If, as Einstein said, we cannot solve problems with the state of mind that created them, then contemplative practices are an indispensable part of the solution to today's real-world problems. In essence,
they are the tools of the revolution to awaken wisdom, resilience and assist all social and environmental movements to become effective and sustainable.
Contemplative practices can sound formal and stiff, it really just means working with any technique or approach that allows us to drop deeply into our felt sense of life and the fullness of the present moment. They also help us to maintain balance in the midst of challenging circumstances, promote empathy and emotional intelligence, improve focus and concentration, reduce stress and enhance creativity. Over time, they generate deep insight into interdependence, cultivate wise discernment, fresh possibilities and awaken a loving and compassionate approach to life.
The combination of contemplative insight and compassion represent the purest and surest source for positive change. Here are some suggested practices...
- Connect with Nature. As we develop a personal bond with nature we will naturally become present and also want to assume responsibility for it. Enjoy more camping, bush walking, visits to the beach, parks, spending time with dogs and participating in vision quests with groups like The Pathways Foundation.
- Learn an Awareness Practice. There is so much to choose from: breath meditation, walking meditation, yoga, loving-kindness practice, expressive movement, visualization, art-making, mindfulness or active listening. They all give rise to new vision and wisdom that will lead to a fundamental and much-needed shift in society.
- LovingKindness Meditation: This core practice cultivates our natural capacity for an open & loving heart, which leads to the development of concentration, connection, fearlessness, and genuine happiness.
- Body-based Therapies: To bring attention away from our minds and into our bodies, therapies such as Craniosacral work, Somatic Pscyhotherapy and yoga help boost health, healing and vitality.
- Commit to Sit. Take the meditation challenge and go on retreat without leaving home. How different will you feel when you meditate every day for a month? What happens when you commit to practices (eg. Tonglen) that promote loving kindness to all beings? Whether you are new to meditation or have meditated before, this goal will help deepen and richen your life.
- Petition Government for Collective Moments of Silence. It is worth learning the fascinating story of Wellesley Tudor Pole and his belief that "the power of silence is greater than you know". He collaborated with Winston Churchill to insitute the Big Ben Silent minute and the silent war rememberance traditions. These were instituted in times of emergency and to remember casualities. What would happen if a bell was rung once a day and Sydney collectively stopped for silence - to offer thoughts of loving-kindness, practice Tonglen or simply focus on becoming present? Was there ever a more urgent time to use this powerful practice to shift collective consciousness?