Today was all about joy. And as you can probably glean from the image, I find joy in cuddling with puppies and kittens. I feel all warm and cozy and relaxed just thinking about it . . .
Our teacher, Naami Padi, says that when we’re constantly inundated with all of the things going on in our lives and exhausted as a result, we often forget how to enjoy the little things that bring us joy. Yesterday we learned a technique to step away from our thoughts. Today we learn a way to step into comfort.
She starts by asking us to find a comfy spot and breathe. Let the body do what it knows how to do. Notice our breath. Notice sensations. Sit with them. Focus on the places that feel relaxed, comforted, held, and at ease. All the things that feel good.
Then she encourages us to think about a “sensory pleasure”: something that can be touched, tasted, heard, held – whatever makes us feel good. The first thing I thought of was the feel of the soft fur of an animal. I don’t have any pets at the moment but I remember how it felt to cuddle with my cat, Mia, or my dogs, Dottie and Phoebe. I used to lie on the floor, on my side, and they would curl up with their backs against me. I’d bury my face in their fur and scratch their tummies, play with their ears, and rub their backs or legs . . .
“The body remembers,” Naami says. In spite of everything we’re going through, or have dealt with, our bodies never forget how to be at rest. To feel good. They’ve just “been busy.”
What did you think of during the practice that helped you to relax? How did you feel when you allowed your body to remember how it feels to be at ease? I hope you find something pleasurable that brings you joy and moves you toward good feelings.
#10dayburnout&exhaustionchallenge
#thebodyremembers
#seekjoy
The information provided on this website is intended for educational purposes only and is, in no way, a substitute for professional medical advice. The events, practices, and opinions discussed here are those of the author and should be treated as such. 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! 