Mindfulness For Challenging Times
It’s been over a century since the planet last experienced a pandemic. During these uncertain times, I found it punishing to start this blog. In spite of not feeling 100% with our internal and external worlds, I found a way for my practise to continue. Instead of focusing on what we cannot do, I chose to write about what we can do. Read below on how you can offer yourself words of inspiration for better planning in this new year.
Like any stressors, being in the midst of a global crisis can bring on different struggles, including lack of focus to any day-to-day activity. These challenges can also bring on physical struggles such as losing your temper quicker or reducing your tolerance levels. The following steps will assist in how to continue your practise to ease and overcome the course of challenging times.
Always begin by being gentle with yourself. While learning new steps, allow yourself to take breaks - as many as you feel you need.
First, allow yourself to think and bring to the forefront of your mind a situation that causes you discomfort, pain or torment.
With this thought in mind, notice your body and identify where you feel tension. Are you feeling tense in your head, shoulders or neck? Or is the feeling in your limbs, arms, legs, or feet? Is the tension in your chest, pelvis or stomach? Listen to your body’s signals.
WIth focus on your tense zones, repeat to yourself: “This is a moment of suffering. It's a normal human state. Suffering is a part of life. I am new at learning this.”
After the repetitions, offer yourself a soothing comfort by placing both hands on your heart and repeat to yourself: "May I bring kindness to myself in this situation." Repeat until you feel at ease.
Now in your comfort zone, ask what you can do for yourself right now. Listen to your body and listen to what your needs are to bring you compassion. Try resting, sleeping, sitting in silence, or even preparing a favourite, warm drink.
Follow each of these steps with special attention to being mindful of your body’s signals, and taking as many breaks as you need.
Respect the limitations of your body, recognize when it is time to practise with gentleness, including acknowledging your emotions with compassion, acceptance and freedom.
In times of crisis, "honour the body and the body will honour you back."
About Monica Daza
Monica is a wife and mother of two teenagers. Passionate founder of Zazen Meditation & Self-care Studio. She is a firm believer in the physical and spiritual healing of meditation. Monica shares her passion by empowering individuals in her community, facilitating workshops in Mindfulness, Holistic self-care and Emotional regulation. Under the umbrella of Mindfulness practices, Ayurveda Care, Yoga Therapy and Conscious Breath Work, Monica supports her clients by offering guidance in their healing journey.
Monica is trained in Akhanda- Hatha classical yoga , Ayurveda and Yoga Therapist, Restorative Yoga for emotional balance, Healing meditation, Mantra and Mindfulness based stress reduction. Monica is a strong advocate for mental health in her community to break the stigma.
If you're ready to deepen your mindfulness practice and explore holistic wellness, private sessions, and personalized programs, visit www.zazenme.com
and begin your self-care journey.
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Resources: The Daily Mindfulness.com
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