Hello,
I'm Dr.
Candace Creaseman and this is part three of the three-part series on embodiment.
So far we've worked to bring awareness and compassion to our bodies.
For this final practice we will commit to making changes that support a friendly,
Kind,
And grateful relationship with our bodies.
To enhance this practice you may find it helpful to write down ideas that come to you after we finish.
We will begin and end with a bell.
Find a position that supports your body.
Take some time here to find a way of holding your body,
Whether that is sitting,
Standing,
Or lying down,
That honors what your body may need in this moment.
This is our first act of kindness toward our bodies in this practice.
You can close your eyes or keep them open.
Take a deep breath in through the nose and out through the mouth.
Notice how your body receives the breath,
Imagining how each of your cells are nourished by the breath.
Now allow your breath to find its own pace,
Rhythm,
And depth.
See if you can tune into a feeling of trust in your body to breathe without you controlling it.
Now bring to mind some aspect of your daily routine that your body generally responds negatively to.
This might be skipping breakfast,
Ignoring aches and pains,
Spending too much time in front of a computer.
Consider any action or inaction that creates discomfort in your body.
Try to connect compassionately with the impact this behavior has on your body,
Becoming aware of the sensations that arise,
The messages your body sends to get your attention.
Hold each of these sensations loosely and tenderly,
Knowing or trying to know that your body wants what is best for you.
If you feel intense resistance to compassion,
Feelings of resentment,
Or anger,
Find a different behavior to focus on that feels more flexible and more available.
Now ask your body what it might need instead of your current behavior.
It might crave rest,
Nourishment,
Movement,
Community,
Or play.
See if you can listen fully and slowly without rushing into problem-solving.
You you Let's repeat the practice.
Reflect on another behavior that your body finds troublesome.
Connect with how your body responds to the behavior,
Giving your body your full attention.
Notice any urges to explain or justify your behavior,
Remembering that your task is to become more compassionately aware.
What does your body need?
Take a few moments to continue this practice in silence.
You you you you you Now bring some gentle movement to your body,
Becoming aware of your body in the room.
Consider committing to one of the changes your body requested for the next week.
Each time you're responsive to your body,
See if you can connect with the inherent kindness of this sort of intentionality.
You can open your eyes whenever you're ready.
