Jo Ellen Fletcher, M.A., LMFT
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Is it hard to find joy?

2/25/2014

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Study people whom you consider to be joyous. If they are hard to find, look to the great living teachers such as the Dalai Lama, or Archbishop Desmond Turu, or great teachers from the past, such as Buddha.  Also observe those who seem to just exist on the planet, or seem joyless or without purpose.  Isn't the difference between these two sets of people their abilitity or inability to be sensitive, to be gentle, to be tender, to be aware, to be mindful of what is exactly in front of them? Notice how the joyous are able to reach out, unguarded and without fear? Whereas the lack of sensitivity deadens us while we are alive, joy brings instant renewal. Walking meditations are an excellent way to tap into the joy of the present moment.


Walking Meditation

Many people find it difficult to sit in meditation for extended periods of time without a lot of chatter in their minds.  Walking meditations is about slowing down and finding the stillness within you.  Finding the joy that lives in the stillness.  Start out slowly at a pace that feels relaxed.  As you walk, exhale long and slowly.  The breath will be drawn naturally back into your body.  As thoughts arise turn your attention back to the full exhale. Choose a quiet neighborhood or park and walk for 15-30 minutes.

Simple Variations on Walking Meditation

Walk with your hands clasped together either in front or behind you.

Walk with particular awareness of each foot as it touches the earth.

Walk with your head slightly bowed.

As you walk, imagine you are leaving a lotus flower on the ground beneath each step.

As you walk, imagine that you are the Buddha or an enlightened being in full awareness.

Walk with a gentle smile on your face.

As you walk, create a rhythm by counting steps as you inhale and exhale.

Commit yourself, beginning now, to reveling the joy of the moment.





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    Author:
    Jo Ellen Fletcher, M.A.
    Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist


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