SomaNews – October 2009
Reminders of Change
The seasons change with such grace and dignity. As I observe the green leaves changing to yellow and the birds changing their eating habits to fatten up for the coming winter, I think about how I deal with change.
Change is inevitable ? physical change as I grow older, spiritual change as I grow closer to spirit, and mental change. When I want to change or change comes like a mighty wind unexpectedly, I want it to happen quickly. Just as the leaves change gradually, I need to realize this is the process of human change. It takes time and patience for the shift to happen, but when it does it gives new possibilities that did not exist before.
In this newsletter I am trying something new, and I would love to get your feedback. The somatic practice is a story I have written, a fable or mythological journey to take you into the body of change.
I hope you enjoy this practice. Remember to bring your senses into this story. Use your mind’s eye ? your imagination ? to create a different reality, let’s say a change in the way you see the world.
Quick Somatic Practice for Change
Find a comfortable spot, maybe where sun pours through the window. Take a few breaths and open the door to your imagination. Feel your body and notice how your body reacts. Take a deep breath and walk through the door. Already change has begun.
The forest is filled with Bay and Eucalyptus trees. Take a breath and smell the air. Straight ahead there is a light that grows brighter as the path moves toward it. The sun is reflecting off a mirrored surface. The path ends and you stand before the Mirror of All Seeing, a mirror that reflects the present moment and who you are right now.
Feel your body. What are you noticing as you stare into the mirror? The Mirror of All Seeing stands in the center of the Labyrinth of Knowing. It is aged and has many flaws; it is older than the mountains to the west, and it has been used for centuries for telling of the life that is to be. Your history is gathered in this mirror and comes forth as gifts to support you in the change you are about to make.
It is time to change. Not a fast, turn-quickly-and-run change, but a slow, eyes-wide-open change. Autumn has come and nature is showing you how it is to change with grace and dignity. The leaves turn slowly from green to gold and then to brown, where they let go and drop without regret to become fodder for the next year’s growth. Is this what you need to do at this time in your life, to allow the change to happen at the right speed? If so, accept it and know that it will support you in growing in the future.
What happens when you say change? What stories come forth? Does it feel valuable for you to change, or does fear approach?
What happens in your body? Does the image disappear from the mirror, or does it become clearer?
When you come upon the Mirror of All Seeing, are you ready for the change that is needed to open the door to possibilities?
Inspired Presence Retreat
Sandy Sagrave and I will be holding our next Inspired Presence retreat for women March 25-28 at the Saratoga Springs Retreat Center in Upper Lake, California.
This retreat is a fun, practical, deeply inspiring exploration of our calling to contribute to life now. Using powerful somatic practices — and drawing on feminine wisdom — we’ll journey together to cultivate a deep awareness of our true power and presence.
If you're interested in reserving your spot now or have any questions, please contact me.
