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Inspiration
Today's Meditation - Relaxation
December 12, 2011 | 
Author Today’s Meditation – Relaxation
Today’s quotation:
The road to happiness lies in two simple principles: find
what interests you and that you can do well, and put your whole soul into it—every bit of energy and ambition and natural ability you have.
John D. Rockefeller III
Meditation and Relaxation
In today’s world people are just go go go and often do not take to breathe, de-stress, and relax! This is even worse through the holiday season!
So today I am focusing on meditations on relaxation as well as relaxation techniques as everyone deserves a break each day even if it is only for a couple of minutes!
If you’re thinking meditation means twisting your body into an uncomfortable position and uttering “oohs” and “omms” for an hour, guess again.
Any repetitive action can be a source of meditation, says Herbert Benson, MD, author of The Relaxation Response and director emeritus of Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine in Chestnut Hill, Mass.
This includes walking, swimming, painting, knitting — any activity that helps keep your attention calmly in the present moment.
When you catch yourself thinking about your job, your relationship or your lifelong to-do list, experts say to simply let the thought escape, and bring your mind back the repetition of the activity. Try it for just 5 to 10 minutes a day and watch stress levels drop.
There are many meditation, breathing and relaxation techniques that you can learn to use to promote relaxation and relieve stress. The deeper and slower that you breathe the more relaxed and sedated you will become. This is the basis of Meditations!
Sleeping with the window open will help the air to circulate in your bedroom and fill your lungs with fresh air. Relaxation techniques will help your body to wind down and prepare for the sleep cycle.
Try this meditation technique when you first get into bed:
1.Take a deep breath.
2.Breathe in through your nose and visualize the air moving down to your stomach.
3.As you breathe in again silently count to four.
4.Purse your lips as you exhale slowly.
5.This time count silently to eight.
6.Repeat this process six to ten times.
The results of this breathing technique are immediate. You will feel your shoulders and arms relaxing. Your chest will feel less constricted and you will feel less stress and tension.
Practice this breathing technique on a daily basis so that it becomes a natural routine for you and helps to induce natural sleep.
As well as using breathing techniques to encourage natural sleep you can try several relaxation exercises. The goal is to relax your mind and let your body unwind and surrender to sleep.
Try the following relaxation exercise/meditation before you get into bed:
1.Lay on your back on the floor with your feet slightly apart, your hands by your sides, and your palms turned upward.
2.Close your eyes and concentrate on every part of your body.
3.Begin at the top of your head and work your way down to your toes.
4.Start by feeling your forehead tense, then your eyes, face, and jaw.
5.Tense and release each muscle group, such as your shoulders and neck.
6.Give attention to each area of your body from the top of your head, down through the trunk of your body, down along your legs, and ending at the tip of your toes.
7.Stay in this relaxed condition for a few minutes. Concentrate on your breathing and let all worry and stress dissipate from your mind and body. Make sure that your breathing comes from deep in your stomach and flows slowly and evenly.
8.Stretch slowly before standing.
The above exercise will tell your body and mind that it is okay to settle down, leaving behind thoughts of worry, fear, and stress.
There are many more techniques and exercises available to promote deep breathing and relaxation. You will have to find what method works best for you.
Your goal is to recognize that deep breathing and concentrated relaxation are tools available for you to achieve natural sleep as well are the tools of MOST meditations.
Is your mind too talkative to meditate?
Try creating a peaceful visualization, or “dreamscape.” To start, simply visualize anything that keeps your thoughts away from current tensions. It could be a favorite vacation spot, a fantasy island, that penthouse in New York City — or something “touchable,” like the feel of your favorite silk robe or cozy sweater.
The idea is to take your mind off your stress, and replace it with an image that evokes a sense of calm. The more realistic your daydream — in terms of colors, sights, sounds; even touch and feel — the more relaxation you’ll experience. And with deep relaxation comes meditations like the one I have below!!
