Transitions are like traveling along unknown roads to unfamiliar destinations; keeping some familiar habits helps the adjustment.
During transition, body, mind and emotions are tuned to a higher pitch, drawing on our reserves. To do what is unfamiliar takes more concentrated energy than repeating habitual actions.
We can draw in fresh energy to help us keep up with above normal need by increasing aerobic activity, such as by walking, biking, swimming, or jogging, and by replenishing our store of energy through deep relaxation and meditation. Here is a meditation I find helpful.
Preparation: Lie down on your back in a quiet and comfortable place. Let your legs be about a foot apart and your arms down at your sides but not touching your body. Close your eyes. Let your body go limp and heavy.
Begin even breathing. Count 1 breathe in; count 2 breathe out; count 3 breathe in; count 4 breathe out and continue to 50 counts, or another even number.
When your body feels relaxed notice that your mind calms down, making it easier to think how to adapt in changing circumstances. Spend some moments in these thoughts of change, remembering that even in a major transition some things stay the same, such as meals, school or work.
To end the deep relaxation meditation either drift into sleep, or take a deep breath in and out, stretch, and get up.
Like the hawk soaring on drafts in the Grand Canyon
May we gracefully travel prevailing winds of change
Article Susan Helene Kramer
Photo credit Stan Schaap; hawk soaring through Grand Canyon, Arizona
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For offline reading
Meditation Lessons for Teens and AdultsMore than 70 offerings, from guided meditation techniques to on-the-go stress relief and relationship meditations interspersed with verse, and a section of special occasion prayers. 114 pages.
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Meditation for all KidsSitting, walking, dance and group circle meditations, along with positive affirmations, verses and benefits of meditation for kids of all ages and abilities in a 100 page book with illustrations.
