Meeting Your Inner-Calm Self
As the Star Wheel
turns bringing with it the darkness of autumn and winter I have been pondering what I would like to share that might be meaningful.
The holidays are upon us and our full lives often overflow. Many articles
and books have been written that explore clever ways to communicate with difficult family members during this often stressful
season. I too have posted an article here about this topic a while back. This year however I would like
to explore a path that can help you maintain an inner equilibrium as you move forward and meet your obligations. It
is not enough to simply survive the holidays. Why not also thrive by finding joy and meaning?
A client recently introduced me to the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn. He is an author and mindfulness leader. Yes...
we therapists do not know everything and are continually learning from those around us. Jon Kabat-Zinn has agreed to
be posted on You-Tube and offers a one hour and 12 minute presentation that explores meditation. During the video
he defines what it is, how it works, why it is important while also providing an opportunity for you to participate.
I would like to emphasize to those who are Christian or have other strong religious beliefs
that meditation in no way diminishes your connection to Christ or whatever spiritual or religious beliefs you hold dear.
Rather the reverse is true. When we are calm and centered inside the religious beliefs we espouse can be held closer
and experienced with greater depth and meaning.
As you prepare to watch the video I encourage
you to set aside enough time to watch it in one sitting. If your computer is not able to keep pace with the video stream
you can turn off the volume and let it play completely through one time while you do something else. You
can then return and watch it without interruption.
I will close for now and let Jon
Kabat-Zinn speak for himself. May you find peace, joy and meaning this holiday season.
Happy holidays, Bill
P.S. Award winning song writer and singer Dave Carroll offers a simple and yet powerful song about being
present now especially when we are faced with sorrow or hardship.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQ1wtftL3nA&feature=related
P As you explore your life it can be helpful to have someone professional beside you who
sincerely cares about your well-being. If you have any comments or questions you are welcome to call me. Bill
Grimsman, M.A. 206/919.1874 (confidential voice mail)
