Hello—
How are you doing with your "clipped wings" these days?
Yes, it's frustrating, upsetting, limiting, perhaps even frightening and stifling. Setting all those factors aside, this chaos is also a great chance to dig in and do some deeper practice. On top of what we're already dealing with? Why not? The lessons are front and center. They won't be going away soon—and they can be addressed here and there, moment by moment throughout
your day.
Under the "staying home" framework, the situations we're in and the people we're with have become magnified lessons and teachers—and cutting class is not an option at all. So how can we negotiate and navigate our way as the days pass?
Language is a great way to begin. I know more than once we've all recently found Our Selves in a skirmish with those around us. It's so easy to start blaming, making demands, criticizing or calling someone out—to what end in this environment? So, what if we begin to soften a moment when we want to get our needs met by asking a question that's an invitation, rather than a demand?
"Would you be willing to?…"(2:06) (YouTube Link or Facebook Link). See how this changes the dynamic and allows for all kinds of possibilities and not just yes or no.
Then let's build on the concept of "scrambling for the feed". How much of your day was usually taken up with "Chasing" (2:19)—after this moment, this person, this item, this experience, to meet an
intangible need? When we practice an inner stillness, possibilities can find us much more quickly and easily. (YouTube Link or
Facebook Link).
Are you willing to just allow Your Self to be? and dare to invite opportunities to come to you, rather than dashing here and there in the hopes of chasing them down?
Share your take with us by commenting on either or both pieces.
"…gentle reminders to return to Our Selves."
While there, check out the playlists. Scroll through, find a video that speaks to you, click on it and then watch, learn, and practice by taking the teachings back into your life.
Who do you know who needs these weekly SwaffWords© delivered directly to their inbox? Please forward them this link so they can subscribe.
As a reminder, there are several ways to follow my work, stay in touch or connect with me:
—My Facebook community of like-minded people offers prompts and lessons for your ongoing practice.
—Or let's connect directly through my site or via email.
Don't forget my "Offering for You" of a quick mini session to soften some of the sharp edges you might be experiencing these days.
In the meantime, would you be willing to stop chasing?
Make sure you take a mindful moment several times throughout your day to just breathe…
Continue to be gentle with Your Self.
Stay home. Stay safe. Save lives.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thanks much.
Until next time—
Cheers,
Steph
Stephanie Swafford, BCPP, BFRP
"When It’s Time to Listen To Your Self"
