Relieving Stress

Image via Wikipedia

Necessity is the mother of invention. A stressful world has birthed many paths to “UN-stress” itself. From what I gather, most spiritual practices center around letting the outer self fall away and getting back in touch with the reality of who the person practicing the technique really is. In other words to let the practitioner let go of the mental noise of day to day events, thoughts and extreme emotions, to feel the natural state of tranquility within. Simple yes? Well, simple does not necessarily mean easy.

Being in a relaxed state of mind comes to some as second nature. Being in a relaxed state of mind is to others as distant and elusive as black holes and other galaxies. It is my opinion that in order to enjoy life to its fullest, from time to time it is essential to slip into the silent awareness of oneness with life.

One practice that I have found VERY helpful is the practice of Falun Gong or Falun Dafa.

I do not promote throwing oneself into any spiritual or religious practice completely and accepting its every premise unquestioningly, but I think it is worthwhile and prudent to look at all practices, look at them squarely, evaluate what components of the practice make sense, which don’t, which feel right within, and which bring up an uncomfortable feeling. After this process, take away those aspects of each that make sense and are useful and leave the rest behind.

Within Falun Gong, or Falun Dafa I find the energy work, or the light exercises very very relaxing and always leave me with a feeling of peace and clarity of thought. You can find these exercises at the link http://www.falundafa.org/bul/audio-video/audiovideo_video.html .

The exercise moves are based on the principles of the seven charkas, or energy vortexes, or the sepherot (depending upon which spiritual jargon you prefer) and doing light moves that cause any energy blockages to be opened and to flow. I prefer these because they seem very simple, very quick and very effective. As stated earlier I do not necessarily promote the reading material and the spiritual philosophy, I only understand that the relaxation techniques of the exercises have proven effective for me. Perhaps they would for you as well.

Many other techniques for quieting the mind and feeling the peace that is our true nature are available. The yogic path, all forms of meditation, sincere Christian prayer and many many others.

Most often words are the weakest form of communication. Try not to get caught up in any path’s dogma. All contain an element of truth and all contain the perspective of the all too “HUMAN” human being who is interpreting it. Feelings are our guides in this world. If something feels peaceful and harmonious in your being…..then it probably is for you. If something just doesn’t feel to be true to your inner self…then let it be.

The intention to relax is always the first step. If you seek it, you will find. Wishing peace, wellness and relaxation for you.