Tuesday, December 26, 2017

Ordinary Contemplative Practices That Will Transform Your Life

By Harold Bailey


Contemplative living appears like a preserve of monks and persons with weird imaginations about life. However, there are contemplative practices that ordinary persons can take up to experience the life changing effect of reflective living. In fact, there is no need to visit some strange islands or enlist in a monastery. These activities will pass as every day chores but will leave a profound impact on your life.

A lot of people have journals in the form of diaries where they record every day events. What is unknown to many is that noting down the occurrences of every day gives you an opportunity to discern. You will chat a new path as you endeavor to amend what you think has gone wrong or could be better. You do not need a detailed journal but only reflections of what your daily encounters taught you about life.

Creating a ritual in life will enable you reflect on your routines. Begin by creating a corner that is sacred and defining personal spaces wherever you live. These spaces come with a relaxing feeling that is rewarding to your body, soul and mind. You may participate in retreats and ceremonies organized with stillness and reflection in mind. At the end of such activities, your mind will be clearer and a reasonable path in life established.

Movement has a relaxing or centering effect. Some of the common movement ideas include dance, tai-i chi, labyrinth walking and yoga, among others. These movements insist on a sense of discipline and obedience to routine. Walk at the park or such serene places with the aim of achieving quietness.

Relationship building is an effective way to achieve stillness. Some of the activities that will enhance your relationships and deliver the stillness required include telling stories about virtues, listening deeply and engaging in reflective dialogues. You may also want to join counsel circles that enable you to aspire for great things, not only for you but the society as well.

Activists also engage in contemplative activities. These activities are geared towards centering the body, soul and mind. As an activist, you must desire a better world. Participate in marches and keep vigils when the community has issues to deal with. Volunteer at charity events and be a witness of the change that the society desires. It is more effective if you are a witness through your actions.

Creative minds have an excellent opportunity to reflect. In fact, the artistic mind participates in creating the world that everyone desires. You may choose to draw, create a sculpture or collage, among the many other artistic expression ideas. Singing and instrumentation is also an option. Organize or participate in themed exhibitions. The message communicated through art helps you to contemplate and re-imagine a better world.

Actual contemplation will also bring you close to inner stillness. There are centering activities that help you reflect alongside the search for silence through mediation. You are more aware of the environment and can interact with it better in order to improve your potential. With greater awareness of self, interactions with people are stronger and more rewarding. You will be in synch with your surrounding.




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