Tag Archive for: spirituality

Solitude

Dispelling the Myths Surrounding Solitude and Isolation

Let’s discuss the exploration of intentional solitude, its benefits, and the practical steps individuals can take to incorporate it into their lives for holistic well-being.

Intentional solitude is a deliberate choice to step away from the constant noise and demands of the external world. It is not an escape but rather a conscious effort to create a sacred space for self-reflection, personal growth, and the rediscovery of one’s inner self. In this era marked by incessant connectivity, intentional solitude becomes a valuable tool to navigate the complexities of daily life.

To fully appreciate the significance of intentional solitude, it’s crucial to recognize its distinction from isolation. While isolation implies being cut off from others due to external circumstances or internal struggles, intentional solitude is an initiative-taking decision to embrace aloneness as a transformative journey. It is about turning inward to listen to one’s own needs, aspirations, and fears without the interference of external influences.

Incorporating intentional solitude into one’s life involves a variety of practices that cater to the holistic well-being of the mind, body, and spirit. Mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, offer effective ways to cultivate inner peace and awareness. These practices enable individuals to be present in the moment, fostering a deeper connection with themselves and their surroundings.

Engaging with nature is another powerful aspect of intentional solitude. Activities like hiking and swimming provide opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural world, promoting a sense of unity with the environment. Nature has a profound ability to heal and rejuvenate, making it a vital component of intentional solitude.

Your use of Reiki, Integrative Chakra Therapy, and Hypnotherapy as intentional practices further exemplifies the diverse approaches one can take on this transformative journey. These holistic therapies offer not only relaxation but also serve as tools for self-empowerment, helping individuals break free from the noise of external influences and reconnect with their inner selves.

By recognizing the signs of true isolation versus solitude, individuals can make informed choices that align with their well-being. Actively choosing connection, whether through social interactions, meaningful relationships, or engaging in activities that bring joy, adds another layer to the intentional solitude narrative. This integrated approach fosters a balance between solitude and connection, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and self-awareness.

In the end, intentional solitude is a profound and purposeful journey inward, offering transformative benefits for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through mindfulness practices, nature engagement, and holistic therapies, individuals can embark on a holistic journey, breaking free from the chains of isolation and forging a path toward meaningful connections and profound self-awareness.

Blessings: Deirdre

Confronting Fear with Compassion

Navigating our Shadows: Confronting Fear with Compassion

Confronting Fear with Compassion

The recent weeks have brought a variety of interesting moments, as I was navigating my shadows and confronting my fear with compassion. I found myself in corner of deep introspection and self-discovery. Recently I took a significant step, tendering my resignation from a role I’ve held for nearly 14 years. My decision required a substantial reservoir of courage and compassion, as it meant navigating Fear and the idea of potentially letting someone down. I found myself in an internal dialogue, of what if’s, why’s, and how-tos. Meditation and conversations with my emotions did assist me, and I began to see with clarity a path or journey forward.

During this period, I stumbled upon an authentic compassionate message articulated by Pema Chödrön, which resonated deeply with my journey. Her wisdom encapsulated in this excerpt from “When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times” became a guiding light in understanding and confronting my fear. She writes: “Then the young warrior said, “How can I defeat you?” Fear replied, “My weapons are that I talk fast, and I get very close to your face. Then you get completely unnerved, and you do whatever I say. If you don’t do what I tell you, I have no power. You can listen to me, and you can have respect for me. You can even be convinced by me. But if you don’t do what I say, I have no power.” In that way, the student warrior learned how to defeat fear.”

My eyes opened by this insightful dialogue; as fear became a transformative force, illustrating that fear’s power lies in our response to it. By acknowledging its tactics and choosing not to succumb to its demands, one can emerge victorious over fear. This revelation helped to fortify my conviction in the path I chose, reminding me that empowerment arises from understanding and transcending our fears.