Meditation to Relax
This meditation is to allow the mind to relax
To relax the mind
We need to let go of stresses
That is causing friction within
As we begin to relax the mind
Try to visualize
That you are sitting on the banks of a stream
And I am a peaceful observer
And the stream is flowing with the thoughts in my mind
Some positive some negative
Some necessary some unnecessary
But I relax
And just watch the thoughts flow by
Like a stream
I watch these thoughts
And I realize that I am separate from them
And I am relaxed knowing that
I just let them flow by
And do not get attached to the thoughts
Sitting on the bank of the river
Like an observer
I can experience a deep relaxation
For I do not need to worry
About each and every thought in my mind
I let the negative thoughts pass
And enjoy the positive ones
And I am the observer of my mind
And as I am the observer
I choose to relax with positive feelings
And the more these relaxed feelings in my heart
I notice the gradual change of thoughts
The change from the polluted negative stream
To a clear flowing stream of positive thoughts
Thoughts such as that I am relaxed and peaceful
No matter what thoughts are in my mind
Or in the mind of the others
For I am a relaxed peaceful observer
Calm concentrated detached
Today’s Affirmations:
The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it. ~Attributed to both Jim Goodwin and Sydney J. Harris
Sometimes it’s important to work for that pot of gold. But other times it’s essential to take time off and to make sure that your most important decision in the day simply consists of choosing which color to slide down on the rainbow. ~Douglas Pagels, These Are the Gifts I’d Like to Give to You
The mark of a successful man is one that has spent an entire day on the bank of a river without feeling guilty about it. ~Author Unknown
I give myself permission to relax
I am at peace
I am meditation
I trust in the process of life
I release the stress of the day
I am relaxation
Today’s Inspirational Pictures (Relaxation)
Today’s Decorations – Meditation and Relaxation
Watch our BLOG for Meditation, Inspiration and Decoration!!
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Meditation Supplies
Wayfair Holiday Gift Finder! Find the perfect gift for everyone this holiday season.
Since we are putting up meditations weekly (Soon to be every other day) We thought we should do a post on Meditation Supplies! This first post will be of gongs, art, timers etc. We will have another post up today for cushions, tables, chairs etc. For some this helps them enjoy the meditations when they are comfortable or surrounded by “spiritual” things!
Design Toscano Meditation Grotto of Sorrento Garden Statue in Stone
List Price: $261.25 Price: $188.99 & Free Shipping
This timeless, European-style grotto creates an instant, “destination spot” for meditation. At 10″ deep and nearly a yard tall , our substantial Toscano exclusive is cast in 42 lbs. of quality designer resin with a textured faux stone finish, promising to showcase any sculpture’s true beauty. Sculptures sold separately. Accommodates sculptures up to two feet tall.
One Review Said “This piece was well represented in its description and accompanying picture. It is high quality, well priced and maintains the true essence for an outside grotto. The Tuscan style grotto connotes both beauty and a spiritual splendore and reverence”
Features:
Garden statue
Stone finish
Quality designer resin construction
Design Toscano exclusive
Windsor Vanguard Meditation I by Unknown
List Price: $74.99 Price: $59.90 & Free Shipping!
Special Features
Style: Abstract
Primary Color: Yellow
Secondary Color: Orange
Part of 2-piece coordinating art set
Windsor Vanguard Meditation II by Unknown
List Price: $74.99 Price: $59.49 & Free Shipping
List Price: $202.19 Price: $151.64 & Free Shipping
Features:
Desk gong
Bronze gong with a traditional chou gong bullseye design
Accented with a contemporary black ash wood stand
Table top gong makes a wonderful display in any home or office
1 year warranty
Dimensions: 12″ H x 10″ W x 12″ D
Woodstock Chimes Psalm 23 Meditation Wind Chime
List Price: $254.65 Price: $190.99 & Free Shipping
Features:
Wind chime
Classic chime comes with Psalm 23 laser-engraved on the windcather
Oriental Furniture Meditation Folding Room Divider in Honey
List Price: $231.40 Price: $178.00 & Free Shipping
This intriguing new screen is very versatile. The Meditation Folding Room Divider comes on wheels for easy mobility. The two panels are varying widths to ensure proper folding of the screen. This is a great choice for those who need a room divider that they can bring from room to room or from one location to another within a room without the struggle of having to lift and carry it.
Features:
Crafted from durable, lightweight Scandinavian Spruce, using Asian style mortise & tenon joinery
Shade is strong; fiber reinforced pressed pulp rice paper
Allows diffused light, yet provides complete privacy
Panels fold for easy portability and storage
Screen assembly requires only five wheels
Check out the other 3 finishes we have available for this design: Black, Natural, and Rosewood
Dimensions:
Left panel measures 20.25″ W, right panel measures 22.75″ W
Panels are 61″ H on wheels
Please note when ordering multiple room dividers, finishes may vary
Kenroy Home Meditation Indoor Tabletop Fountain in Natural Slate and Copper
List Price: $300.00 Price: $180.00 & Free Shipping!
