Relax. Just sit down and relax. Everything goes so fast, so much to do, so make time to do nothing! Even if it’s just 30 minutes a day, down time is needed to have a well-rested soul.
WHAT IS STILLNESS?
Being still means to do nothing, not prayer, not trying to figure anything out, or planning anything. Stillness is to sit and do nothing. At least 10-15mins a day just sit and breath. Best time for me is in the morning. I set my clock 15-20 mins of ahead of scheduled time to wake up. First 5 mins I lay there focusing on not falling back asleep lol. Then I sit up and stretch my arms letting my body know it’s time to start getting up. It’s best not to just jump out of bed and start moving right away rapidly. Instead find somewhere you can stretch your whole body. Then sit and maybe have a cup of tea/coffee. And just relax for at least ten minutes. When its warm outside I like to sit on the porch for a few minutes letting the wind circulate around me, I love filling the wind on my face in the morning!
I know this can be a difficult task as society has taught us otherwise. Dealing with this over communicated society, leaving us spiritually, mentally, and emotionally exhausted. We have to be strong enough to make necessary time for ourselves. Because if we are not good to ourselves first it’s impossible to be good to anyone else. And just know, sometimes, when you begin your healing, nouns (Person,place,or thing) will come along and try to distract you. SOMETIMES it’s us being a distractions to ourselves, so be careful not to attract them into our lives. Distractions may come along from being afraid to heal, the unknown. Lately I’ve been rising before sunrise, it makes a big difference, you get to enjoy some quietness. Or some people may like to stay up late to enjoy the quietness. It’s also good to live in a quiet neighborhood lol. Either way, make time for stillness.
WHY DO WE NEED STILLNESS?
Stillness helps to maintain perspective so I’m not influenced of hundreds of people with a million demands. If I’m not still I find myself in reactive mode, wasting time fighting against the world. Instead, because I practice stillness, I am flowing and I find myself at the right place at the right time. Timing is important. I’ve realized that most times when I’m not hustling and bustling things flow to me freely and effortlessly.
Because I want to stay connected to my true self. My inner voice speaks loudly when I’m in tuned, I’m not reacting to every little thing that most of the time doesn’t have anything to do with me. Because of stillness I know I am whole and at peace. I’m grateful for the past, PRESENT, and what’s to come. I know that every little thing that happen is for the greater good and I’m being prepared for greatness. We all made for greatness we just have to take time to realize it, contrary to belief we weren’t put on earth to struggle… but that’s another whole blog by itself!
I want to make room to notice what matters most and be grateful for it. Stillness brings better discernment, helping us to stay on track and not get bamboozled from the outside world. With stillness we work from the inside out. Noticing what matters most gives us a better perspective, helping us to become more heartfelt. Also, keeps us from focusing on distractions. You became what you think about… so think about NEW DOORS OPENING of positivity and abundance.
WAYS TO PRACTICE STILLNESS:
Schedule a time
As I stated before, best time for me is waking up before sunrise to start my day. I practice stillness every morning followed by praise and worship. For others it may be late at night before bed. A different time of day may be more suitable for you.
Find a place
Best place for me is on the porch when the weather is nice, other times I may sit inside by the window. You may have a private room you like to sit in, or you can continue to lay in the bed after waking up. Find a place best for you. The best way to not be disturbed is to maybe do this while the house is quiet. Sometimes, when I’m at work I sit in stillness not rushing to the next thing. When I’m done for the day, instead of rushing out I may sit for 15mins or so.
Relax your body
You can add soft music like meditation music or sound of the ocean/nature to aid you into a full relax state of mind. Ocean sounds is nice because you can imagine your self being like water flowing easily. Closing your eyes may help too.
Quiet your mind
This may be challenging in the beginning but over time you’ll be able to silence your mind. Not thinking about what you have to do the rest of the day or tomorrow. It’s good to set a time where you have 15-30mins to sit. You don’t want to forget to pick the kids up from school lol… Yea so practice having a clear mind while sitting in stillness.
Be Present
Not dwelling in the past or anxious about the future, be present in the now. This is the most important time. Actually in all honesty this truly the only moment you have. Be happy and content in the present moment.
Stillness/relaxation also will increase energy and focus. It’s like giving our brain and body a reset. Don’t burn yourself out. Remember our mind, body, and soul needs T.L.C.(tender,loving,care).