Happy Monday!
I’ve been thinking a lot about the thoughts this morning and the stories they tell. About how easy it is to follow those stories and take a journey to places we may not want to go. Places where we often feel alone and confused.
I decided to follow my steps backwards this morning – to the place where a particular set of difficult thoughts began. They led me to my feelings. Feelings which popped up in response to things. Feelings I wanted an explanation for in order to make them go away – to stay in control. So the mind entered with its stories. And I followed willingly – trusting them to be true, whether they were or not.
And though there’s nothing wrong with trying to understand the feelings and the reasoning behind them – (this type of self reflection can be a positive catalyst toward success in our lives) – it’s the tendency to attach judgment or blame that gets us into trouble. Labeling our feelings as good or bad. Looking for who or what may be responsible – ultimately we push the true feelings aside and let the stories take the reins.
A long time ago someone told me I needed to learn to control my feelings. I realize now the feelings are not what needed to be controlled, but rather the thoughts that follow in response to them.
As an acupuncturist I see patients every week who seek to control their pain. They go to doctor after doctor in search of an explanation. Sometimes they get one. Often they don’t. But even when they do, the reason is not what makes the pain go away. In fact, sometimes a diagnosis can lead to more worry and strain. And if prescribed methods don’t work, what then? More questions. More search for reason.
It’s this quest that often creates more struggle. Much like the quest the thoughts take us on – as we search for a reason, more feelings arise – feelings perhaps even more intense or uncomfortable than they were at the beginning. We’re left with a head of confusion, not knowing what to believe.
But what if we tried just sitting with a feeling – not trying to push it aside, or find its reason. Just noticing it’s there. Not labeling it good or bad. Just observing and watching – and seeing how we respond. And when the thoughts arise – carrying with them their reasons and judgments – thoughts we don’t know for sure are true – observing those too. Staying rooted deep within ourselves as the one who notices. Acknowledging whatever it is we feel. Seeing the thoughts and their tendencies. Just being with that.
And returning to the breath.
Taking in the air – letting it create space for it all to exist.
Releasing the breath – letting go of whatever isn’t serving you.
Returning to the present.
This is the practice. This is what we can control. Not what comes up, but what we chose to follow.
This guided meditation is an invitation to come back to the present with the breath and away from the stories that can run through the mind. I hope you find it brings you some ease.

I’ll be posting a new guided meditation this week to continue this practice. And don’t forget we’re meeting tomorrow to practice in person! If you’re in the area, I’d love to see you!

Be well!
Bye for now
❤️