Our whole life is one big moment in the circling of the universe. One big moment, broken up into segments as events of our lives. Looking at life this way we can see that the phrase 'staying in the moment' could mean making the best conscious use of our entire time here, our one big moment.
Affirmation
Moment to moment I am here.
Moment to moment
Might I be consciously here
Aware of my true eternal, internal self
Best ready for action to face the world
Squarely, purely, lovingly, energetically.
When our actions are the result of our conscious decisions we do make the best of each part of the big moment. A good way to get on track and keep in the groove is by meditating regularly, deeply. Following is a meditation for daily practice to keep grounded, centered.
Begin by choosing a quiet and secluded spot for your meditation session. Wash and put on comfortable clean clothes to remind yourself of the pure soul you are. Sit erect on a cushion on the floor with your legs folded in, or sit erect in a chair with the soles of your feet planted on the floor for balance. Do not lean back in the chair.
Fold your hands in your lap or place them palms up or palms down on your thighs. Close your eyes and start rhythmic breathing, such as 2 counts to breathe in and 2 counts to breathe out. When the pattern becomes regular let go of the counting but keep up the rhythm during the meditation.
Even breathing is important to learn and practice, as breath is the tie between body and mind. When we are agitated conscious even breathing helps calm us down.
Repeat the opening affirmation above. Now reflect on how you can make each moment a conscious experience. I've found by living energetically with the intention of acting for the best, the highest resolve, I preserve my sense of harmony and remain at peace with those around me.
Spend some quiet time listening to the rhythmic sound of your breathing, in, out, in, out, on, and on, in and out.
Think an appreciation for what is good in your life and send out thoughts of peace and harmony for the world and beyond, remembering we are part of each others' moment to moment experience, too. We're all parts of the one cosmic family.
Take a deep breath in and slowly release it. Open your eyes, stretch out and go on with your day in a conscious way.
For offline reading
Meditation Lessons for 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.
Article and photo credit by Susan Helene Kramer. Painting by Vincent van Gogh, Portrait of a Young Woman, end of June beginning of July, 1890, Kroeller-Mueller Museum, The Netherlands.
