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LOTUS CIRCLE NEWSLETTER |
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I love this concept. We are a civilization of "human
doings" not "human beings". Don't get me wrong I do as much
as the next guy. But as I approach 50, I am more and more interested in
slowing time, in enjoying each precious moment. In appreciating all that
is profound in its simplicity. I still set goals by visualizing exactly
what I want, but I'm not assuming that my peace and contentment is
dependent on the achievement of those goals. In fact, more and more I am finding ways to enjoy the journey
toward the goal. Here are some ways that may help you be present. Methods
to pull yourself out of the past and future, places of residences
preferred by the mind. 1. Each day, spend some time alone.
Time in prayer, meditation, yoga or tai chi. Time just sitting. Not
reading, knitting, watching TV, talking, scratching, or sleeping. Just
sitting. Not even thinking. Thoughts will of course try to invade. That's
fine, but let them drift away, like clouds floating across the sky. This process will awaken you to the frenetic, constant,
repetitive activity of the mind. The constant pressure to be elsewhere
with the assumption that something more needs to happen so you can be
"happy". The first step is the recognition of this process on a
regular basis. The next step is to continue spending time alone, in
prayer, meditation, yoga, tai chi... 2. Each day, find something simple in your life that is
beautiful, interesting, wondrous or amazing. Like a spider web. Or a flower. Or the sun reflecting off
a colorful bird. Or a sunset. Maybe the moon. Or a smile. You get the
picture. Living in appreciation makes every day better, and there is
always something to appreciate. 3. Each day, decide to listen completely in every conversation.
Without second guessing the content you are expecting from the other
person. Without finishing the sentences for him/her. Without already
preparing your rebuttal to the anticipated conversation. Just listen.
Listening is a rare skill these days. It takes practice, and is enhanced
considerably by having a quiet, still mind. 4. Quit fighting "what is". Whatever
is happening in the present moment is happening, whether or not you like
it. It is as it is for now, so increase your level of contentment by
accepting each moment as if you have chosen it. Of course you can take
actions to improve your life, but you can't change the present moment
because it already is... Mental stillness, discovering the profound in everyday life and
living in the moment are very elusive experiences for most people. We put
so much value on doing, on accomplishment, and so little on being. One of
my favorite cartoons showed two cigar smoking, pinstriped executives in
discussion. One lamented that "maybe true happiness comes AFTER the
first $700 million". Tai chi, chi kung, yoga and meditation all teach methods designed
to help you become present, as well as develop a powerful sense of body
awareness and energy (chi) development. Just a few minutes a day. That's
it... They say that it is wisdom to know others, but it is
enlightenment to know oneself. Take a few moments each day to get to know
yourself. ©2002 Dr. Keith Jeffery ____________________________________________________
"Chakra" is a Sanskrit word literally meaning "wheel", or "wheel of light", pronounced "cha-kra" or "sha-kra". A simple definition is "any of several points of physical or spiritual energy in the human body". I will admit that up until four years ago I didn't know a Chakra from a Chicklet. Becoming involved in energy healing raised my understanding and consciousness of these energy vortexes of the human body... well, I'm sure animals have these energy centers too, as I was once required to Reiki a sick llama... locating a llama chakra was a real treat, but for now we will be exploring the human chakra system, though I would welcome any articles exploring animal chakras and healing in the future. The chakra system has been known and recognized by many cultures since ancient times as our energetic links to the physical, emotional, etheric and spiritual bodies. It's important for anyone interested in energy healing, manifesting or psychic development to familiarize themselves with the chakra system and to learn meditation techniques to clear, open, balance, protect and regulate their system regularly, but everyone can benefit from it. There are hundreds of energy points mapped out in the human body, we will begin by exploring the seven major chakras and the subtle energy bodies, with a wonderful article on the basics, "Subtle Bodies and Chakras" from my friend Patrisha Richardson's book, "Transforming Darkness Into Light". I'd also recommend you pick up a copy of this healing, inspiring book from this spunky, delightful "survivor". Enjoy! Love & healing light,
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