Finding Stillness In a Not So Still World
By Janice Chrysler
It seems we move from fast to faster as we travel through our lives. The world around us is quickly advancing and changing in ways many of us could never have imagined. With discoveries about our Universe and planet being revealed to us on a daily basis we may find we are more confused about life and our very existence than ever before. It would appear that questions are never really answered only uncovering another mystery, giving birth to numerous theories, research and studies. After all, that is what mankind and universal consciousness is all about: expanding of the mind resulting in humankind evolution.
So where does the stillness fit in? There was a time when I would wonder what the saying, “silence is golden” could possibly mean. Boy, have I gained understanding about the importance of being silent and still. All the technology we have today is to “free” up our time but we actually feel more stressed, rushed and discontent than ever before. All instant messaging and texting do not replace a cup of tea with a friend. All the ipod music, computer programs, TV shows do not comfort us like a walk in nature or relax us like the sound of birds or a babbling brook. We have distanced ourselves from nature and the wonder of the universe by analyzing everything and its reason for being here. We seem to think we have to know the “why” for everything and everyone. Perhaps it is time we go back to acknowledging that it is okay not to know, at least for the moment. I am not saying all research should stop and we don’t evolve anymore but if just for a few moments each day, we tell ourselves it is okay just to be. Through all the studying and dissecting we often lose sight of the beauty of this earth, its people and that invisible force that unites us all. How can we reconnect and find our place in this fast paced world?
Regardless of the advancements in science and medicine, artifacts that are uncovered from ancient civilizations, designs for futuristic technology, as spiritual beings we still need to find our own inner peace and contentment in order to be truly happy in this life. There is a longing to experience the oneness with all living things and a greater life force. This can only be felt during those times of silence and reflection. Though our minds average over 60,000 thoughts per day we can put them aside for a bit and allow our spirit to flow freely throughout us. It is during these times that we discover who we are, what we really want out of life and what our purpose it.
There have been studies done on meditation to find out the “why” we do it, what happens when we do and where we go during these extended times of stillness. I have lead many classes and found each participant has their own story, experience and reason for meditating. It is one of those things that are better when left without explanation and simply enjoyed. You can walk in the park and enjoy the beauty of the flowers, the warmth of the sun and grandness of the trees without understanding how they came to be and what will become of them tomorrow. The same is true of meditation; be in the moment and feel it’s positive light and energy embraces you. Go in with no expectations or demands but simply allow yourself to truly feel the soul within. Listen to your own voice, sense the workings of your body and free yourself of anxieties, regrets and remorse as you welcome in the warmth of love, gratitude and understanding.
It is very possible to uncover stillness in a less than still world but only if we look within. Begin today to practice meditation if only for a few moments. Practice and patience will bring you the inner peace and health benefits otherwise unattainable. Don’t look to the world for your contentment for you have it already deep within just waiting to be revealed. Meditation is like receiving a beautifully decorated gift; you won’t know what the box contains until you take the wrapping off. Only then will you discover the priceless treasure hidden inside. Through meditation, we can uncover our own inner gifts and bring them to light in our daily lives but we are the only one who can do this. It is up to us to take the time to be silent and to recognize the stillness found only between our inhalation and exhalation and the timelessness of space. There is a warning, however, that once you begin this journey you will never want to go without it. The feeling of spiritual freedom and sense of calmness that transpires is one you will never want to be without.
So go find a quiet place, sit or lie down comfortably and allow yourself this time to simply be. Begin by being aware of your breath and the moment in between your inhalation and exhalation. It is here you will discover you stillness. Imagine all your muscle groups relaxing and you are releasing your stress with every breath out. Give thanks for all the blessings in your life and take time to release negative emotions and stress. If you are having trouble staying on task, join a meditation group, use a guided meditation CD but allow yourself this time. Your mind, body and spirit will thank you for discovering the stillness in a not so still world.
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