We all have those quiet corners of our lives, where the mind whispers of uncertainty. And we often find ourselves face-to-face with fear in those corners with our greatest fears. And did I mention that fear is a formidable adversary, capable of dismantling any of the sandcastle fortresses, of security, we painstakingly build? I felt comfort in the profound work of Pema Chödrön, in “When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times,” as it paints a poignant picture of fear as an entity with the power to talk fast and draw in uncomfortably close, leaving us unnerved, overwhelmed and susceptible to its influence.

When we can visualize or imagine this young warrior seeking ‘the’ answer to defeating fear: we can enter into the intimate conversation with fear itself, and the revelation unfolds. Fear, you see, discloses its weapons—words that race and an invasive proximity. Fear thrives on our compliance, gaining strength when we succumb to its demands. However, in a powerful twist, fear unveils its vulnerability. Its potency lies solely in our obedience; without it, fear withers away.

Pema Chödrön imparts a profound lesson through the student warrior’s journey: to overcome fear, one must listen without yielding, respect without submission, and be convinced without surrender. It’s a dance of empowerment, a delicate balance between acknowledging fear’s presence and refusing to let it dictate our actions.

The essence of this wisdom lies in enjoying life fully, much like building that sandcastle fortress on the shore. Embrace the joy without clinging to it desperately, for the tide of change is inevitable. And all things wash away. So, as we navigate the ebb and flow of life, the key is to recognize fear, stare into its eyes with unwavering determination, and steadfastly choose our own path.

Confronting fear is not about eradicating it entirely; rather, it’s about understanding its nature and disarming it through our resilience and self-empowerment. By embracing the impermanence of our sandcastles, we learn to dance with the uncertainties, finding strength in vulnerability, and transforming fear into our guide rather than our dictator.

And so, I found that quiet corner of introspection, and had that conversation with the shadows of my fears, and I let compassion be my companion. For it was in that gentle embrace of self-compassion and understanding that my fortress of fear began to crumble.

I was able to learn the art of defeating fear, not with force, but with the profound wisdom that arises when we face the shadows with an open heart and an unwavering spirit.

Blessings Deirdre

6 Beneficial Grounding and Clearing Techniques for Everyone

In today’s chaotic world and challenging times, individuals are often finding themselves struggling. Being able to use beneficial grounding and clearing techniques will help manage financial, physical, emotional and spiritual challenges such as, emotional overwhelm, feelings of lostness, ungroundedness or even those imposed upon you from the intense ‘outside’ global ongoings. War, famine, hate, persecution to name a few.

Studies have shown us that to be effective in one’s spiritual growth and healing, a practice of being centered, grounded and clear is crucial. It has become imperative for practitioners and individuals to learn techniques that can support a healthy balance of the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual bodies. To be centered (grounded) is a way to protect ourselves against overwhelm, negative draining energies, and other peoples’ ‘stuff’.

These practices, I am about to share, help you to stay present in the moment. For instance, to Ground is similar to having a tether from you and your energy to Mother Earth, and can provide a sense of stability, balance, and protection. Practitioners, in particular, benefit from grounding as it enables them to differentiate between their own energy and that of their clients. The process of Clearing is the letting go of energies that are not your own or that are not suiting your highest purpose at this time, assisting in developing resistant to the energies of overwhelm, and drain. When practiced daily you may find that you have a more focused and clear process of thought.

The following techniques are part of my daily grounding and clearing routines. By walking you through their processes I hope to bring you a moment of empowerment and self-realization.

1: Grounding or Rooting Visualization

This powerful visualization allows you to feel Mother Earth’s stability and support. Before embarking on a challenging task, find a comfortable, quiet space to rest and start this visualization.

Close your eyes, and take in a few deep breaths, directing your attention inward. In this quiet space, visualize or imagine roots sprouting from the base of your spine or the soles of your feet, extending deep into Mother Earth, reaching the core.