Features:
Tabletop fountain
Meditation Collection
Natural slate and copper finish
On/off line switch
Indoor rated only
Stones included
4″ H candle
Novica Meditating Warrior Mask
List Price: $87.09 Price: $66.99 & Free Shipping
The Salomon Ruiz Goin Artisan Collection is brought to you by Novica in Association with National Geograhic. This beautiful piece was handcrafted by Salomon Ruiz Goin in Peru. An artisan story card will be included with your purchase. Pausing in reflection before heading into battle, the “Meditating Warrior” displays a lavish mixture of color and design. Closing his eyes in solemn contemplation, he savors a stolen moment of peace in the midst of war. A vibrant Moche piece for the eclectic décor. Salomon Ruiz is a self-taught artist who has developed an innovative style influenced by the ancient Vicus, Moche, and Nazca cultures. Ruiz fashions his ceramic pieces by hand and fires them at high temperatures. Finally, he painstakingly paints each one in vivid colors and applies clear enamel, which enhances and protects the finish. ; About the Artist: Salomon Ruiz Goin; “I am a self-taught artist, dedicating myself to ceramics and craftmaking since my youth. I specialize in masks influenced by the Vicus, Moche, and Nazca cultures. I focus largely on the mix of form and color; despite a lack of formal training I have created a unique, personal style. I try to always remember my roots, while also learning from my readings and travels. Everyday I hope to improve myself, and achieve a style that is both gratifying for me and for those who are interested in my work. Now that I know my art will reach many people, I dedicate all my efforts and emotion into creating pieces that will resonate in your hearts and minds. Thank you. Ruiz uses a unique process in which he first shapes the piece by hand from clay. After firing it at a temperature of 1832°F, he applies bright enamels and gilt. The finished piece is then bathed in a coat of clear enamel, which protects and enhances the vivid and expressive use of color.
Features:
Mask
Ceramic construction
Lavish mixture of color and design
Closing eyes in solemn contemplation
Painstakingly paints each one in vivid colors and applies clear enamel
Hand crafted artisan quality
Watch our BLOG for more Meditation products coming soon!!
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Today's Meditation
Todays Meditation – Giving and Receiving
Today’s Quotation
Character is the product of daily, hourly actions, words and
thoughts: daily forgiveness, unselfishness, kindnesses,
sympathies, charities, sacrifices for the good of others,
struggles against temptation, submissiveness under trial.
It is these, like the blinding colors in a picture, or
the blending notes of music, which constitute the person.
Today’s Meditation
Today’s meditation is a bit longer than I have posted in the past few weeks! But it is of great importance as we head into the holiday season! Giving and Taking, Giving and Receiving Ying and Yang!! A balance must be attained to fully understand how powerful these actions are, and how they are intertwined.
I will go more in-depth with Giving and Taking in a future meditation. So enjoy the meditation and I hope it helps YOU find the perfect balance!!
Namaste
TONGLEN Meditation – TAKING AND GIVING
“Without attuning body, speech and mind unto the Doctrine,
What gain is it to celebrate religious rites?
If anger be unconquered by its antidote,
What gain is it to celebrate religious rites?
Unless one meditate on loving others more than self,
What gain is it merely from the lips to say: ‘O, Pity (sentient beings)”
Milarepa (From Evan Wentz ‘Tibet’s Great Yogi Milarepa’)
INTRODUCTION
This meditation technique can be extremely powerful when practised correctly. To me, it represents the full idea of a Bodhisattva; a being who wishes to help all sentient beings, without concern for his/her own interests. It is advised to read the pages on Meditation Theory (chapter on Vipashyana) and Meditation Practice if you are not used to (analytical) meditation..
In case you find this meditation very difficult to do, it may well be a very positive sign! It is definitely extremely difficult to let go of our selfish attitude and deciding to give all one’s own happiness and positive karma to others and take upon oneself the suffering of all sentient beings.
If you do this meditation seriously, it cannot be easy – unless you are an extremely advanced practitioner. If you realize that doing this practice is too difficult when trying to focus on all sentient beings, it may be helpful to start at an easier level; instead of being surrounded by all other sentient beings, you can imagine sitting opposite yourself of a future lifetime and practice giving and taking.
If that works well, try to imagine your mother, father or a good friend with whom you practice. Next, one can try to think of ones entire family, friends or neighborhood, and so gradually expand it to include everyone, even animals and life forms we cannot even see.
This meditation works in many ways, to name but a few:
- reducing selfish attachment
- increasing a sense of renunciation
- creating positive karma by giving and helping
- developing loving-kindness and bodhicitta
- it refers to all of the 6 Perfections: giving, ethics, patience, joyous effort, concentration and wisdom.
