Coming Back to Centre

“At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.” ~ Lao Tzu

“I want you to be everything that’s you, deep at the center of your being.” ~ Confucious

There’s a small ritual I practice often. It’s easy to do, and there is a great power to it, although it is simple. It’s one of the best stress-busters I know. The essence of this practice is to centre yourself in mindfulness and stillness. It encourages you to pause in the craziness of life, take a breath, let go and go within.

It also opens, cleanses and balances your heart, throat, third eye and crown chakra and aligns the energy centres of your body.

Let me show you how it’s done.

Sitting or standing, put both feet squarely on the floor and straighten your spine. Allow your feet to feel heavy, anchoring you into the earth.

Bring your hands together in prayer pose, directly in front of your heart. Soften your eyes and gaze out into the world. Take a slow and deliberate breath. If you are extra stressed, stand or sit this way for a few breaths until you feel yourself begin to relax a little. Let your heart beats slow. Be aware of your body.

Now tilt your head gently down towards your heart. This helps to quieten the chatter in your mind, and begins a connection between mind and heart. Allow the muscles in the back of your neck and shoulders to ease and relax. Consciously focus on your breathing. Feel yourself become calmer.

Close your eyes. Fill your body with slow steady breaths, and exhale away all the tension. Draw your attention inwards – away from the outside world and into your heart.

Stay in this space a while. Let go of all your worries. Be open to insights and emotions. Fill yourself up with a sense of peace. Feel the sacred connection of your conscious awareness with the wisdom of your soul.

Feel your body dissolve, and let yourself expand in all directions. Just be. Breathe. Rest. Enjoy this pause in your day.

And when you open your eyes again take a moment to come fully back into your body before you resume your day with renewed clarity, energy and peace in your heart.