There are several different transitions that we experience throughout the day, from inside to outside, from room to room, from activity to inactivity, etc. Every time that I find myself in a transition, I notice a shift occurring within, sometimes pleasurable, sometimes not so much. Would not it be nice to be able to shift an unpleasant transition into a better state? I would like to discuss three examples of transition that could help us get a better awareness of the process.
- The first is simply the act of moving from the ground to a standing position. Taking care to notice the changes occurring in our body and mind is a gateway, not just in minimizing any ill effects of the transition, but also gaining more benefits from the movement once it is done in a careful way that one's body and mind prefer. For instance, I can become light headed if I try to get up too soon. Through mind and body awareness as well as experimentation, I have found that it is much more agreeable for me to get up slowly, using an inhale and an exhale to guide the movement, as well as leading with the bottom.
- The second example is about when we emerge from a restful nights sleep, to have the light and the sound hit you all at once like that after such a pleasant experience of oneness with peace and rest can be upsetting to say the least. For me, waking up can bring burning eyes, throbbing ears, and an aching head. To prevent this I meditate for a period of time. I call the activity meditation, but you might also think of it as simply sitting with the spine erect, concentrating on the breath as it flows in and out nicely and evenly. When I meditate, I also try to allow myself to just be, letting thoughts come and go, not being very strick about following a thought form, but also reminding myself that it is no fun to be stuck in a certain thought pattern for too long as our greatest sense of ease comes when we accept all and embrace all, not form barriers of defense or preference.
- The third is a bit more difficult, moving from the sanctuary of home to the chaos of work. For me, at least, this is the experience, some might have the opposite. How I approach my situation is preparing myself to embrace the possibilities of what work has to offer in its great business, through prayer and intention, I spend a little bit of quiet time with my thoughts guided in this positive accepting direction. I also find it good to drink and eat something slowly in a mindful and thankful manner, not allot of food and drink, just enough to feel at ease and balance within my body and mind.
Does this transition awareness work? I have not gotten light headed in a long while. Mornings are easier going and more pleasant. I have noticed that I do get less upset and bored at work. This is my experience though. I invite to go out and experiment with your own transition, getting to know what brings a better sense of health and happiness for you as you move from state to state. I pray that this article has given you some space to think about your own possibilities for joy and peace in this matter! May your transitions breath new life into your day, my friend! God bless, peace, love, and joy! Namaste, have a wonderful day! Aaron :-)