Set yourself a time, like 15 or 30 minutes for the session, put a clock in front of yourself.
Take a couple of deep breaths to relax, check if your body is relaxed and reasonably comfortable.
Set the motivation: for example recite the refuge prayer:
I go for refuge to the Buddha,
I go for refuge to the Dharma,
I go for refuge to the Sangha. (3x)
Setting the mind towards enlightenment:
By virtue of giving and so forth,
may I become a Buddha for the benefit of all sentient beings. (3x)
The four immeasurables:
May all sentient beings have equanimity, free from attachment, aggression and prejudice.
May they be happy, and have the causes for happiness.
May they be free from suffering and causes for suffering.
May they never be separated from the happiness that is free from suffering. (3x)
The seven limbed prayer:
Respectfully I prostrate with body, speech and mind;
I present clouds of every type of offerings, actual and imagined;
I declare all the negative actions I have done since beginning of time,
and rejoice in the merit of all Aryas and ordinary beings.
Please teacher, remain until cyclic existence ends
and turn the wheel of Dharma for all sentient beings.
I dedicate the virtues of myself and others to the great Enlightenment.
Short breathing meditation (maybe 5 minutes or so):
Concentrate on the tip of your nose, and feel the breath going in and out.
To help your concentration, you can count every out-breath as one, and count from 1 to 10. When you arrived at 10, simply start at 1 again. All the attention is with the feeling of the nose and the counting, nothing more, nothing less.
Regularly check yourself if you are still concentrated, do not get angry when distracted, simply return to counting from 1.
Just before the end of the session, release the concentration on the counting and the tip of your nose, and simply be aware of how you feel.
Giving and taking; try to imagine the following:
- Visualize all sentient beings around you: enemies in front, friends behind you all sentient beings are in the form of human beings.
- First visualize that all their sufferings take the form of black clouds of smoke that surrounds them, and inhale this smoke.
- Direct the smoke to your heart where you visualize a black spot, representing your own egoistic self-cherishing mind.
- The destructive force of all the black smoke of suffering goes to this self-cherishing mind, completely destroying it
Take some time to do this.
- Now imagine exhaling bright white nectar and light towards all beings. This white nectar is your own potential for happiness which you give away.
Take some time for this part. When you are used to both practices, you may try the following:
- If possible combine both above practices of inhaling black smoke and exhaling light and nectar with every in- and out-breath. If this takes too much effort, simply return to either giving or taking.
Near the end of the session, let go of the thoughts of giving and taking, and take some time to sense how you feel now.
Next, try to make some sort of brief positive conclusion, like: “this meditation is too difficult, so I need to practice more”, “this was really great, I should do this more often” or “I must work harder to control my selfish mind”, something like that – but it must be your own conclusion.
Then try to concentrate very strongly on this conclusion, but without discussing it in your thoughts: just try to hold on to the feeling that the conclusion gives you and try to focus intensely on it for just one or two minutes.
Dedicate the positive energy of the session to whichever goal you like, use for example:
May all sentient beings have equanimity, free from attachment, aggression and prejudice.
May they be happy, and have the causes for happiness.
May they be free from suffering and causes for suffering.
May they never be separated from the happiness that is free from suffering. (3x)
and below prayers:
By this virtue may I soon
reach a Guru-Buddha-state,
and lead each and every being
to that state of Buddhahood.
May the precious Bodhicitta
not yet born, arise and grow
may that born have no decline
but increase forever more.
And any specific wishes that you may have.
ViewonBuddhism.org is who gets FULL CREDIT for this wonderful meditation!!
Today’s Inspirational Pictures
I a world of darkness, be the light. Be the hope for those who don’t have any. Give your strength to the weak. Light the way for those who are lost. Dare to be different, dare to love&to live. And always remember that life is fragile and should be handled with prayer.- Abigail Jourdain Miller
Today’s Decorations – Indoor Water Features
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Todays Meditation | Thanksgiving
Today is a special Day for our American readers, friends and family, its a day to give thanks, to celebrate family and tradition! Our meditation and affirmations today are focused on giving Thanks! Thanksgiving is more than the start of the holiday season! It is a time to reflect on all the GOOD that you have, to take time from your busy life to meet with friends and family and to be THANKFUL FOR your friends and family!! Thanksgiving is also about GIVING!! Remember not everyone has family to meet with or food to feast on. Donate some time to a soup kitchen this holiday season, drop off food at the food bank for the hungry, take blankets to shelters or just donate some money to the Salvation Army while you are out shopping. GIVING is just as important as the THANKS in Thanksgiving!!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM BIZZEEBUZZ!!
