As mothers, grandmothers, and nurturers we want this ‘enemy’ to our well being gone. Particularly for our families, but also radiating beyond to our neighbourhoods, countries, and the world. We have a sense that this pandemic may be the opportunity for Mother Earth to heal. We see clearer skies with the endless flight trails gone and natural wonders visible once more. Our cars sit in garages instead of creating traffic congestion around each major city. Animals are venturing into spaces that have been the domain of people, as we humans isolate ourselves in our homes. This is nature in restoration mode. Yet an invisible ‘enemy’ in the form of the Corona virus is present among us.
It is easy for us to get caught up in worry about our current level of cleaning, disinfecting, and additional hygiene practices. We fear for our health and those of our loved ones. We remain socially distant and cautious. We hope any contact does not make us vulnerable to infecting ourselves or others. It is easy to step ever closer to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.
Recently I imagined myself giving a massive hug to the world in my meditation practice. She certainly needs it right now.
But I couldn’t picture that possibility until I let go of my wanting to control the problem. This is a natural human tendency. I needed to have a moment with my feast of feelings within. Acknowledging them, accepting them as being part of me as a human being in this current time. I also needed to resist stuffing them back away to process at another time.
I had to scan and let go of each feeling as they arose – sadness, powerlessness, anger, frustration and despair. If I could name the feeling, I expressed it. With each breathe I sat with the uncomfortable sensations. Placing a gentle hand over where the emotional pain ‘hurt’ with acceptance, not judging or attachment. Once I felt each sensation fully, I didn’t need to linger, it was time to release it with a full exhale through my mouth.
What I experienced was gradual emptying of what I had been carrying. Like removing a heavy coat, pockets filled with emotions, and gradually dropping it to the ground. I felt a sense of restoring and balance. Now I could breathe more fully.
“Calmness of mind is one of the beautiful jewels of Life”
Bob Proctor
It was time to breathe in new feelings – Love, compassion, peace, and the sense of giving our world a big hug.
I encourage you to try this practice as you navigate our current changed world. It is a tool for everyday and available when you need it most. The breath is our most readily available and automatic resources. Most of the time we are unaware of it until our bodies feel tight and uncomfortable. Observing our thoughts and emotions through our breathe is one of the few things we can consciously control.