If it feels like the world is in chaos; it’s because the changes being experienced at this time feel unprecedented. Yet, what appears to be happening in, to and through us feels frightening and insurmountable. However, we have Spirit and fortunately, the Spirit within is our anchor.

“Everyday brings a choice, to practice stress, or to practice peace.”

– Joan Borysenko

 In the Northern Hemisphere, it’s Springtime, as in Spring Forward. Although “politically”, it may not appear that we’re moving forward. Therefore,

• How can I take care of myself in BodyMindSpiritSoul?
• What must I do to cope, adjust, or thrive, more effectively?
• In what way(s) can I spring forward in a healthy way? 

Spiritual Practices

Spiritual practices are key ingredients to healthy living. Spiritual practices focus our attention and energy, helping to center and ground us in the present. Spiritual practices strengthen and deepen our connection to our Creator, Source, Higher Power, and to our own Soul.

What kind of spiritual practices are you currently engaged in?

• Prayer? Meditation? Chanting?
• Attending a church, mosque, synagogue or spiritual center?
• A spiritual community where spiritual practices are reinforced through daily rituals?

Conscious Breathing

 Conscious deep breathing is a practice to release stress and create serenity.  Pause and do some deep breathing now. Read these instructions, then put the article down and try it now.

• Sit comfortably, removing everything from your lap. Uncross your arms and legs,
• Sit tall with your back straight and feet firmly on the ground,
• Allow your hands to rest comfortably on your thighs, palms up,
• Relax your shoulders, relax your jaw, relax your forehead,
• Take in a slow, healing inhalation, hold it, and then release with a sigh,
• Once again, breathe in slowly, hold it, and release your breath with a sigh. Allow your eyes to close,
• This time, while taking in another slow, deep inhalation, contract the stomach, allowing air to fill the chest,
• Hold, then release slowly with a sigh, relaxing the stomach muscles,
• Continue at your own pace, breathing in slowly, holding, and then letting go,
• Remember to keep the shoulders relaxed, throat and jaw soft, comfortably allowing your body to relax even more with each deep inhalation and exhalation.
• Continue this practice for 5-15 minutes, whatever feels comfortable for you.

Practicing deep conscious breathing on a regular basis can have a profound and positive effect within days.

Meditation

Meditation is directed concentration or intentional focus on one thing at a time. The benefits of meditation include:

1. 1. Helps to lower blood pressure
   2. Decreases heart and respiratory rates
   3. Increases blood flow

1. Enhances immune function
2. Reduces perception of pain
3. Relieves chronic pain due to arthritis and other disorders
4. Maintains a level mood
5. Brings awareness and mindfulness to everyday aspects of life

The benefits of meditation increase with regular, consistent practice. Over the years, my own experiences with different types of meditation have been positive, nourishing, and grounding, enabling me to move through my days and tasks in more focused, graceful, and peaceful ways.

Now, who and what are you willing to be, do, and have?

CALL TO ACTION

Spiritual practices undertaken daily help one to minimize and manage stress more masterfully and create more balance in life. Spiritual practices are an important foundation of BodyMindSpiritSoul health and well-being.

Schedule a GPS Guidance Purpose Success Session or Invest in a SOUL GUIDANCE SESSION at: https://www.schedulicity.com/scheduling/TWRUM8

Finally, I’d like to make you aware of a program to upgrade your speaking capacity. Please check it out here:

https://doreendowning.com/courses/find-your-voice-group-coaching-program

What’s your Project 2025? Please share, and let’s explore the next steps together!