One of the earliest teachings I received on meditation was; check in with each part of the body and send it love and gratitude. Thank it for all it does for you - for each body part, each organ, each feeling we are able to experience is a miracle.
I do this by starting with my feet and slowly work my way up my entire body. Then I go deeper. I check in with each of the major organs (like the liver, spleen, kidneys) - connecting with and offering my deep gratitude. I smile at each body part and organ before I move onto the next. I smile from the inside out and I feel my gratitude light up.
This meditation has turned out to be a rather humbling experience for me once I got over my internal dialog.
My first few attempts I was saying things like, "Okay, this is just silly. I am literally talking to my feet and my legs!"
The process was new to me and I often react like this with something that is new and different. I stuck with the technique and in time I started to feel a warm, comforting sensation moving through my body like fluid while I was in the practice. To this day I still practice this technique. It helps me realize how everything is connected. It helps my body settle and experience peace. Like anything else, it takes practice.
For step by step instructions on this Deep Relaxation Practice please visit the highlighted link.
I do this by starting with my feet and slowly work my way up my entire body. Then I go deeper. I check in with each of the major organs (like the liver, spleen, kidneys) - connecting with and offering my deep gratitude. I smile at each body part and organ before I move onto the next. I smile from the inside out and I feel my gratitude light up.
My first few attempts I was saying things like, "Okay, this is just silly. I am literally talking to my feet and my legs!"
The process was new to me and I often react like this with something that is new and different. I stuck with the technique and in time I started to feel a warm, comforting sensation moving through my body like fluid while I was in the practice. To this day I still practice this technique. It helps me realize how everything is connected. It helps my body settle and experience peace. Like anything else, it takes practice.
For step by step instructions on this Deep Relaxation Practice please visit the highlighted link.
Thich Nhat Hanh was the first teacher who taught me this technique. I encourage you to check out his website, Plum Village There are podcasts available on iTunes and the world web. Oprah recently interviewed Nhat Hanh. You can find a copy of the interview by going to Oprah Speaks to Thich Nhat Hanh.
May you find many reasons to smile today.
Deborah
I found many reasons to smile today and be grateful. Thank you for this lesson.
ReplyDeleteThanks Deb...you're such a great teacher and friend.
ReplyDelete