So here we are. Week 1. The focus this week is ‘awareness’ and the seemingly lost art of living in the present moment. How many times have we missed out on something that was going on or weren’t engaged in the moment because we were brooding about something in the past or feeling anxious about what might happen in the future? Have you, or someone you know, ever been in the presence of something awesome or doing something fun and, instead of enjoying it, wondered what you/they were going to do next? Or tomorrow?
This week Sarah talks about being mindful, which she defines as “being engaged in and fully attentive to what you are doing and experiencing in each and every moment, while also being aware of your emotions, thoughts, and judgments.” When our minds are focused on something else, it diminishes our experience, prevents us from connecting with others, and can cause us great stress. However, right now is truly when things are actually happening. Right now is the only moment that really matters. Right now is when we connect to our true selves and our emotions. Sarah says that “the present moment is the only time you can access creativity, make choices, take action, set intentions, reminisce, and make plans.”
In order to practice mindfulness and become more aware of, well, everything, Sarah outlines some exercises that will help us live in the here and now – no matter what it is we’re doing. From washing your hands to driving your car to waiting in line, we are encouraged to pay attention to everything that’s going on around us as well as within us.
She also introduces us to our first mediation exercises: Breath Awareness and Body Awareness. Breath Awareness, done in the morning, teaches us to focus on our breath as we meditate. I’ll admit, this one is difficult for me. My mind tends to wander when I do this exercise, but I just keep refocusing myself on the task at hand and maintain my efforts until the end. The Body Awareness exercise is an awesome one, especially at bed time. It’s amazing to think about how much stress our bodies hold onto throughout the day. This exercise helps us slow down, focus on each part of the body, and gently release the built-up tension from our minds and bodies. These activities have three very specific intentions. Sarah says that they train us in “1) attending to the present moment, 2) easily turning your attention inward to your inner realm, and 3) focusing clearly on one thing at a time.”
With that, let’s begin our meditation journey together. Please read “Week 1 – Awareness: Be Here Now” and begin your meditations tomorrow. Follow along and make sure to do all the exercises and meditations Sarah describes in the chapter. You’ll be glad you did! And I’d love to know how it’s going for you, so please feel free to reach out to me or comment on your thoughts and feelings as the week progresses! I hope you enjoy it all! Cheers to living mindfully!!!
Coming up next, Becoming “Soul-Centered”: Week 2 – Peace: Less Stress
The information and exercises listed above are from Sarah McLean’s book “Soul-Centered: Transform Your Life in 8 Weeks with Meditation”. I have done my best to accurately quote Sarah as well as to adequately paraphrase and express my own thoughts regarding the information in her book.
The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and is, in no way, a substitute for professional medical advice. ALWAYS talk with your doctor about conditions, medications, and concerns you have about your health and work together to determine the best course of action for you.
Wholeness Health and YOU! 