each
other.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b> </b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4iQ0dgcjgyY/Ux9QGhkpCbI/AAAAAAAAA5A/oC-uwHVq8Vw/s1600/new+world+view.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4iQ0dgcjgyY/Ux9QGhkpCbI/AAAAAAAAA5A/oC-uwHVq8Vw/s1600/new+world+view.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It's
challenging and fear can arise with each step we take. We move out of
our comfort zone into the unknown world of other. In beginning to
expand our world view, opening our mind and heart to each other we begin
to see beyond the small self, beyond ego and here lies the potential
for healing and growth. Seeing the world from a different perspective
can help us grow in areas where we are stuck. It can help us heal past
hurts and begin to free up our energy so that we can be more connected
with our aliveness (ability to feel, act, think and sense). We begin to
see the full richness of the world around us; the colors, fragrance,
emotions, sensations, etc. This stepping out of the old way of seeing
and doing things is uncomfortable and scary. If you really want to feel
alive, if you want to experience new things then you must open to life.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It
really is a choice; to live on guard and at war with self and others or
to be open and vulnerable and yes, risk the possibility of getting
hurt.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Which do you choose?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Until next time...</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">May you be well... </span><br />
<h4>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i><b><span style="color: #351c75;">P.S. I will be posting a 2nd part to this with steps on how to help you practice opening the mind and heart. Questions? Please feel free to contact me. :-)</span></b></i> </span></h4>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b> </b></span> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-20665502000078286222014-01-29T14:00:00.000-08:002014-02-19T11:44:39.407-08:00Life and love are calling you...<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvH75r0zB4s/Uulp1kKuwKI/AAAAAAAAA3o/YlIhbBOSf_k/s1600/love+is....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvH75r0zB4s/Uulp1kKuwKI/AAAAAAAAA3o/YlIhbBOSf_k/s1600/love+is....jpg" height="242" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"></span></span></span>Are you listening? Can you tune into your heart's deepest longing?</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One way I tune in is by keeping a journal and taking <a href="http://liveindmoment.blogspot.com/p/mindfulness-we-can-never-obtain-peace.html" target="_blank">mindfulness </a>breaks through out the day. Sometimes I use quotes as writing prompts to reflect and connect with what's happening in my life. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">While some quotes are cliche and over used others are original words from individuals who give or have given of themselves. In writing down their experiences they pass their wisdom on through words and actions. The ones that bring inspiration are ones that help us shift our perspective on how we view and live life, love and ourselves. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Leo Buscaglia's words are inspiring and filled with love and healing. He gave love, spoke about it and helped many students and people learn about the power of living life from a loving perspective. He lived life in service to helping others connect with compassion, love and life. The quote below is one that can inspire, help us pause and reflect on what matters most in life. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #0c343d;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #274e13;">"DON'T MISS LOVE. It's an incredible gift. I love to think that the
day you're born, you're given the world as your birthday present. It
frightens me to think that so few people even bother to open up the
ribbon! Rip it open! Tear off the top! It's just full of love and magic
and joy and wonder and pain and tears. All of the things that are your
gift for being human. Leo Buscaglia"</span> </span></i></span></span></span></div>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The prompts below can help you let go of living in your thoughts, the past/future and connect with the life that is right here and available to you right now: (you can use a journal to jot down your responses):</span></span></div>
<ul><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gagA0UN4qpk/UulezfsVOuI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/E_1VvRT57ro/s1600/Life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gagA0UN4qpk/UulezfsVOuI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/E_1VvRT57ro/s1600/Life.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What I appreciate about today is....</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One thing I appreciate about myself is...</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One thing I appreciate about my loved ones are...</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I feel fully alive when...</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">What happiness feels like in my body...</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">A healing way I can respond to sadness is...</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">One activity that connects me to my breath, my body and this moment is...</span></span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It helps when we connect with the vibrant life that is right here. Once you complete the questions about take a moment and practice the following:</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Pause and connect with the breath as it comes into the body. (Not just taking the breath for granted and breathing in and out)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Attune to the sensation of the breath coming into the body and flowing out. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Notice the fullness as you breath in and the possibility of relaxing and letting go as you breathe out. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Notice the sensations in the chest, lungs and belly as you take in a new breath...</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Appreciate this moment of pure awareness, of connecting with the life that's right here without stories or judgments. </span></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rSKmb4lVBAY/UultYLSKp4I/AAAAAAAAA34/AAH8JkxJads/s1600/I+am.