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.

~~~~~~~

Soothing the heart

Anxiousness, that swirling, pressure-filled, “I can’t catch my breath” of feeling plagues millions of us. It may be the most common state of mind and emotion that keeps us from experiencing inner peace. I know firsthand the debilitating effect anxiety can have upon one’s well-being for it has been my companion in varying degrees for many years. Today, I am happy to say that I am virtually anxiety free, and I was able to break loose from its paralyzing grip without medication by accessing a “Pocket of Peace” when I needed one. Anyone can.

One of the first indications that anxiety is on its way is shortness of breath, often characterized by a feeling of pressure in the chest. Our thoughts begin to pool around these feelings and a sense of concern creeps in. We begin to focus on how awful this will soon feel, how embarrassed we might be, along with our fear of the “attack” itself. This series of thoughts escalates the anxiety. More shortness of breath, more chest pressure, and, before we know it, we find ourselves immersed in full-blown anxiety. Our thoughts have literally led us deeper into the experience.

Inviting Helpers In

One of the ways we can circumvent this process is to stabilize our thoughts at the onset-—away from what might happen back to the here and now.

Bring your attention to the center of your chest and place your hand there, directly over your heart chakra. Take a few slow, centering breaths. Remember the sacred nature of your breath and allow it to calm you. (See September’s Pocket of Peace.)

Now, remove your hand and imagine that a Divine hand has taken its place. Placed upon your heart, this loving gesture from a trusted other is a gift of the Spirit to reassure you, remind you, that all is well.

Who would that Divine Other be for you? In your spiritual tradition, who represents unconditional loving-kindness? For me, it is Mother Mary who steps forward. I imagine her standing directly in front of me, extending her arm toward me, placing her flattened palm oh, so gently, upon me. If a Divine Other does not come to mind, imagine the most loving human being you’ve ever known (or learned about) and do the same.

Allow him or her to reach out and touch you. Feel the warmth of their hand, see the kindness in their smile, their deep desire for you to be peace-filled and calm. Allow your eyes to gently close. Breathe deeply, evenly, while surrendering to the sensations created by having their loving hand upon your heart. Allow their peace to move into you, through you, like a river of warmth and well-being. Let it flow and flow …

With this Divine Friend as your guide, rest assured that all is well. Sail on and enjoy your journey down a sacred river 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
March Pocket of Peace
April Pocket of Peace