Summer is the perfect time to slow down, create some space and listen to what is truly calling us.   Sometimes in our busy lives we get distracted and disconnected from what Judith Wright calls our deepest yearnings.  In her book “Soft Addictions”    Judith invites us to consider how much of our time is spent in activities that could be considered addictive.  These are activities that seem “normal” in our culture e.g., watching tv, constant busyness, shopping, surfing the internet, talking about others.  However, they may be preventing us from living life from a more place that is more alignment with who we truly are.

So what is the antidote to these soft addictions.  Well becoming aware of them might be the first step.  So anything that cultivates mindfulness will assist; meditation, yoga, spending some time in nature, authentic movement.  Just slowing down and creating some space in our day will also also go a long way. I also find it helpful to engage in a practice of enquiry?  Taking the time to journal or explore with a good friend:

1. What am I feeling right now?
2. How does my body feel?
3. What would contribute to my health and wellbeing today?
4. Is there something I am avoiding which would be helpful to take care of?
5. What would be most nourishing to me?

As always, be gentle and compassionate with yourself in your enquiry.   It takes great courage to break free from our habitual patterns that may not be serving us.  This enquiry is not about making ourselves feel wrong or bad for our choices but, moreover, to become more intimate with ourselves so we can engage in life in ways that open us up more and more to who we are. Our heart and soul yearns for activities that contribute to our growth, our aliveness and our creativity.

I will be on vacation during the month of August so Vivianne’s Musings will return in September.  To assist you in your slowing down process I have included a short guided meditation.

Have a beautiful summer, everyone.

Much love,

Vivianne