Friday, December 22, 2017

Every Day 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.

Journal writing is one of the activities that passes as ordinary. However, as you scribble in the journal, you reflect on the events of your day. These reflections help you to discern the ups and downs and also make amends alongside chatting a better path in life. The journal does not have to be detailed or for publication. Remember that these are personal reflections that will change your life.

There are ritual or routine activities that will help you reflect. They include creating personal space or establishing a sacred corner. You may also have a scheduled retreat or participate in ceremonies that are based on cultural or spiritual organization. These events tune your mind to reflect and thus leave the mind with a clearer vision.

Movement helps you to stay in touch with your center. The movement options you could explore include ta-i chi, yoga, labyrinth walking and dance, among others. These movements enter you into a routine that instills discipline and pushes your body to obey a routine. Walking meditation is another movement option where you head to the park or a serene place where you can achieve 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.

Activism is an effective way to engage in contemplation and thus be a better person. It delivers a centering effect that gets to your mind and soul. Activists envision a better world when they participate in vigils and marches aimed and pushing for a better world. Volunteering will also deliver the desired stillness besides witnessing goodness through your actions to the environment and people around you.

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.

The act of reflection or contemplating will enable you to be still and contemplate on life. Engage in centering activities, silence and meditation to achieve the desired insights. This will make you more aware of your environment, self and most importantly potential. With improved self awareness, you will better interact with people around you and your general environment.




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