Now as you to visualize any excess or foreign energies flowing down allow it to release through these roots, leaving you cleansed and balanced. And when you feel clear, gently draw up the nurturing and stabilizing energy from Mother Earth through your envisioned roots, filling your entire being with this nurturing energy.

This technique sets a clear intention for your day, affirming that you are grounded, protected, and ready to conquer challenges.

2: Physical Grounding

This technique not only establishes a tangible connection with Mother Earth but also encourages a moment of mindful breathing. Practice when feeling overwhelm or out of control to physically ground and bring your awareness into center. Helping you to regain control over the situation.

Begin by standing barefoot on a natural surface, such as grass, soil or sand. As you focus on the sensation of your feet touching the ground, shift your attention to your body, feeling the reassuring weight of your ‘being’ being supported by Mother Earth. Visualize a connection of you and the earth beneath you. Then, breathe, slow rhythmic breaths, visualizing your excess energy releasing, even if you do not know what that may be, into Mother Earth. You may wish to count your breaths: count of 3 in, hold for count of 3, and release for count of 3.

Notice that connection to Mother Earth and the calming energies flowing through you, notice the breath, the flow, to and from Mother Earth, balancing, grounding, and clearing you.

3: Work with Natures Grounding Crystals / Stones

Popular grounding crystals like black tourmaline, hematite, or smoky quartz can be excellent companions for grounding and clearing energies. I have also found using stones such as moss agate, black obsidian and shungite, amplifies these clearing and grounding techniques.

The practice of selecting a grounding crystal or stone varies for each individual. I suggest you hold it in your dominant hand and place this hand against your heart. Notice how you feel or notice if you are being pushed away or pulled forward. Pushing away indicates this crystal may not be ideal for you. Being pulled forward indicates a good connection with its’ energies.

To use the crystal simply hold or place it nearby and invite the grounding energies into your space. You may wish to close your eyes and connect with the crystal, envisioning its grounding properties enveloping you. Continue the visualization as the energy merges seamlessly with your own, imparting balance, stability and grounding.

Finally taking a moment of gratitude to express thanks to the crystal for its invaluable support.

4. Heart-Centered Exercise

This exercise aims to shift your focus from the mentalism’s of the mind and ground you in the heart center, the place of pure love and compassionate energy.

You begin by closing your eyes and drawing a deep relaxing breath. Then while you continue breathing at your normal rhythm, imagine or visualize a radiant ball of energy, platinum or silver-white, hovering weightlessly just above the crown of your head. Slowly, envision this ball descending, gently down through the crown, passing behind your eyes, your nose, your mouth, allowing it to come to rest just above your heart center. Take in a breath and experience the pureness of this platinum ball of energy. Now, gently imagine that your physical eyes are moving into this ball. Through these eyes allow yourself to perceive your surroundings, Notice what you ‘see’ – knowing that you can experience a 360’ view of your world without using your own eyes or moving your head.

Next, allow your physical ears to enter the ball, your sense of hearing. And, notice that it is as though you can truly hear from just over your heart. Listen, what do you hear? 95% of all communication is nonverbal nonphysical, so listen to the subtilties of truth and compassion.

Now, take a moment to imagine your senses of touch, taste, and smell within the platinum ball, experiencing the world through these senses. What do you sense? How does it feel?

Finally, move your mouth into this ball and give it the ability to speak. It is as if your own voice emanates from deep within your chest, just above your heart center. What does this voice of wisdom, purity, love, and compassion have to offer or say from your heart. Now, rest with this for a moment or two until you feel complete, then open your eyes.

5. Clearing the Fields of Energy

Clearing your biofield is recommended daily technique to release and let go of any errant energies that are not serving you. This simple exercise is most powerful when you tune in and allow you intuition to guide your intention and let go.

We begin by you closing your eyes and visualizing or imagining a gentle mist of rain, like a shower of silver droplets descending from a beautiful waterfall. Breathe in as you feel this soft gentle mist as cleansing droplets touching your crown, then expanding into a purifying shower.

