There are times in our life when we are in a rather automatic rhythm of responsibilities in family, work and social activities. We are in a bit of a rut, where we are functioning, but we are not flourishing. We might need to come to a stop in our habitual way of living and particularly come to a stop in the busyness of our head. We need to pause and allow more space into the mix.
Often this pause comes about because some unplanned event from outside happens which brings us abruptly to a halt: an illness, an accident, a sudden loss – something that wakes us up from the accustomed, comfortable slumber, creating uncertainty and many uncomfortable, worrying feelings. With such a sudden change we are called to reflect on our present situation. Of course, a lot of our efforts will be to quickly go back to the life that has been interrupted, but sometimes these wake-up calls can be an opportunity to review our life and reflect on what is most important to us. Questions like ‘What gives me a sense of meaning?’ ‘Do I still live by my values?’ ‘What is most important and how can I make sure I don’t lose sight of it?’
Recently my life came to such a halt when I fell whilst walking on stony ground and broke my wrist, leaving me unable to do most things in my daily life and forcing me to stop work for a while. I discovered the virtue and necessity of patience! Now in the slow lane of life, I could use the time to reflect and pause frequently. In those pauses I connect with the breath and open with curiosity to discover what is needed in this moment, not through searching in my mind but through listening to my own embodied experience. When we listen without trying to construct a response, without trying to dictate how we might want things to be or not be, an inner knowledge beyond our thoughts arises from the ground of our belonging to this life, in this time, in this body, in this place. Our response in that moment determines the path that unfolds before us and supports the healing process.
In such time of healing and becoming whole again, we can connect with a deeper level of being where we tap into a sense of trust and find our own voice or other form of expression. Sensing a greater aliveness and move towards what gives us joy.
Of course, it does not need an outside event to make us pause and reflect. We can at many stages in our life take time and review where we are at and where we would like to move towards. This is often made easier if we can do this in the presence of someone who listens deeply. As an experienced psychotherapist and body-focused Mindfulness teacher I can hold the space and support your explorations and reflections and help you with making new steps in the direction you would like to move in.
