As we move through this period between Election Day and Inauguration Day, a period which also includes a wide range of winter holidays in many faith traditions (and for some, time with extended family), I am aware that many of us are having lots of intense feelings. What those feelings are may change frequently, and they may feel all over the map: fear, anger, hope, joy, and more.

At times of high emotion like this, a spiritual practice I find useful is focusing on my senses to find positive details in my daily life. I do this by taking a few deep breaths, and then specifically asking myself:

• What do I see right now that is pleasant?
• What do I hear right now that is pleasant?
• What do I smell right now (or perhaps earlier in the day) that is pleasant?
• What do I taste right now (or earlier today) that is pleasant?
• What do I feel (touch) right now that is pleasant?

These don’t have to be dramatic or even particularly meaningful things; they are simple pleasures. My examples from yesterday are:

• A favorite piece of artwork in our breakfast nook
• The sound of my cat purring
• The smell of crisp fall air
• A cup of a favorite tea with milk and honey
• A soft blanket on my lap

I invite you to try out this practice this week and see if it helps you feel more centered and grounded, even in a time of both busy schedules and high emotion.

 

With love and gratitude,

Rev. Diana