The Ease Within Which One Can Center...
Your bodies are in a constant state of self-regulation, continually searching for equilibrium within a given context of inputs. When those inputs produce a high level of stress over an extended period, we can remain in a sympathetic state as the body strains toward rest. The norm is often to “burn out” in order to force ourselves into rest. What is less utilized is the ability to consciously ease back into rest—to move toward a parasympathetic state.
In today’s zeitgeist of healing, the sympathetic state is often equated with fight, flight, or freeze, while the parasympathetic state is associated with replenishment and rest. Since we are not separate from our bodies, we have the capacity to participate in this movement toward replenishment.
Take your pulse, either at your wrist or on your neck. We tend to check our pulse during moments of high intensity or when we want to gather data. Instead, take your pulse simply for the sake of taking your pulse.
Find a steady rhythm. If you cannot immediately feel your pulse, wait. Once you find it, bring your awareness to the area of your heart and begin counting to 100.
When you reach 100, shift your attention by placing your right or left palm over your heart. Wait until you find a steady rhythm again. Then count to 100 once more.
When you finish, shake out your hands.
What is happening here?
The heartbeat draws awareness inward. Your attention turns toward the body, toward an internal place where there is no immediate threat.
A cadence creates steadiness. Following a consistent rhythm gives the mind and body something simple and predictable to attend to.
Awareness of the heartbeat can mark a shift out of threat. During a high-intensity event, adrenaline drives the body, which is why we become acutely aware of our heartbeat when we feel threatened. Once the threat has passed, ideally the heart begins to steady. Bringing awareness to that steadiness can help shift us out of the trance of threat-oriented thinking and back into a present moment that is not organized around danger.
You can’t market stillness.
Stillness isn't something we purchase, consume, or achieve. It is something we can learn to recognize—and, with practice, return to.
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