
Spend Some Time with Yourself: Embrace Solitude for Growth and Clarity
It might be uncomfortable to spend time in contemplation. While these past few months of solitude and self-isolation have provided a plethora of opportunities for me to finally take the time to look within, I must admit that I’ve frequently found myself searching for anything other than sitting on my meditation seat. When scrubbing the toilet bowl is more tempting than spending time in seiza, you know you’re in danger!
Looking inward is challenging, and emotions emerge, leading to avoidance. We aren’t always taught how to handle this aspect of meditation. So, what do you do when your meditation practise becomes restless? I’ve noticed that spending time outside, walking my dog in neighbourhood parks or meandering through state woods and game lands, brings me great joy. Being Nature’s silent watcher has taught me a lot.
On a recent morning walk, I came across a lovely river birch. While I’ve always admired these trees from afar, this one in particular drew me in. If you’re unfamiliar with this species, it has the most amazing cinnamon-colored bark that twists and peels when it reaches maturity. I couldn’t help but think of the Reiki analogy of peeling away the layers of stuff we’ve carried for a lifetime to unveil our intrinsic radiant light. The things that keep inner tranquillity at a safe distance. Anger, anxiety, concern, insecurity, agony, trama, hurt… the list goes on and on.
Nature is a wonderful teacher. The river birch’s bark never stops peeling away; it’s a continual process that lasts the tree’s entire life. It develops, peels, and reveals new layers, and another layer may grow over an uncovered one. Some parts are totally visible, while others are still hidden. It’s a gently revealing process, and there’s no need to rush; it takes time.
The main takeaway is that we must find a way to investigate our “things.” Don’t get me wrong: I spend a lot of time on my meditation seat, but we may also observe and be present in other ways. It’s all about what feels natural and correct to you.
Leave A Comment