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rSKmb4lVBAY/UultYLSKp4I/AAAAAAAAA34/AAH8JkxJads/s1600/I+am.jpg" height="120" width="200" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span></span></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">May you be happy</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">May you be peaceful</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">May you be well </span></span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-36291351402243912532013-11-21T16:56:00.000-08:002013-11-21T16:56:10.645-08:00Learning to be present...<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--JpAUpvrTlA/UmBG1QqPkRI/AAAAAAAAA0s/pn_dSFkjxDk/w140-h140-p/Open%2Bmind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="wd-zj-pe-Vi" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/--JpAUpvrTlA/UmBG1QqPkRI/AAAAAAAAA0s/pn_dSFkjxDk/w140-h140-p/Open%2Bmind.jpg" style="transform: rotate(0deg);" title="" width="320" /></a>Acceptance is an important part of the practice of mindfulness. On the flip side so is resistance. These two (acceptance and resistance) are connected through awareness or moments we wake up. Waking up means that we notice when we are resisting what is happening within or when we are reacting to the outside world. When we are reacting we are living in the world of stories, judgment and defenses.</span><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Yet there are so many moments that fall by the wayside as we race through life as if there is some imaginary deadline or destination we need to get to. We're surrounded by beauty but are unable to see it when we're caught up in thinking mind or in an emotional tornado. In these moments we are blind to the world that's around us and within us. When this happens we suffer and unable to see clearly or appreciate life. There is an abundance of worry, fear, anger and no space for compassion, acceptance or being present with what is happening right here and right now. I'm not suggesting you drift through life on a cloud or deny that there are things that have to be addressed. This isn't practical, this is denial. What I am suggesting is that there is a need to slow things down, notice when you are caught up in your defenses, stories, or judgment...breathe and notice what you are feeling in your body. Come home to the breath and notice what is happening in your body as you breath. This pausing creates space, a space where we can shift from reactivity to response. What do you need in this moment? What helps to calm the emotions? Maybe pausing and connecting with kindness and compassion.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">Practice pausing and shift from reacting to responding. Allow yourself the gift of listening to this guided meditation on the practice of mindfulness and the Sacred Pause. </span><br />
<br />
<span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><a href="http://media.dharmaseed.org/recordings/2010/08/20100804-Tara_Brach-IMCW-meditation.mp3" target="_blank">http://media.dharmaseed.org/recordings/2010/08/20100804-Tara_Brach-IMCW-meditation.mp3</a> </span><br />
<br />
May you be happy<br />
May you be healthy<br />
May you be peaceful :-)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-25284536134654796562013-10-17T13:02:00.001-07:002013-10-17T13:41:57.173-07:00The gift of opening to life...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GIrYZYrNxQU/UmBBC2qPA2I/AAAAAAAAA0I/ovcKwSmQGdE/s1600/Open+to+life.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GIrYZYrNxQU/UmBBC2qPA2I/AAAAAAAAA0I/ovcKwSmQGdE/s320/Open+to+life.jpg" width="320" /></a>It takes a real willingness to open our hearts, minds and bodies to life and to connecting with others. To be open to both joy and pain. Both are temporary and in their own way create suffering. When in pain our tendency is to clench like a tight fist and in doing so we intensify the pain. Or we begin to catastrophize about how awful the situation we are going through is and when we look to the future we imagine the worst. On the other side of the coin are the things we long for, to feel happy, joyful, connected and alive. So what possible suffering can joy cause? When we are in connection with all of life, with our body, breath and heart we feel expansive and life is wonderful. At the same time we may be wondering and worrying about how long this being joyful is going to last. When this happens we aren't fully present to experience this moment and this one and this one...<br />
<br />
I sometimes experience this in teaching yoga. At the beginning of the practice I am aware of the worries, concerns and things to do. As I arrive in the moment I begin to connect with my body, breath, heart and my surroundings. I am in the moment and at times there is a genuine feeling of peace and calmness that flows through me. At the same time there are moments where I find myself drifting off into thought and this is a reflection of life outside the yoga studio. There can be a real longing to stay in this peaceful place forever but this isn't realistic. Instead, if I can really be present to enjoy the practice and accept that there will be times I drift off into thought then I am not at war with what is happening, lost in judgment or wishing it didn't have to end. It's also important to acknowledge that judging things, experiences, myself and others is a natural part of being human. The real question is can I shift from judgment into connecting with what lies beneath the judgment, can I bring compassion to this getting caught up in judgment, or lost in thought?<br />
<br />
Mindfulness isn't about being present to life in every single moment of the day. It is about bringing awareness to what is happening and arriving back home to the body, heart and mind when we've journeyed into the land of thinking, planning and worrying. Taking the time to reconnect with what is happening right here and now. This practice helps us to see more clearly, to be open to live and feel alive.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zyRdfYK3yKA/UmBCFZwvBsI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/Mv0rnDQ-XOw/s1600/mindfulness+breaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zyRdfYK3yKA/UmBCFZwvBsI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/Mv0rnDQ-XOw/s320/mindfulness+breaks.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Today, pause and take time to connect with both your internal and external world. Read the following and then make a commitment to practice this 3 minute mindfulness practice:</div>
<ul>
<li>Feel the ground beneath your feet, the chair or cushion supporting you...</li>
<li>Gently close your eyes and take 3 full breaths...</li>
<li>On the in breath feel the expansion that happens, the places in your body where you feel the breath the most, on the out breath feel the emptying out, the letting go...</li>
