Befriending the Body

In a previous talk, we looked at how we might label and better connect with and understand our whole selves. Here, I focus on befriending the body and why it is crucial we accept ourselves as we are now. The alternative is to delay and postpone giving tender, compassionate nurturing to our bodies until they reach some ideal we are holding for ourselves.

I also speak about the different kinds of hunger we can experience, and how identifying which part of us is hungry can add depth to our transformative work & and make it easier to find the most nourishing way to respond.

Reflective Practice: Cues, Reactions, Responses, Rewards

Take some time to think about cues you are conscious of that relate to the change you are focused on. What environment are you in when they arise? Who is around? What time of day is it, where does it come in your flow between waking, work, home, and sleep?

What does your old (or current, if you haven't reached your start date yet) routine give you? How does it reward you? What does it satisfy?

What might give you a same or similar feeling?
Take some time to look at the trigger that is giving you the most trouble right now. What is your current behavior loop/routine around this trigger? How could your disrupt the loop?

When (CUE), I currently (ROUTINE) because it gives me (REWARD)

When (CUE), I will (ROUTINE) because it gives me (REWARD)

Loving-Kindness Meditation Directed to Your Body

This is a meditation that supports our practice of being in tune with and connected with the sensations in different parts our bodies, offering them tenderness and attention. It is different from Yoga Nidra, in that you will by focusing on whatever sensation makes itself most known, then to a neutral or numb part of your body, a part of your body you love, and a part of your body you are at odds with. Be prepared to take the seat of wise observer, and use your journal to reflect on what arises for you.

Get on Your Mat & Move Your Body

Use your pass this week to get to a class, perhaps one that is different from what you might normally do. See if you can also spend some time practicing at home, whether practicing with a video, exploring downward facing dog and seeing where your body takes you from there, or bringing your legs up the wall and focusing on your yogic breathing for 5 minutes.