Dear Friends,

              I hope this letter finds you happy and well. All is well here. I have been listening to Karen Drucker's album, Songs of the Spirit III the past few days. As a matter of fact I am listening to it right now as I write to you. One song in particular I have been enjoying greatly: "Relax, Let Go" done in a 'doo-wop' style.

 

             I like it so much because in this catchy style, the song actually facilitates relaxation and I easily relax my whole body and mind in that moment. Even, if I thought I wasn't tense, I realize in that moment that there is always a little part of me that could benefit from a little more relaxation. Perhaps my mind is a little busy? Perhaps I am holding that busyness in my shoulders? All I know is that this song helps me 'relax, let go, release and surrender'. I sing along to it, which increases my relaxation. I will include it in the Inspirational Corner links so you can have a listen too!

 

            What is your favourite method to relax, slow down, take a pause? What really works for you? It is always good to swap ideas. You might have a way that I would like to try. 

             

            I will be speaking with you this Sunday on the practice of taking a Pause. Which means checking in, noticing what is happening within, taking a few seconds (or longer if you can) to breathe. Whether it is a satisfying belly breath or a long, deep inhale, hold, longer exhale (so satisfying!)...it all works to center self. Center--that place where self can commune with Self.

 

           Scientific research in the last couple of decades has shown that regularly pausing (including all contemplative practices) works to rewire the brain in a very helpful way! The neocortex part of the brain is newly able to calm the amygdala part of the brain because new neural pathways have been formed, continue to be formed, between these two brains. We can calm our 'fight, flight' activation sooner than ever before. We are building a bridge between the two parts of our brain every time we stop to pause, release, return to center. And that bridge serves to keep us peaceful, calm and content consistently.

 

          It's so encouraging, isn't it? It explains how the master spiritual leaders we admire got to where they are, remaining steadily peaceful, no matter what storm rages. And it promises us, as Jesus did, that we can achieve that same level if we want to, if we choose to work the process.

 

I leave you with these preliminary thoughts to consider my friends. I hope to engage in meaningful discussion with you soon!

Be greatly encouraged,

Mariette