<li>On your next breath scan gently through your body and soften the places that carry tension...</li>
<li>Allow your breath to be natural and see if you can stay connected to the natural rhythm of the breath...</li>
<li>Notice when your mind wanders and bring your attention back to the breath or back to sensations...</li>
<li>End with another three full breaths in and out</li>
<li>Bring your palms together in front of the heart and end with these words of loving kindness</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>May all beings be free from suffering</li>
<li>May you be free from suffering</li>
<li>May I be free from suffering</li>
</ul>
<br />
Notice how you feel and know that you can incorporate these moments of mindfulness throughout your day to help you be present.<br />
<br />
May you be well<br />
May you be happy<br />
May you be peaceful <br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-64884177105265668142013-09-03T11:18:00.003-07:002013-09-03T11:20:07.909-07:00Three words that create connection...How are you?<h2>
<br /></h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MfXs6TEjN_0/UiYdz9mv7LI/AAAAAAAAAxU/poBqS7FR-Lw/s1600/How-are-you-I-care-and.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MfXs6TEjN_0/UiYdz9mv7LI/AAAAAAAAAxU/poBqS7FR-Lw/s320/How-are-you-I-care-and.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Do you take the time to really see the people you come into contact with? I am guilty of saying what's expected. So someone asks me how's my day and I automatically say good or fine...but this isn't always true. So, I was really surprised when I asked the cashier at the grocery store how she was doing and she gave me an honest answer... After my initial surprise I took in what she said and responded with understanding and compassion. Her response to this was a true appreciation for having been heard, seen and validated. Just three words, a real desire to connect and an interest in a persons wellbeing can make a difference on both sides. I felt empathy and she felt gratitude. I'm not suggesting that you go around sharing your life story with everyone! But pausing to really connect with others helps us get out of our heads and into life!<br />
<h2>
<br /><span style="color: #783f04;">Checking in to see how you're doing is an act of care and compassion...</span></h2>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtQghrXd5wo/UiYmOVId0NI/AAAAAAAAAxo/jhvmbK4XiN8/s1600/self+care.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WtQghrXd5wo/UiYmOVId0NI/AAAAAAAAAxo/jhvmbK4XiN8/s200/self+care.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<div>
A good practice is to use this question as a way to check in with yourself...what are you thinking, how are those thoughts affecting your emotions, does it escalate the feelings, are you reacting or responding... It is an opportunity to come into the present moment and see if there is a need to slow things down and really connect with what is happening... This in turn gives you a chance to begin to respond in a way that is healing. It could be pausing to breathe, or give yourself a break from thinking, doing, acting or being. So go ahead and give it a try! When you take care of yourself the world becomes a brighter place, you feel balanced and are able to connect from a place of abundance. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here's a beautiful podcast by Buddhist Meditation Teacher and Psychotherapist Tara Brach where she guides us on how to practice checking in and explains the benefits of this loving practice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/DKR5mcu2J60?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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May you have moments of peace<br />
May your heart be filled with compassion<br />
May you be free from sufferingAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2135458672395517551.post-11612555199347350462013-06-27T23:05:00.001-07:002013-09-06T12:28:21.870-07:00Staying Grounded in the Midst of an Emotional Storm...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhQyx6b6pCQ/Uc0j8zsGZkI/AAAAAAAAAwA/lkoiLuq67qc/s288/breathing+for+fb+cover+page.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vhQyx6b6pCQ/Uc0j8zsGZkI/AAAAAAAAAwA/lkoiLuq67qc/s288/breathing+for+fb+cover+page.jpg" /></a></div>
When you are in the middle of an emotional storm it is hard to stay grounded. The emotion can come on so strong and so suddenly that you are swept up in the feelings and end up saying and doing things, behaving in ways that are irrational and hurtful. Whether you are hurtful toward yourself or others there is a real need to learn how to help yourself through the emotion. Emotions are like the waves of the ocean they are meant to flow through you. What stops this from happening is that our thoughts pair up with the emotion and then we are off and running into stories that are laden with negativity, and fear. It is out of this fear that we often react in ways that aren't helpful. So the next time you find yourself triggered and getting primed to react try the following:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Become aware of the signals your body is reacting to thoughts or feelings (hands clenched, jaw tight, blood rushing to your face, heartbeat racing).</li>
<li>Begin to connect with your breath. Not just breathing, actually attuning to the sensation of the breath enter through the nostrils and feeling the breath fill your chest, lungs and as the diaphragm lifts feel your belly rise. </li>
<li>Count each breath slowly 1........2......3.....4....5....and as you breathe out try and soften the places of tension in your body.</li>
<li>Use a mantra to help soothe the emotions. A mantra can be a positive statement made in present tense such as I breathe in peace, I breathe out peace. Continue until you begin to feel calmness come into your body and the mind is more settled.</li>
<li>Take care of yourself as long as you need to before addressing the issue.</li>
<li>Exlplore what you need in the moment rather than sharing a story filled with judgment, criticism and blame. Instead of telling your partner "You are so selfish.." connect with what came up for you and express this in an "I" statement. An example would be, " I really wanted you to listen to me and understand my feelings."</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Above all know that when you practice mindfulness in moments of intense reactivity you are making a healthy choice to stay present and tend to what is happening in the moment and that is a very loving and compassionate act.<br />
<div>
<br />
May you be well<br />
May you be peaceful<br />
May you be free of suffering...</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05284066783939488349noreply@blogger.com0