Now, visualize the mist descending and gliding off your body, carrying away with it any negativity or external energies. Releasing those which are ready to be released. Even if you do not understand the nature of these energies, allow them to flow effortlessly into Mother Earth.

Breathe in and sense the energy of the sacred feminine principle, allowing you to continue to release and let go, as the mist magnetically pulls any remnant energies out, leaving your cells, molecules, and atoms feeling clear and refreshed.

When you feel complete, you can open your eyes.

6. Clearing the Mind

As with other clearing techniques, clearing the mind is just as important as clearing the body of unneeded or negative energies. Keeping the mind clear of thoughts that are no longer serving you is a beneficial part of letting go.

In this technique I ask you to close your eyes and imagine the image of a comb, similar to that of a sweeping hand. Now with this image in mind gently move or sweep through your thoughts, gently capturing and removing unhelpful thoughts, discordant thinking, doubts, and fears.

The practice of this technique frees your mind from unnecessary clutter we often hold, allowing you to approach your daily life with a clearer perspective. You may wish to repeat this combing action three times as to thoroughly cleanse your mind, of errant thoughts even those thoughts you might not fully understand. And, when you feel complete you may open your eyes.

Final Words

In the end, understanding the importance of grounding and clearing techniques is paramount. These practices are the keys to maintaining balance and being present in the moment. By incorporating one or more of them into your daily routine, you can create a welcoming and nurturing safe space for both you and those around you. The practices empower you to channel healing energy effectively while remaining grounded, centered, and protected. Whether you are preparing for an energy session or simply seeking to enhance your daily life, these techniques are a valuable addition to your toolkit. Remember, it is not only about staying connected to Mother Earth; it is about staying balanced as you connect. Balanced with your inner self and those you aim to help. So, embrace these techniques and explore the transformative power of being rooted in the heart-centered work of Energy Medicine and Energy Psychology.

A PDF gift: Clearing and Grounding Techniques

Blessings Deirdre

Unleashing Your Inner Power: Embark on a Journey to Self-Empowerment

I understand the desire to tap into personal power, growth, and self-discovery, and the search for tools and techniques that can help unleash our true potential. But how do we determine which tools and techniques are right for us? How can they support us? Do they offer transformative experiences?

When I talk to clients about these three powerful modalities—Reiki, Spiritual Healing, and Hypnosis— I discuss with them how each modality can assist in the releasing of limitations, facilitate inner healing, and awaken their natural abilities.

Reiki: Healing Energy for Self-Empowerment

So, what is Reiki – at its core, Reiki focuses on harnessing the healing power of universal life force energy, known as Chi. This energy naturally flows through the practitioner to where it is needed most. I work with clients using gentle touch in various hand positions or no touch depending on.

  • The clients wishes – yes touch is OK or no it is not OK
  • We are working via Zoom – in a different location, city, country

Aa a practitioner I collaborate energetically with the recipient to promote an overall sense of well-being, relaxation, and rejuvenation of the body, mind, and spirit.

I am facilitating the balance of Ki energy by holding the space and helping move stagnant energy, release heavy emotions, and restore energetic harmony from within. A process I believe fosters self-awareness, empowering individuals to cultivate their own profound sense of well-being.

My clients have noticed with regular Reiki sessions how empowering it is to take an active role in their own healing journey.

  • Developing a deeper connection with the body
  • Cultivating mind-body awareness
  • Addressing personal energetic imbalances
  • Understanding one’s capacity to heal
  • Facilitating personal transformation, healing, and positive change

My Reiki Master once stated ‘that it is a remarkable healing modality that unlocks the innate healing power we all carry within, and by embracing the power of Reiki anyone can embark on a personal journey of self-empowerment’ ~ Doug Horne, Spiritual Reiki Master Shaman.

