MINDFULNESS MONDAY
We all experience pain from time to time. Whether it is emotional or physical, we all tend to respond similarly with focusing on the uncomfortable and challenging experience and we lose the more open lens that allows us to function. Pain can feel all-encompassing, but it does not need to be as intense as our mind makes it out to be.
Studies have shown that mindfulness and meditation can help ease the degree to which we experience pain when it occurs. We can bring a sense of support and peace to our pain by envisioning love and care radiating out from others. As we open our heart to a full acceptance of support from others we are reminding ourselves that we are not alone in our suffering.
A suggestion for the week:
· Begin in a comfortable position where you are able to be at peace and still alert throughout this visualization.
· Close your eyes and take a few breaths to center yourself with deep relaxation.
· Once settled begin this visualization:
‘Imagine that you are seated in a chair in a bright spacious room, the room is light and airy which helps you to breathe deeper. Around you is a circle of friends, family and loved ones that you know or have known in your lifetime, including your pets. All of these individuals have appeared to support you and to gently relieve your pain. Imagine a golden thread of healing light coming from their hearts and expanding outwards. These healing threads reach into our physical or mental areas where we have pain and tension and they are softening whatever friction is present in us.
· Spend 3-4 minutes here embracing their support and being mindful of how your experience of pain might shift in this process.
· When you are finished, come back to your breathing for a few breaths to re-center, then open your eyes.
You can finish with reflecting on how this made you feel, what did you notice and what may have been difficult for you. Where else can you use this visualization to help yourself?
Have a great week!