Easy Contemplative Practices That Will Transform Your Life

By Harold Bailey


Contemplative living appears like a preserve of monks and persons with weird imaginations about life. However, there are contemplative practices that ordinary persons can take up to experience the life changing effect of reflective living. In fact, there is no need to visit some strange islands or enlist in a monastery. These activities will pass as every day chores but will leave a profound impact on your life.

People document their daily lives in journals like diaries or blogs. While this might pass as a way to stay organized or take control of your life, it helps you to review your day and discern ways in which you would have achieved more. Keeping a journal also helps you to identify areas you would have done better and therefore move towards self improvement.

Creating a ritual in life will enable you reflect on your routines. Begin by creating a corner that is sacred and defining personal spaces wherever you live. These spaces come with a relaxing feeling that is rewarding to your body, soul and mind. You may participate in retreats and ceremonies organized with stillness and reflection in mind. At the end of such activities, your mind will be clearer and a reasonable path in life established.

Movement has a relaxing or centering effect. Some of the common movement ideas include dance, tai-i chi, labyrinth walking and yoga, among others. These movements insist on a sense of discipline and obedience to routine. Walk at the park or such serene places with the aim of achieving quietness.

Build relationships in an effort to achieve stillness. These relationships are with people who are close to you and do not involve any extraordinary engagements. You may take up the art of story telling where the focus is on virtues or be a good listener. Engaging in deep dialogues is another option you need to consider. Join counsel circles where the aspiration is a better society and your reflective side will be awakened.

Activism has a contemplative impact on the mind, body and soul of participants. Remember that activism is aimed at changing the world to become a better place. Some of the activist activities you can participate in include vigils and marches, attending pilgrimages and volunteering. When you bear witness to life changing incidences, either verbally or through your actions. The courses of activism must be towards a better world.

Creative minds have an excellent opportunity to reflect. In fact, the artistic mind participates in creating the world that everyone desires. You may choose to draw, create a sculpture or collage, among the many other artistic expression ideas. Singing and instrumentation is also an option. Organize or participate in themed exhibitions. The message communicated through art helps you to contemplate and re-imagine a better world.

Meditation in itself is a way to achieve stillness. This includes participating in centering activities where you actually push your spirit into searching for stillness. It creates awareness of your environment and thus allows you to better interact with the surrounding. This will raise your potential and make you more aware of what you can achieve. It is a rewarding experience especially when you really connect with your surrounding.




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