Time
has speeded up. We are bombarded on all sides by noise, clutter, confusion,
demands on our minds, hearts, spirits, bodies, and our time. Those with
mates, families, and single parents, seem to endure still more pressures
and responsibilities for contributing to the financial security of the
unit, nurturing, maintaining the home, and the myriad duties associated
with just surviving. What is taking the brunt of all this pushing and pulling?
What is suffering the most and getting lost? Our individual spirit -- our
own heartbeat -- our very essence.
What follows is an exercise which comes from my "Power Of One" class. This exercise has a single purpose, and that purpose is to create a private retreat filled with only those things which give us pure pleasure. No other person is allowed in; no other thought is allowed to interrupt our moments of peace and pleasure. To begin:
Every memory, both happy and unhappy, has a sound, a smell, and a color which contributes to the whole of the memory. Search back in your mind to find those memories which gave you the greatest happiness and pleasure.
Set aside a small space that will be yours alone. This could be beside your bed, or on a dresser, in the bathroom -- anywhere that will not be disturbed.
On this spot, spread a cloth of your favorite color. On this cloth, place a candle in a color that has a special meaning for you. Light the candle.
Behind the candle (far enough away that it won't catch fire!), place a photo, or a travel brochure, a postcard, or even an ad from a magazine of one spot on earth that you have always wanted to visit, but have never been to. Place this high enough that you are looking at the image through the flame of the candle.
Take a piece of material that you love to touch: fur, or satin, or velvet, or leather, or whatever it may be. Remember, there is no right and wrong. This is YOUR space. Place this material in your hands which will be resting in your lap.
Next, pick your favorite sounds. This can be music, nature sounds, chanting -- again, the only purpose is to give you pleasure. Take this with you to your spot, along with earphones. This is very important because listening through the earphones will block outside noise and allow you to concentrate.
Finally, if you have a favorite incense, light it. If you use sage, burn it. If you use scented oils, or have a favorite perfume, put a drop on your upper lip just under your nose.
You're ready. Turn on your sounds, hold your material in your hands, and concentrate on your photo or picture of that place you've always wanted to visit. Sit in total concentration for only ONE MINUTE. One minute is all I ask to begin. Do this every night, as close to bedtime as you can manage. When one minute is not long enough, stay longer -- and longer -- and longer, until your heart is at peace and your spirit re-charged.
What have we done here? All of your senses (except taste) are occupied
with one single purpose; to bring you peaceful pleasure. After you have
done this exercise for a while, you will find that all you have to do to
enter your retreat, no matter where you are, is to close your eyes for
an instant. You will be there and you will be able to experience all of
the restful sensations of that wonderful and peaceful place you have created.
Your balance and perspective will be restored. May you walk in peace and
harmony.
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