Life can be quite hectic, particularly when changes are in action. Changing seasons bring different demands~ perhaps pulling different clothing out of the back of the closet or scheduling visits from HVAC professionals to assure that our homes are ready for upcoming weather. Holidays may bring added preparations for gatherings of friends and family, putting up decorations, preparing special dishes, making or buying gifts for loved ones, or reaching out to those who need special help. Whether the busyness of these interludes is joyful and exhilarating or is taxing, it is good for our souls to find moments of quiet and centering amid all the action.

My favorite way to find calm is by doing Ai Chi. I take full advantage of swimming pools, rivers, lakes and oceans when I have the opportunity and join local centers with warm water pools for a steady resource. A focus on breathing and gentle excursions of my limbs and joints nurture my body, mind and spirit. However, sometimes I cannot do Ai Chi. Weather permitting, going for a walk in a natural setting can inspire inner peace and calm, as can listening to poetry or music, or even singing. But there are times when I find myself looking for quiet and mindfulness. Just as doing Ai Chi with others enhances my personal experience, I have found that meditating with others multiplies the gains of mindful practice. Jun Konno guided those doing Ai Chi that there is no one right or wrong way to do Ai Chi and that each practice is unique and personal. I learned that the same is true about meditation from my cousin who hosts group sessions by Zoom.

If you are interested in experiencing an effortless guided meditation or simply basking quietly in calming spaciousness alongside others, email [email protected] for information. Bruce and his wife Elly offer Zoom sessions at various times of day to accommodate participants from multiple time zones.

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