We have talked about the value of “Short moments, many times a day”. Also, we acknowledge the value of making small changes, adopting “Tiny Habits” which will accrue and help create new neural pathways, positive changes in our brain. These short moments and Tiny Habits are important and invite us to live our practice throughout the day.
Is it necessary or possibly helpful though, to sit in formal practice in stillness, silence and/or guided meditation? I humbly offer that there are further benefits to be realized from taking time to sit for a longer 20-30 minute (minimum) practice a few times per week. It is in this practice that allows us, invites us to truly bring awareness to each moment. It is during this time that we notice our resistance to sitting, our incessant thoughts that distract us, our breath that may quiet as we move through the resistance, allow our thoughts, and slowly (at times) begin to settle. Is it possible that as we begin to settle that we notice this incredible space that is offered to us in this moment. May we see this invitation to pause from the day’s activity and doing, and settle into a breath that is slower perhaps and a mind that allows thoughts, but is free from following a story. Is it even possible to notice that our thoughts are not the truth? May we breathe into any sensation, emotion, feeling; just noting and allowing... What do we notice?