“Our Cup Runneth Over”
A Thanksgiving Meditation
Text: Psalm 23
Note: For this meditation you will need a large bowl into which you can set a cup (I will use the
Communion Cup as I think it’s a fit symbol of all the good things God gives for which we should
be thankful). During the sermon, I will visibly show the act of a cup overflowing as I share some
of the blessings that God has poured into my life so that my cup runneth over. But I will also
take time in the midst of the sermon to allow each person who desires to also share. After they
do, I will pour more water into the overflowing cup and have everyone say each time, “Our Cup
Runneth Over.”
“Our Cup Runneth Over”
Not long ago I was eating with Debbie in a popular restaurant in Harrisonburg, Virginia, called,
“The Golden Corral.” I had not eaten there in a long time. It has changed a lot – for the better.
There was a line out the door already and it wasn’t even noon. When we finally did get inside
and were seated, the waitress brought us some plates as they served food buffet style. I must say,
I have never seen a larger buffet. There were at least four or five different sections. I had a
terrible time just deciding what I wanted!
Over to the left was all the bread – bread of every kind.
Next to it were the veggies – every veggie you have heard of and some you haven’t.
In the middle were the meats – from fish to roast beef, chicken, you name it.
Beside it were the soups and salads – calm chowder, vegetable, potato, and several others. The
salad bar had everything on it you could possible want.
Then came the dessert section…I can’t even describe all they had there…
Boy, am I getting hungry!
We got our food and went back to the table. I noticed that the line had gotten longer and wasn’t
surprised. That line grew the whole time we were in there.
Then we bowed our heads to say the blessing…
And something happened in my heart…
I’m not sure I can describe it…
That blessing became a lot more than just a mealtime ritual that day. From somewhere in the
depths of my heart I felt this tremendous surge of gratitude, of thanksgiving…It so overwhelmed
me that I felt tears coming into my eyes…
For, you see, the thought came to me that all this food, in such abundance and variety, came from
the good earth God has given to us all. I watched as the line of people got longer, but there was
always more than enough food for all who came…
And the thought came to me that this was but one group of people in one tiny restaurant. There
are thousands of other restaurants also serving food, and what of the millions of homes were day
after day families sit and eat…
I became aware that day as I never have before of just how blessed I was, we all are especially in
this country.
I became aware as if for the first time of what a tremendous gift this land, this planet is for to
us…what physical needs do we have that God does not meet through the resources of this
wondrous planet Earth?
Where did the clothes you are wearing come from?
God’s good earth!
Where did the shelter that covers you and your family, that covers us right now as we worship
come from?
God’s good earth!
Where does the delicious food we will enjoy today and especially on Thanksgiving Day come
from?
God’s good earth!
Where do we get all the resources to make all the many things to help make life easier and better
come from?
God’s good earth!
Where does the air come from that you are breathing right now?
God’s good earth!
And as I thought on all these things that day in that restaurant, the waitress came and filled my
glass of tea, apologizing because she put so much in it that it overflowed. And that’s exactly what
I have felt ever since then – that my cup runneth over with the tremendous blessings of God!
(Pour water into the cup until it overflows)
Surely this is how the Psalmist felt. God had so blessed him, had poured blessing after blessing
into his life that there was not room to contain them all! He sings, “My cup runneth over…”
(Pour more water into the cup)
What of you, my friends? How has God blessed you this past year so that your cup runneth over?
Would any of you like to share, to give thanks right now? Please sit or stand and do so, after you
do, I will pour more into this cup, and ask you to join with me in saying,
OUR CUP RUNNETH OVER…
When everyone has had the chance to share, then I will share the following to conclude this:
Drinking from my saucer
(By Jimmy Dean, I think)
I’ve never made a fortune
and it’s probably too late now.
But I don’t worry about that much,
I’m happy anyhow.
And as I go along life’s way,
I’m reaping better than I sowed.
I’m drinking from my saucer,
‘Cause my cup has overflowed
Haven’t got a lot of riches,
and sometimes the going’s tough.
But I’ve got loving ones around me,
and that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for his blessings,
and the mercies He’s bestowed
I’m drinking from my saucer,
’cause my cup has overflowed.
O, Remember times when things went wrong,
My faith wore somewhat thin
But all at once the dark clouds broke,
and the sun peeped through again
So Lord, help me not to gripe
about the tough rows that I’ve hoed.