Spiritual Healing – Integrative Chakra Therapy®: Nurturing the Journey of the Soul

When I am asked what is Spiritual healing? I explain that this modality takes a comprehensive approach by encompassing various practices and modalities. Each one interconnects with the deeper levels of our mind, body, and spirit—the essence of our being. It recognizes the interconnectedness of these aspects and acknowledges that imbalances in the spiritual realm can manifest as physical, emotional, or mental ailments in the physical realm.

In the teachings of Spiritual healing, I have learned that it is not limited to any particular religion or belief system. It involves working with our intention, our higher realms of consciousness, and our personal connection to a higher self or “Oneness” to bring about alignment and transformation.

The goal of spiritual healing is to promote a healthy, balanced, and aligned state on a deep, soul level. And, is recognized in various practices from different cultures and traditions. Spiritual healing can be employed by –

  • Working with the energy of the chakras “Integrative Chakra Therapy® a philosophy developed by Dr. Richard Jelusich, aiming to bring forth balance within the 4 architypes of the human being (physical, emotional, mental and spiritual) and to clear the energy bio-fields (aura: physical, astral, causal) bringing forth inner peace, harmony, and balance.
  • Engaging in inner self-reflection, Meditation, Yoga, Breath Work; therapeutic practices to identify and release negative emotions, traumas, limiting beliefs, or patterns that no longer serve well-being. Helping individuals to find their place in the harmony and balance of all things – the present moment.
  • Through invoking the power of focused intention through Prayer and Meditation to tap your higher states of consciousness, receive guidance, and find comfort and support.
  • Utilizing Shamanic Traditions to work with spiritual guides, ancestors, and elemental forces through healing rituals and ceremonies that restore balance and bring harmony Spirit, Mind and Body.

My clients have informed me through the work of mind-body connection; spiritual healing recognizes the influence of our thoughts, our emotions, and beliefs on our well-being. By introducing practices such as:

  • affirmations
  • visualizations
  • guided meditations

Clients have found help in establishing a sense of connection, groundedness, and present-moment awareness. I believe that when a person engages in mindful practices it allows them to tap into self-awareness, reduce anxiety, and find a place of inner peace.

And of course, one can not negate the importance of being connected to Nature. This connection offers a powerful source for personal growth and healing, fostering unity, nurturing empathy, and owning one’s responsibilities. Spending time in nature, appreciating its beauty, and experiencing its serenity can rejuvenate our own energy system, deepen our understanding of ourselves, and enhance our connection, as we become more aware of our role and responsibilities to the larger web of life.

Hypnosis: Unlocking the Power of the Subconscious Mind

Recently I have witnessed just how powerful a tool Hypnosis is. In working with client to help them access their subconscious mind to create positive changes in day-to-day life. Because the role of the subconscious mind is to protect us, it will or may take beliefs, events, situations, habits, memories we have experienced and use them as current life situations even if they are outdated or misinterpreted. Causing for the client at times states of anxiety, fear, pain, and array of other modalities. It is the job of the trained hypnotherapist to help individuals unlock what is the root of their problem and safely work with them in a state of deep relaxation and heightened focus known as hypnosis.

During hypnosis, clients can bypass the critical (conscious) mind and establish a direct connection with the subconscious. And once in this state, the client, while working with the therapist, can identify and reprogram limiting beliefs, release fears and traumas, and cultivate new empowering thought patterns. This process can lead to a dramatic shift in thoughts, emotions, behaviors, improving self-confidence, and bring forth a positive mindset aligned with the clients’ personal goals.

I like to remind my clients that the conscious mind remains active during a hypnosis session, ensuring the safety and ethical integrity of the session. Clients can deepen or lighten their experience and can event down right lie about situations as they are still very much in control even though they are in a hypnotic state. At no time will they be asked to do something inappropriate and of course this means that they can not be forced to do anything they do not wish to do. Hypnosis is a collaboration with the subconscious mind in the post-hypnotic stage to reinforce and integrate positive changes and works best when clients and therapist have a sound positive report built on integrity and honesty.

