Finding Peace in a Divisive World
Everything I read points toward the immense power of positivity. Gratitude practices, focusing on the present, and expressions of joy lead to a healthier and more satisfying life.
Over the last year, I have been pondering how to live in a space of positivity despite the ills of the world. When we listen to the news, we hear about wars and attacks that break our hearts. Our political system is divisive. Within our communities, there is fear of rogue gunmen, robberies, and traffic accidents.
It's easy to get caught up in the unrest and react to it. We expend our focus and energy on protecting ourselves, judging others, choosing sides, feeling broken hearted, and losing trust in humanity.
This may be natural and normal. And yet, the healthiest, happiest people are not consumed by these thoughts. They are not affected by the turmoil.
I ask myself:
How do I disengage from fear and frustration that is real?
How do I remain engaged with the world while being joyful?
This month, I had an 'aha' moment. It's rather simplistic, and yet energy altering.
I have been taking online classes with Qigong Master Robert Peng, and he consistently recommends a meditation of "Nourishing the Qi". In this visualization, you are a sponge, floating in an ocean of Qi, soaking in Life Force energy. As you absorb Earth Qi and Heaven Qi, it mixes with your personal Qi, unifying you with the whole. You are not alone. The Universe is part of your journey, offering fuel and inspiration. It is always present and available to you.
At this link, Robert Peng explains the power of Nourishing Qi. https://vimeo.com/93272812
I have come to realize that THIS IS THE SOLUTION! This shift in perspective allows us to engage with a chaotic world without being depleted.
In order to find peace in a divisive world, we must redirect our worldview from the physical world. We tend to focus on survival, expecting the external world to nourish or deplete us. But we can also focus on the spiritual world for our support. We can look to the energy of the Universe and unlock its Infinite Potential. There is so much out there that is bigger than ourselves.
Finding our balance is easier when we know that the Universe has got us! We can focus on our breath: inhaling nourishment, support, love, and being held; exhaling whatever does not serve. This month's featured meditation includes the visualization of Nourishing Qi.
The breath and this perspective, shifts everything. Whether or not people are hostile, you are still held and supported by the Universe. Whether or not there is chaos and madness, you are still nourished. No matter what happens in life, the Universe has got you. We can trust in our own well-being, regardless of the energy surrounding us.
In Chinese medicine, the Earth creates Metal. Feeling supported, held, grounded, abundant, and clear (Earth) creates a sense of trust and faith in the world (Metal). It is the foundation from which we can develop our boundaries and our connection to the divine.
When you are faced with the negativity in the world, simply focus on being nourished by the Qi of the Universe. Focus on Your energy, Your vibration, and how it interacts with the divine.
Tips:
Lay on the ground and rest comfortably
Focus on your breath, easefully receiving and letting go
Visualize yourself as a sponge, soaking in the nourishment and inspiration of the Universe into every pore of your body
Feel the support of the Universe
Smell the flowers that are across the world
Listen to the sounds from far away
Focus on what is bigger than man and ever-present
May you find ease, peace, and calm in connecting with Universal Qi.
