Stillness Centering

Centerings are like short relaxation practices, with the aim to bring us back to a state of equlibrium. They are sometimes referred to as 'groundings' - it is usually because our heads are full of thougts and it becomes harder to feel the connection with our body. By doing this centering practice you will begin to quieten and still the mind, which will help ease tension, stress and anxiety and encourage calm and clarity.

Transcript

Sit or lie comfortably,

Sensing the shape and feel of your body.

Take your awareness to your mind.

Witness your mind.

Residue from the day's thoughts and internal chatter.

Observe until the mental energy begins to dissipate and dissolve.

When thoughts arise,

Try not to get caught up in the train of the thoughts.

Simply be aware if there are thoughts.

No attachment,

No judgement on your thoughts.

Sit with this until the mind slows.

Notice if there are physical sensations attached to your thoughts.

Now imagine a lake.

The stillness of the water reflects the stillness of your mind.

If thoughts appear,

See them mirrored as ripples or perhaps splashes on the surface of the water.

Notice when the water is distressed in this way,

It is difficult to see clearly.

Aim to still the mind so that you can still the lake.

If you can,

Aim to still the water until it is so calm you can see the clouds reflected on the surface.

Spend a few moments observing the clear,

Calm water of this lake,

The surface reflecting your mind.

How refreshing it is to enjoy this stillness.

Notice how the calm waters of your mind create a gentle ripple of relaxation through the body.

Calm mind,

Slow breath,

Relaxed body.

Slowly and gradually begin to ease yourself out of your chosen position.

Bringing awareness to your body by doing small,

Intuitive movements.

Perhaps have a little stretch and yawn.

Maybe a gentle self-massage.

When you are ready,

Sit comfortably with your hands in Anjali Mudra,

Prayer position,

Bowing your forehead to your fingertips.

Reviews

Great practice, I liked the water metaphor that helped me to calm my thoughts.

Short and sweet. Thanks Katie!