To embark on a journey of self-empowerment, one needs curiosity, courage, openness, and a willingness to explore new possibilities. The practices of Reiki, Spiritual Healing, and Hypnosis offer unique pathways to unlock our inner power and unleash our true potential. Combining these modalities can create a transformative collaboration, facilitating profound healing, self-discovery, and personal growth.

To embark on a journey of self-empowerment, one needs curiosity, courage, openness, and a willingness to explore new possibilities. The practices of Reiki, Spiritual Healing, and Hypnosis offer unique pathways to unlock our inner power and unleash our true potential. Combining these modalities can create a transformative collaboration, facilitating profound healing, self-discovery, and personal growth.

Blessings Deirdre

Vivify

Vivify: Revitalize Your Mind, Body, and Spirit

In our fast-paced and demanding lives, finding ways to rejuvenate and revitalize ourselves is essential for maintaining overall well-being. One powerful approach that offers a holistic way to restore and renew is vivify. In this post, we will explore the concept of vivify and how it can help us revitalize our mind, body, and spirit, enabling us to thrive and live life to the fullest.

  • Understanding Vivify: Embracing the Essence of Revitalization
    Vivify is more than a mere word; it represents a profound shift towards rejuvenation and renewal. It encompasses the idea of breathing new life into ourselves, awakening our senses, and cultivating vitality. By embracing vivify, we embark on a journey of self-care and self-discovery, reconnecting with our innate capacity for revitalization.
  • Nurturing the Mind: Cultivating Mental Clarity and Well-being
    The mind plays a vital role in our overall vitality. Through practices such as meditation, mindfulness, visualizations and positive affirmations, we can nurture our minds and promote mental clarity, focus, and emotional well-being. Vivify encourages us to take moments of stillness, explore our thoughts, and engage in activities that uplift and energize our minds.
  • Energizing the Body: Embracing Physical Vitality
    Our bodies require energy and care to thrive. Vivify emphasizes the importance of physical vitality through exercise, nourishment, and self-care practices. By engaging in regular physical activity, adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, and prioritizing rest and relaxation, we can invigorate our bodies and experience increased energy, strength, and overall well-being.
  • Rejuvenating the Spirit: Nourishing the Soul’s Essence
    Nurturing our spirits is an integral part of the vivify process. Engaging in activities that bring us joy, connecting with nature, and exploring our passions can rekindle our inner flame. Practicing gratitude, self-reflection, and acts of kindness also help to nourish our spirits and bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment to our lives.
  • Cultivating Vivify: Practices for Revitalization
    There are various practices and techniques that can be incorporated into our daily lives to cultivate vivify. These include breathwork exercises, body movement practices like yoga or Tai Chi, engaging in creative pursuits, spending time in nature, and seeking support from holistic modalities like Hypnotherapy, energy healing such as; Reiki or Integrative Chakra Therapy® or other modalities. The key is to find what resonates with us personally and integrate these practices into our routines.

To Vivify is to embrace a transformative approach to revitalization, allowing us to tap into our inner wellspring of energy and vitality. By nurturing our mind, energizing our body, and rejuvenating our spirit, we can experience a profound sense of well-being and live life with zest and purpose. Embrace the essence of vivify, and embark on a journey of self-care and renewal, unlocking your full potential to thrive and flourish in every aspect of your life.

Blessings Deirdre

Auras, Energy Medicine

Metaphysics – Chakras – Subtle Energy Healing

Spirituality through Metaphysics, Chakras and Subtle Energy Healing

Integrative Chakra Therapy®

I am pleased to announce I will be teaching Dr. Richard Jelusich’s  Integrative Chakra Therapy®  program in Nanaimo, BC

Thoughts on the Chakras

Thoughts on the Chakra System

Chakras

So what is a Chakra?

What does your Chakra say about you?

