And though the road was fraught with challenges and obstacles, he walked it with courage and conviction, knowing that the destination was but a reflection of the journey itself - a journey of the soul.
In everyday life, we can practice reflecting on “the journey itself” using awareness and intention. The practice involves working with expectation and suspending judgement, both inward and outward, allowing room to notice our deepest need. Over time, we can begin to move through our days guided by a unique purpose, living more in the journey instead of towards an unknown destination.
In my daily work, I am grateful for the opportunity to walk beside each of my clients on their journey, navigating their successes as well as challenges and obstacles along the way. However, I know I am only as useful to them, as I am self-aware; recognizing my own challenges and obstacles in moments of self-reflection. Beginning with a practice of mindful breathing, noting each unique inhale and exhale, the rise and fall of the diaphragm, allows me to quiet my mind’s chatter and open up to the stillness of the present moment. Once aware of the present, I begin allowing the breath to be, as it is, no need to rush or hold it, drawing the focus of my attention inward. In moments of busy scheduling or high stress, this may be hard to settle into, finding myself wanting or expecting a certain outcome. To work with this desire to control, I’ll quietly note, there is no right or wrong, there is only what is.
Using this breath and body awareness allows me to be more present with the journey itself!
Reminders for practice:
1.) Begin with the breath
2.) Awareness of the present moment
3.) Allow the breath to be as it is
4.) Suspend judgement over your experience
5.) Note your deepest need
Workbook: Don’t Believe Everything you Think, First ed. Comprehensive Press. 2024. pg. 65.
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