The Power of Slowing Down: Reclaiming Peace
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Pexels.comSlowing down has been more challenging than I expected. The last six months have been hectic and chaotic, filled with numerous responsibilities and unexpected events that constantly pulled my attention in different directions. My morning meditation practice, which once brought me clarity and peace, vanished amid the chaos, leaving me more stressed than ever. As a result, my sleep has been anything but restful; I find myself tossing and turning at night, unable to sleep. A shift is required; a shift of energy and direction, a move towards deliberate action and planning (of which I am not a fan).
Embracing Spontaneity
I’m not a planner. When I participated in NaNoWriMo, I was considered a “pantster,” as in fly by the seat of my pants, rather than a planner. This spontaneous approach carries over into the rest of my life, influencing my decisions and interactions with the world. Early on, I discovered that planning was not a way to control life or outcomes; instead, it often led to disappointment when things didn’t go as anticipated. As they say, “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.” This sentiment resonates with me deeply, especially in a world that is constantly changing and evolving.
Plans undoubtedly have their place, offering structure and direction; however, it’s crucial to recognize that unexpected events can and do arise, necessitating flexibility and adaptability. Embracing this fluidity allows me to navigate life with a sense of curiosity and openness, ready to embrace the adventures that unfold, rather than being bound by rigid expectations. In essence, it’s about finding a balance—appreciating the value of planning while also celebrating the unforeseen twists and turns that make life rich and interesting.
To find balance, a slower pace of life is required. Slowing down allows for deeper awareness of the current moment, naturally allowing expectations to fall away and making room for presence to arise. Finding this slower pace takes some planning, some discernment to ensure my needs and my family’s needs are met.
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Pexels.comPreparing for POSSIBILITY
Now, however, I am at a place where planning certain aspects of my family’s week would be advantageous. This involves creating a framework that allows us all to adapt to the unexpected. In doing so, it is essential to cultivate a mindset that embraces flexibility and openness to possibilities. Life can present us with surprises, and rather than fighting against these twists and turns, we should view them as opportunities for growth and learning. By preparing ourselves for a range of outcomes, we foster a family environment that thrives on resilience and creativity, ensuring that we can navigate whatever challenges may come our way while still enjoying moments of joy and connection together.
Small Shifts
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Pexels.comSo easy to write about, yet putting these concepts into practice during times of upheaval is challenging. So here I am, starting small by adding back my morning meditation practice, as I believe in building consistency before making any other significant shifts in my life. This one small shift not only allows me to set the pace of my day (slowing down) but also brings mindfulness to the forefront of my awareness. I find that by dedicating those early moments to quiet reflection, I am better equipped to face the chaos that may arise later. Each meditation session acts as a gentle reminder to stay grounded, helping me cultivate a sense of peace that reverberates throughout my day.
Nurturing Slowness
As I continue to nurture this practice, I hope to gradually expand my efforts, inviting more positive habits into my routine and reinforcing a deeper commitment to my overall well-being. This journey of self-improvement, although modest in its beginnings, holds the promise of lasting change and a harmonious approach to the challenges life may present.
Reflection
I hope wherever you are in your journey, you have a small practice that can offer you comfort and guidance in times of difficulty, something that helps ground you and bring clarity amidst the chaos. Whether it’s a moment of quiet reflection, a daily ritual, or an activity that sparks joy, having this small refuge can make a significant difference. It can serve as a reminder that even in the toughest moments, there are ways to reconnect with your inner strength and resilience, allowing you to navigate through challenges with more grace and determination.
RESOURCES
Dear Reader,
These resources may not be relevant to you directly, but perhaps you know someone who could use support. They are essential tools that can make a significant difference in navigating various challenges related to health and well-being. These are organizations that I am familiar with and have personally relied upon to effectively manage care for my parents, myself, and others. They offer a wealth of information, support groups, and professional guidance that can empower individuals to make informed decisions. By sharing these resources, you could potentially help someone find the assistance they need during a difficult time, bridging a critical gap in care and support.
National Council on Aging: Care Giver Support
American Migraine Foundation
Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiving
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Autoimmune Association Support Groups
OFFERING
heal and balance your heart and mind
If you feel called, I invite you to explore this mindfulness and metta, including practices such as breath awareness, body awareness, and thought observation, similar to Vipassana meditation. This is a gentle introductory practice to connect more deeply with oneself. We will close the meditation with a Metta practice. This meditation promotes compassion and mindfulness in everyday life, fostering a more connected and loving existence
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