Sunday, February 7, 2021

Practicing Presence and Self Awareness with a Clean Slate

 

Practicing Presence and Self Awareness with a Clean Slate

We envision humanity awakening to its spiritual magnificence and discovering the creative power of thought; a world where each and every person discovers his/her own personal power and ability to create an individual life that works within a world that works for everyone.

It may very well be that children have an easier time being present than adults do. To be in the moment, is the natural state of life. It is the only moment we can be in. We can not go back to the past and the future isn't here yet. However our minds sometimes get stuck in thoughts of the past, or day dream of things to come in the future. When this happens we aren't fully aware of our present, our now. Taking time to explore the way we think is a spiritual practice. It helps us focus and notice when our minds drift to other thoughts.

"If you're always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be." Maya Angelou 

When we begin to think about our thinking it's helpful to ask ourselves a few questions to explore what holds our attention and what causes distraction. When we know what those things are, we are better able to navigate being in the present moment instead of daydreaming about the past/future or some other grand adventure. Here are a few questions to get you started. When are you the most alert and focused? (In the morning? after a meal? when you've had a good nights sleep?) What are some of the things that distract you from being fully present in the moment? Is there a pattern of thought that occurs or reoccurs? Do you often think about things in the past or future, and if so which one?  What are some of your favorite ways to be in the present moment? 

"Your emotions are energy in motion. They need a creative and safe way to express through you." Adrienne Cherry 

Our emotions also play a part in how well we are present and self aware. If we've had an emotional upset it may take a minute, or 30, to become present in the now. The same thing happens when we've had a really amazing experience. Our thoughts pull us backward so we can feel the joy a bit longer. The term "A Clean Slate" comes from the time when people would write on a chalk board. Starting from a clean slate, meant that you wiped the board clean and started fresh. Sometimes we need to do this with our thoughts in order to become present. Take a moment to imagine erasing away all the distracting thoughts from your mind. Let them disappear into nothing. Then slowly open your eyes and get on with the task at hand. 

"Finish each day and be done with it. You have done what you could. Some blunders and absurdities no doubt crept in; forget them as soon as you can. Tomorrow is a new day." Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Here are a few affirmations to help you remain in the Now ~ Present and Self Aware.

"I am open to the promise of a clean slate which every moment holds." Rev. Cindy Grimes

I give myself permission to to take care of the spirit within me -Adrienne Cherry

“Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present.” Alice Morse Earle

February is also Black History Month. Below are a few website links that you and your family can explore to bring greater awareness and presence in your home and the world. 

https://ihomeschoolnetwork.com/black-history-month-resources/

https://www.readingrockets.org/calendar/blackhistory

https://www.storylineonline.net/library/?search=black%2520history

Creative Activities ~ Mindfulness ~ Meditations ~ Music.

Mindfulness:5-4-3-2-1 - Identify
5 things you can see - (describe them)
4 things you can touch - (give details are they warm, cold, soft, textured)
3 things you can hear - (listen carefully. Are they far/lose, loud/quiet, consistent/changing?)
2 things you can smell - (close your eyes and tune into your senses)
1 thing you can taste - (it could be something you ate, or want to eat or a memory)

Create a Finger Labyrinth This is a free printable of a finger labyrinth. Use when you need to take a moment away to become present. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/337136722112613090/ 

Every little Cell - Karl Anthony (Music)  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_95QiVJN-U 

Books & Videos - 

What does it mean to be Present - by Rana DiOrio 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5PBevEfpQQ

A Handful of Quiet: Happiness in Four Pebbles by Thich Nahat Hanh
goodreads.com/a-handful-of-quiet 

Have a wonderful week of practicing presence and self awareness! 

Photo credit to Colin Maynard - Unsplash 
Additional content gratitude to: Adrienne Cherry, Shiya Stone, Janell Shiers 


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