Although humanity has never been more connected through modern day technology, there seems to be a huge disconnect in how we engage with life and with each other. Have you noticed this, or have you been staring at your mobile screen for too long?
There is an overload of information and stimulation, but a lack of real intimacy and personal connection. The world is crying out for real care and fewer false promises from the latest app or gadget.
So, how do you return to a state of feeling connected and centered in your own experience?
Very simply actually. By becoming attuned to your own body. Your body will tell you how connected or disconnected you are feeling at any moment.
When you feel disconnected, your body is in a state of stress. Stress hormones, like adrenalin and cortisol, are excreted and you go into survival mode. Your body becomes tired, your muscles feel tense, you might even experience pains and aches. You struggle to fall sleep, to eat, to slow down, and you experience all kinds of cravings and addictions.
On the other hand, when you feel centered and calm, your body triggers the relaxation response. Thank goodness we also have that! Suddenly, everything relaxes and opens up – your blood vessels open up so that blood can carry much-needed oxygen to your cells and remove toxins to be excreted from your body, you can breathe more easily, the ‘feel-good’ hormones flood your body and you have a different experience.
Same body, same world, but a different experience.
What are the simple things that you can do to allow this experience of connection and centredness?
- Slow down. Take a step back from the ‘busyness’ from your life and remember to breathe.
- Talk less.
- When you can, do one thing at a time. Reduce multitasking.
- Do this simple breathing exercise. (will insert link)
- Choose to take a break from your laptop, phone and social media.
- Take walks in nature. Breathe in some fresh air and notice the signs of life around you.
- Say “no” more often to things and people that trigger the stress response in you. Also online.
- Relax into a feeling of calm presence with other people.
- At meals, take a moment to reflect on where your food came from.
- Simplify your life; give up lesser pleasures for greater ones.
- Remember you are a human being, not a human doing.
