Balanced

I’m not one of those “do as I say, not as I do” kind of people. For instance if I’m going to teach meditation, I better be keeping a regular practice myself. And I do, almost always, at least once a day (ok, not always so good when traveling). So when I taught a six week course in meditation, and I included using journaling as a form of meditation, I added it to my own practice. It was never something I used in the past, not enough time, not feeling creative, don’t see the benefits, yadda, yadda. Since then, I’ve become a believer. Do I journal everyday? Nope, sometimes not even every week. But when I do, I reap the rewards of a clearer mind, self-reflection and self-discovery. I believe journaling is a form of meditation because it keeps you in the moment. Sure you may be writing about past events, or even what your plans for the future are, but that connection to your thoughts, those observations are what keep you present. That’s why it’s important when journaling to allow those

I am blessed to live in one of the most beautiful areas on earth. Travelers from all over build up their savings to take that trip of a lifetime to Yosemite National Park, just a short drive for me. When I’m in particular need of healing, the woods is where I go. The sounds of the breeze blowing through the treetops, water tumbling over rocks, the sights and smells of all that surrounds me is soothing. And it is more than that, something that is unseen, unheard that reaches into my soul. When I’m out in the forest, I can just stop thinking, quieting my mind and bringing me peace. As naturalist John Burroughs so aptly said, “I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have my senses put in order.” The nurturing effect of nature spans both physical and emotional healing. Numerous studies reveal that within minutes of being outdoors, surrounded by nature, you experience less stress as measured by muscle tension, blood pressure and brain activity. Memory performance and attention span i

It seems to me that, as a society, anxiety is at an all time high. This is certainly to be expected, what with all that's happening in the world right now. Symptoms of anxiety may manifest both physically and emotionally. Tempers are short, irritability is high, many people find it difficult to be motivated or to focus, sleep troubles are more common and we are more isolated from our family and friends.  Anxiety is just one emotion that commonly arises during your meditation, and don’t be surprised when any emotion surfaces. Even in the best of times, it’s understandable, when we are sitting in silence and totally focused on our inner world, that these different emotions come out, often times in some very creative ways, much like what happens in our dreams. You're not doing anything wrong, it's just your mind being human. It's what we as humans do, so be kind and patient with yourself, and be thankful for opportunity it gives you to deepen your practice. So what do you