Finding Inner Peace in Turbulent Times: A Guide to Centering
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In the face of adversity and chaos, it's essential to resist the pull of negative emotions such as fear and despair. Instead of viewing ourselves as victims of our circumstances, we can take proactive steps to influence our reactions. Implementing straightforward strategies can shift our mindset, which in turn can positively impact our surroundings.
Understanding and applying these strategies is crucial. Both depression and anxiety can become habitual. The longer we linger in these adverse mental states, the more challenging it becomes to escape them, which can diminish our perspective and lead to catastrophic thinking.
As adults, we have both the right and the responsibility to steer our lives in the direction we desire. This article introduces tools centered around the concept of Centering, which can facilitate this process.
Embracing these techniques offers numerous advantages. Recognizing these benefits will empower you to apply the skills you acquire effectively across various facets of your life, including your professional and personal relationships.
Reconnecting with the Present Moment
Centering is a universal technique found in various forms of exercise, martial arts, and meditation. These methods help individuals discover their core strength and inherent bravery.
> “Open the treasure house within.” — Zen
This serves as a reminder that we possess greater capabilities than we often acknowledge or utilize.
Several Centering methods will be outlined in this article. While these practices are simple, their effectiveness is profound. When incorporated into daily routines, they can lead to noticeable changes in one's demeanor and mindset.
The Power of Attention
> “What we think about becomes who we are.”
Morita, a renowned Japanese psychiatrist and the creator of Morita Therapy, posits that neurosis arises from attention that becomes fixated on negative thoughts.
The more we focus on destructive thoughts, the more they dominate our lives. Fortunately, this can be countered quite easily.
To regain your focus:
- Avoid letting distractions consume your attention. Concentration is a vital skill.
- Dedicate time daily to enhance your focus by stepping away from the chaotic external environment.
- Sit upright, remain still, and concentrate on your breath.
- Acknowledge passing thoughts without letting them dominate your focus.
- Initial distractions may arise, but by simply recognizing them and returning to your breath, they will soon dissipate.
Count your breaths from one to ten and repeat this for at least ten to fifteen minutes without movement. This practice halts the incessant chatter of the mind, which can lead to anxiety and distraction.
Our fears and sorrows often stem from our anxieties. However, by shifting our attention, we can reclaim control over our lives. Regular practice of these techniques strengthens new aspects of our identity that guide us toward fulfillment and purpose.
This self-reflection period provides clarity and stability amid the chaos of daily life, allowing us to draw wisdom and strength from within. When we allow external factors to overwhelm us, we squander our inner resources.
Instead of attempting to dissect and change our patterns, we can directly address our focus. The guiding question becomes:
“What am I concentrating on right now?”
Is my attention directed toward my breath, or am I lost in thoughts about past grievances or future worries?
Every day presents us with new tasks, challenges, and opportunities. Are we conscious of this evolving reality? Are we considering what is available now, what gifts we are receiving, and how we can contribute to others, or are we fixated on perceived injustices?
Cultivating Gratitude
As we consistently practice Centering, we come to realize that depression and gratitude cannot coexist.
When we focus solely on ourselves and our desires, we create a metaphorical prison without bars. This self-centeredness often leads to feelings of worthlessness, further deepening our stress and unhappiness.
As we cultivate awareness and gratitude through Centering, our focus begins to shift toward what we receive, what others require, and how we can contribute meaningfully.
We must take action without hesitation. By focusing on daily tasks and “acts of service,” we can dismantle the mind's tendency to dwell on fleeting emotions.
In our Centering practice, we learn to fully engage in each action, regardless of its size. We release our fixation on outcomes, allowing fulfillment to arise from sincere engagement.
Concerns about results become secondary, as the anxiety tied to outcomes dissipates.
A sense of self-worth emerges as we participate in activities that resonate with our values.
When we act from a place of gratitude, we align our actions with our core beliefs, which enhances our resourcefulness and self-esteem.
This newfound perspective equips us to navigate challenges and support others effectively. Living this way transforms life into an ongoing gift, and we become a gift to those around us.
Thank you for exploring this article. If you're interested in learning more about Centering and self-care, please continue reading and support these authors:
Alicia Cahalane Lewis
Centering Oneself
[link.medium.com](link.medium.com)
Perri Michelle
How Reiki Can Help You Heal, Awaken and Connect to Your Soul
[link.medium.com](link.medium.com)
Shikha Saxena
Reiki: Art of Healing Through Energy Transfer
[link.medium.com](link.medium.com)
Dr. Preeti Singh
Positivity In My Life Is Through Love And Spirituality
[link.medium.com](link.medium.com)
Your continued support is immensely appreciated.
> “Collect yourself. Gather yourself. Center yourself.” > — Adrienne Posey
References: The Morita School of Japanese Psychology [www.moritaschool.com](www.moritaschool.com)
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