Thought for the Month

It’s sometimes hard to believe how life has changed so much over the past four weeks and so dramatically!!

It’s changed for so many individuals all around the world, in fact there is hardly anybody’s life it hasn’t touched. When there is so much that is negative and challenging going on in the world, it’s important to consider the activity of our mind. If we stay locked into negative, these negative pathways grow, so we need to develop and grow the opposite. You might think this is not possible, but it is with small steps. Have a go and see for yourself.

Firstly, limit how much news you watch, how much time you spend on social media. Take time to remove yourself from it constantly and make a pact every day to be strict about the time you give for news around the virus. Also, be cautious about conversation around coronavirus and also limit these.

Secondly, actively take in the good. Really absorb how beautiful nature is right now in the springtime, it’s beautiful blossoming of trees and bushes, daffodils growing, new shoots everywhere. During your once-aday walk absorb the beauty around you, really let it sink into the cells of our body absorbing its beauty. Consider the positive impact on the environment this is having perhaps spend a little time researching this. There is also a wonderful website full of positive news, spend a bit of time looking at it every day: www.karunavirus.org

3 to 5 things that you’ve reflected on that day that you appreciate or feel grateful for. It doesn’t need to be anything big perhaps it could be the Sun coming out, stunning birdsong each morning, a delicious cup of coffee etc. Also consider using this time to rest and digest, if your life is usually busy, make the most of resting.

Finally, there are many resources free on the Internet right now that you can access that are nourishing and positive and connect you with others. The Mindfulness Association are offering twice daily live meditations, 7 to 8 every evening, Monday through to Sunday and each morning 10:30 to 11 Monday to Friday. Go to the following website and follow the links: www.mindfulnessassociation.net

At these times it’s even more important than ever to connect to others so we don’t feel alone. Many of us feel anxious and frightened by the events going on in the world, and it’s important not to feel isolated when we can contact others in the same position and get support from each other. When we follow these steps above, we grow flowers internally to help us to stay grounded and develop a little bit of calm.

Tina Gilbert lives in Livingston and teaches yoga and meditation. Visit her website at www.yogamed.co.uk * Note: All classes are now running online