How to Pause?

Everyday I ask myself, ‘what do I want to write about today?’ And as I sit down to write, my mind draws a blank. Does that happen with you too? Why is that? 

Creativity is a moody little thing, it plays this game with you. The more you try to control it, the more it wanders away. And yet we haven't learned how to manage it… 

In my experience and observation, I have noticed that it's in those moments of peace and quiet, moments where there is no rush, to produce or perform, that is when creative ideas flow seamlessly, without toying with you… Also, those are the exact moments you don't have a pen and paper around you… I am sure you understand the frustration… ;)

Jokes apart… a lot can happen in those moments of peace and quiet, of tranquil presence… If we allow it, if we stay in the here and now, in the mindfulness of it all. Sounds easy, doesn't it? Then why is it that we fear it so much? 

These mindful moments are the doors to the unknown (and the known, but we don't know that). And anything unknown is scary to us humans. Anything unknown feels like a threat. Something we might not be prepared for,impacting our need for security and survival. And hence the distractions! The temptations to stay distracted with our phones, food, alcohol or anything that allows a temporary escape… 

I would like to invite you to pause and experience this peace and quiet I talk about. And I promise to do so in a non-threatening way, if you allow me… 

If this brings up anxiety, stop and take a few deep breaths… And come back when you are ready.

And, if you are ready, read on and dive into momentary bliss. 

(Have a pen and paper handy to make notes)

Space: Find a calm and quiet space around you. Take a seat and notice everything in that space. Notice what is coming up for you as you settle into the space. 

Intention: In your mind or on paper, set an intention for this reflective practice. 

Ask yourself - Who do I choose to be today? (Example: I wish to be Kind today, all my actions will come from a 

place of kindness, regardless of the situation)

How will I be that person?

What is it that I wish to accomplish by being this person?

What am I choosing to let go in order to honour my choice today?

Note: The intention can be of your choosing. You can change the above questions to anything of your choice as long as you are able to sit with them peacefully, without overwhelm.

Presence: mindfully breathe into each of the reflective questions and notice what is coming up. The idea is not to answer the above correctly or to perfect it. The idea is to stay in the present with the help of these questions and be mindful of what is coming up for you. Remember to be kind to yourself. If you notice your mind wandering off, gently bring it back without judgement. 

Reflect: At the end of the day reflect on what worked, what didn't work and what you could do differently tomorrow.

A simple yet effective practice to begin with. If practised with an open mind and consistently, you will notice it getting easier to pause, and be mindful of the present moment. 

Stay tuned, for more such simple tips and tricks. 

Peace & Presence

Kiran

Your partner in the HealingQuest