A Pocket of Peace
by Janice Lynne Lundy
A Pocket of Peace is an intentional pause. It is a sacred opportunity to stop, let go of any emotional or physical duress we may be experiencing, and remember the inner peace that abides within us. When life threatens to overwhelm, when stress, fear, or worry come to call, simply stop, take a breath, and practice this Pocket of Peace. Doing so will bring you home to your truest self - a woman who is naturally calm, clear, and wise.

Everyone needs an oasis in the desert of life.
Your personal oasis is waiting for you.
When you find it, drink deeply of its cooling waters.
Relax in the shade of its sheltering palms.
Be satisfied.
Be well.

~~~~~~~

Let Nature Nurture

  The relaxation response that comes from time spent in nature isn't a fluke, or something to be taken lightly. Many years ago, I read a body of research that documented our body/mind response to nature. What I learned was this: Our relaxation response comes 50% faster when we go out-of-doors, rather than stay indoors.
   The research also noted that the benefits of relaxation experienced out-of-doors will last twice as long as "down time" taken indoors. The evidence is pretty clear. When in duress, or in a time crunch, and you need a "Pocket of Peace," go outside! Whether you're at home or at work, time spent in nature can quickly calm your body and ease your mind. Spending time in nature has another potent benefit: it can plug you into your spirit, and the greater Spirit-the Divine, God, the Universe, the All-whatever term you use to describe your understanding of a higher or intrinsic power.

Step Outside and Tune Your Senses Up to "High"

Take yourself outside, wherever you are right now. Give yourself a few minutes to settle into this environment. Bring your attention to your body and its senses.
   First, focus on your sense of hearing. Take a deep, centering breath and, literally, turn up your hearing. Listen intently to all the sounds that surround you: the wind, the trees, birdsong, laughter, noise or the silence. Notice the effect these sounds have upon you. Concentrate on the sounds that seem to soothe you. Listen intently.
   Next, look all around you. Really see. Tune your vision up to "high." Look up at the sky, down at the ground, side-to-side. What do you see right in front of you? Notice the size, color, and shape of things. Go slowly. Pay close attention to all the details of your natural surroundings. Take another deep breath and turn your vision up a notch. What do you see now that you did not see a moment before? How do these sights make you feel?
   Now engage your sense of smell. Take a deep inhale. What odors and fragrances capture your attention? Spend a few moments just taking them in, identifying them, allowing them to wash over you. Notice how these smells affect your thoughts, your feelings, your mood.
   Look around once more and locate one "object" that appeals to you. A tree? A flower? The grass? Move closer so you can touch it. Reach out, very slowly, and touch it with just the tips of your fingers. What textures do you notice? Cold or warm? Rough or smooth? Hard or soft? Now do the same with your entire palm. Notice its physical qualities and how they feel to your hand. What feelings are stirred within you?
   If you like, continue moving around your surroundings, touching and savoring new things. Keep all your attuned as best you can. Continue to breathe deeply and evenly, relishing this present moment. Feel the soothing effects of Mother Nature in all her glory wash over you, releasing tension, bringing you, once more, to an inner landscape of peace.

Until next time …

May you be happy.
May you be well.
May you be safe.
May you be peaceful and at ease.

Love and Blessings,
Jan Lundy

, available in bookstores nationwide and at amazon.com To learn more about Jan, visit her website, www.awakenedliving.com, subscribe to her free newsletter, and receive a new 90-page, inspirational e-book,

©Janice Lynne Lundy, 2009
Learn more about Jan Lundy and "Pockets of Peace."

September's Pocket of Peace
October's Pocket of Peace
November's Pocket of Peace
December's Pocket of Peace
January's Pocket of Peace
February's Pocket of Peace