“When your world moves too fast and you lose yourself in the chaos, introduce yourself to each color of the sunset. Reacquaint yourself with the earth beneath your feet. Thank the air that surrounds you with every breath you take. Find yourself in the appreciation of life.”

Christy Ann Martine

Happy Monday! 

I hope you had a pleasant weekend!

Last week, we touched on the importance of understanding that mental health is a journey, not a destination. When I asked how’s your driving, I’m sure you knew I was referring to the process, not the current landing place. We talked about choices and effort and how to consider each aspect of our lives because it all matters.

This week, let’s explore meditation as one component of the journey. The experience means different things to different people. For some, it’s a way to slow down and regain focus. For others, it’s a practice that empties our minds to allow new thoughts and imaginings. For still others, it’s contemplative, reminding ourselves to rest and refresh.

I really like this quote I found written by Christy Ann Martine, an author from Ontario, Canada:

Photo by Jessica Shaevitz. No copyright infringement intended.

Meditation is the practice of calming your mind. Bruce Lee advised us to become water, emptying our minds to be available for any eventuality. Bryant McGill told us that a calm mind is a weapon against our challenges. Sadhguru said it’s the “means of dissolving invisible walls that unaware has built.” And I appreciate this imagery from the Bhagavad Gita:

“When meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like a flame of a candle in a windless place.”

Meditation is not something to fear but a practice to assist us in accessing daily peace and a way to slow down and enjoy the journey.

Some practices have rituals and routines surrounding the discipline. Other applications are open to interpretive thought, like mindfulness. Another variation is contemplative prayer, which is a discipline in how to be present with God. Scripture reminds us throughout the Bible that meditation and prayer are essential.

Here are two of my favorite verses:

“praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints…” Ephesians 6:18 (ESV)

“Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.” Philippians 4:6 (MSG)

Meditation is a beautiful addition to our daily practices. Find a peaceful place. Settle into a rhythmic breath pattern. And begin the process of quieting your mind. As you do, you’ll enter into a new experience where your mind is free from chaos and confusion. It may be one minute at a time until you strengthen your meditative muscles, but the effort will yield surprising results.

Take a few moments each day this week to feel the earth beneath your feet, watch a sunset, or consider each breath. Be grateful for all the blessings in your life – large and small!

Be Well & Be Blessed!

Lucinda