What is your purpose is in this life?

“Knowing others is intelligence;
knowing yourself is true wisdom.
Mastering others is strength;
mastering yourself is true power.”
Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

Dr. Anodea Judith author of “Wheels of Life” states: “Chakras are the sacred energy centers within you that carry you toward greater aliveness and realization. As the architecture of the soul, they provide an important map for your wholeness and evolution.”

Dr. Richard Jelusich; author of Eye of the Lotus explains that each “chakra regulates the flow of life-force energy, Psi (also known as Chi or Ki) between the physical and the higher dimensions, and (that) they are the filters through which you perceive life: They are portals for your consciousness to this dimension”.

Barbara Ann Brennan “views the chakras as transformers that receive and process universal energy, as well as enabling expression and healthy functioning of the individual’s own consciousness and psycho-physical make-up.” ~ from Wikipedia

In my opinion each of us is emanated here into this dimension through our Chakras – a set of seven energy vortexes found running from the top of our head the “Crown” to the base of our perineum “Root”. Each one of these vortexes relates to who you are as a spiritual being here in this dimension. Each carries an attribute of who you are and why you do what you do. Let me explain…. Read more

Meditation

Meditation – Not what you think!

I regularly get asked “What is Meditation?” or hear the statement “I’ve tried meditating it is just too hard!”

walking meditationSo what is Meditation and why do people think it is so hard to do? To meditate is the act of one looking within, contemplation; such as a prayer, a thought or to reflect upon and/or to study. It is the quiet time when one connects to ones’ consciousness to reflect on an object, an item or a situation.

I believe Meditation allows the individual to find within the mind a place of peace and solitude, while promoting feelings of awareness of source energy, a connection to oneness. Additionally the action to do, to be in Meditation awakens your self-awareness of purity, love, harmlessness and compassion. It can take time to learn or to teach the mind to let go, to just allow whatever thoughts come, to simply float or drift away. Yet in practicing you are ultimately connecting with the unconscious mind, your spiritual consciousness and to the awareness of all that is.

When I instruct Meditation in a class or to individuals I first ask “What is it that they expect to gain from the process?” I then ask “What have they tried and what was the outcome of that experience?” An individual may use many different practices of meditation or various forms of a certain practice throughout their life. Whatever practice an individual chooses it should be one that allows them to be calm, sit or be in a comfortable position, and allow the breath to flow freely unrestricted by clothing or body discomfort.

Some practices of Meditation that I have experienced are –

Transcendental Meditation – a seated meditation that uses Mantras and Sanskrit phrases/words. It is practiced over the course of 15 – 20 a day to release day to day stress or deep rooted trauma thus calming the mind and the body.

Breathing Meditations – are  seated meditations that have the participant focus on the breath, the rhythm of the breath and deepness or lightness of the breath. Some practices are rapid breathing to release emotional trauma and issues, while others use quiet deliberate breathing techniques to calm the mind and body.

Walking Meditation – this is an action or movement meditation where the participant concentrates or focuses on the experience of the breath and the step. This meditation allows one to become more mindful of our experiences as we learn to stay present in our body and present in the moment.

Guided Meditation – the main component of a Guided Meditation is the voice of your guide, often leading the participant or guiding him/her into a state of relaxation and heart centered-ness. Guided Meditations can incorporate the use of sound such as earth sounds or primordial sounds, drums and those from nature to assist in a visualization process. The goal of this type of meditation is to help the individual find a calming and relaxing state of awareness where they can experience a quiet mind.

Other forms such as Yoga, Zen, Kundalini and Solitude, MeditationVipassana can also assist in promoting spiritual health, self-awareness, spiritual growth, positive  health benefits and a sense of well-being. I would suggest find a studio or practitioner who resonates with you and then try it out.

In the end there are many forms of Meditation and any of them can be a beneficial tool to help bring the Body, Mind and Spirit into balance and harmony. Meditation really isn’t what you think.