Every Moment is a Spiritual Practice
“Spiritual practice is not just sitting and meditating. Practice is looking, thinking, touching, drinking, eating, and talking. Every act, every breath, and every step can be practice, and can help us to become more ourselves.” -Thich Nhat Hanh
Have you thought about the meaning behind your every action? Our lives are meditation in motion.
Many believe they are meditating when they sit still for a few moments and relieve their minds of their daily lists and responsibilities. But is this truly meditation? Meditation is a process of deep self-discovery. If done properly, meditation should carry us through every aspect of every day. What amazing things we can learn about ourselves if every waking moment is spent in intuitive reflection!
Long ago, a master never trained his students by talking to them. He would simply instruct them to meditate and have faith. His purpose was to help the students make their minds peaceful. When that happens, it’s possible to discover many truths. It’s also possible to see beyond the present moment to see the picture behind the picture. That’s when real change becomes possible. Unfortunately, not everyone can benefit from this method. Meditation demands quality practice, free from the kinds of distractions we have today. If you don’t put enough quality time into a meditation practice, it’s impossible to make a quantum leap. This is a spiritual law; both quality and quantity are necessary to create profound change.
Once we carve out ample time for quality meditative practice, we can begin to translate its messages to other aspects of our lives. Put meditative intention into every motion. When you walk, step gently, knowing that your presence has an impact on all around you. When you talk or eat or drink, do so with feeling and intention. Be present in your life. Recognize that your thoughts, emotions, wishes and desires are all an important part of the person you are becoming.