Ordinary Contemplative Practices That Will Transform Your Life

By Harold Bailey


Contemplative living appears like a preserve of monks and persons with weird imaginations about life. However, there are contemplative practices that ordinary persons can take up to experience the life changing effect of reflective living. In fact, there is no need to visit some strange islands or enlist in a monastery. These activities will pass as every day chores but will leave a profound impact on your life.

Journal writing is one of the activities that passes as ordinary. However, as you scribble in the journal, you reflect on the events of your day. These reflections help you to discern the ups and downs and also make amends alongside chatting a better path in life. The journal does not have to be detailed or for publication. Remember that these are personal reflections that will change your life.

Creating a ritual in life will enable you reflect on your routines. Begin by creating a corner that is sacred and defining personal spaces wherever you live. These spaces come with a relaxing feeling that is rewarding to your body, soul and mind. You may participate in retreats and ceremonies organized with stillness and reflection in mind. At the end of such activities, your mind will be clearer and a reasonable path in life established.

Movement is an incredible way of reflecting or getting in touch with your center. There are numerous movement options including dance, yoga, ta-i chi and labyrinth walking, among others. They get you into a routine of discipline and push your body to be better. You may also take a walking meditation to the park or a place where you can achieve the level of stillness desired.

Build relationships in an effort to achieve stillness. These relationships are with people who are close to you and do not involve any extraordinary engagements. You may take up the art of story telling where the focus is on virtues or be a good listener. Engaging in deep dialogues is another option you need to consider. Join counsel circles where the aspiration is a better society and your reflective side will be awakened.

Activism is an effective way to engage in contemplation and thus be a better person. It delivers a centering effect that gets to your mind and soul. Activists envision a better world when they participate in vigils and marches aimed and pushing for a better world. Volunteering will also deliver the desired stillness besides witnessing goodness through your actions to the environment and people around you.

A creative mind is one that focuses on an idea and wants it to be better or extra ordinary. Being a creative gives you a chance to imagine and actualize. Artistic forms you can engage in include collage, sculpturing and drawing. Singing and composing songs is another viable option for people who want to live a reflective life. Through art, you re-imagine a better world and also create it. Communicating with these art forms brings profound insights.

The act of reflection or contemplating will enable you to be still and contemplate on life. Engage in centering activities, silence and meditation to achieve the desired insights. This will make you more aware of your environment, self and most importantly potential. With improved self awareness, you will better interact with people around you and your general environment.




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