I’m drinking from my saucer,
‘Cause my cup has overflowed.
If God gives me strength and courage,
When the way grows steep and rough.
I’ll not ask for other blessings,
I’m already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy,
to help others bear their loads.
Then I’ll keep drinking from my saucer,
‘Cause my cup has overflowed.
Because our cup runneth over and we can drink from the saucer, we should remember those
whose cups are empty and have been for a long time. They are not far from us. They may live in
your own community or even be in your own church (maybe your own family). There are
certainly many out there all over the world who have so little. We have so much. Let us find
ways to share the abundance of our blessings with them. That is perhaps one of the best ways we
show our gratitude, for surely our cup runneth over!
I give thanks to the anonymous poster of this meditation!!
Thanksgiving Affirmation
I am blessed with a loving family and caring friends. My belly is filled with abundant foods and drink. Feeling grateful and expressing gratitude is an important part of my life. Goodness is plentiful.
Thanksgiving Quotes
For flowers that bloom about our feet;
For tender grass, so fresh, so sweet;
For song of bird, and hum of bee;
For all things fair we hear or see,
Father in heaven, we thank Thee!
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Grace isn’t a little prayer you chant before receiving a meal. It’s a way to live. ~Attributed to Jacqueline Winspear
Give thanks for unknown blessings already on their way. ~Native American Saying
On Thanksgiving Day we acknowledge our dependence. ~William Jennings Bryan
Today’s Thanksgiving Decoration
Thanks to Wayfair for the Thanksgiving decoration idea’s!!
Watch our BLOG for more meditations coming soon!!
Again, Happy Thanksgiving!!
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Todays Meditation - Prosperity
Today’s quotation: ProsperityOur attitude tells the world what we expect in return. If it’s a cheerful, expectant attitude, it says to everyone with whom we come in contact that we expect the best in our dealings with the world. You see, we tend to live up to our expectations. And others give to us, as far as their attitudes are concerned, what we expect. Our attitude is something we can control. We can establish our attitude each morning when we start our day–in fact, we do just that, whether or not we realize it. And the people in our family–all the people in our world–will reflect back to us the attitude we present to them. It is, then, our attitude toward life that determines life’s attitude toward us. Cause and effect. Everything we say or do will cause a corresponding effect. If we’re cheerful, glad to be experiencing this miracle of life, others will reflect that good cheer back to us. We are the kind of people others enjoy being around.
Today’s Meditation - Meditation for Prosperity
Make yourself comfortable
Take 3 big deep breaths & sigh heavily
In your minds eye you see a meadow, covered in soft, green grass. Dotted through the soft, lush, green grass are flowers of all colours. See your self walking through the meadow. Feel your feet embraced in the coolness of the grass. Feel how soft and delicate it is on your feet. The sky is clear and blue and rays from the sun gently caress your body, filling it with warm waves of energy, allowing you to be totally relaxed. Breathing gently and easily now, you see tall majestic trees reaching to the warmth and light of the sun. The leaves and branches sway to and fro in the gentle breeze.
Approaching the trees, you come to a crystal clear, babbling brook. Walking alongside the brook, you hear birds chirping, flitting from tree to tree. The sun’s rays shine through the branches of the trees, directing and guiding you to move further downstream. Before you is waterfall. Water is cascading and caressing the smooth rocks surrounding the falls. A fine, delicate mist rises as the water falls to the brook below. Moving closer, you see a pathway under the waterfall. The water is purifying, cleansing and refreshing. Move along the path under the water.
Feel it pour gently over your body from the top of your head, through your body and out through your feet. This crystal clear, warm water cleanses away all old beliefs, all fears, all resentments, all apprehensions, and especially washes away all feelings of lack. Feel these being washed away completely. Stay in this space awhile. Feeling or perhaps seeing what is being washed away. See it all dissolved. You are very comfortable with this. Don’t be concerned if you don’t see anything now, it will come.
Affirm for Prosperity
I release all ideas and beliefs of lack in my life.
I now open myself to receive my divine abundance.
I choose and accept an abundance of prosperity into my life now.
I am prosperous in good health. I am prosperous in love.
I am prosperous in wealth. I am worthy to receive these everyday……
Thanks to www.freemeditations.com For today’s meditation!
Today’s Prosperity Affirmations
“My income is constantly increasing”
“Abundance is mine”
“I deserve all good in my life and that includes prosperity”
“I am a money magnet, and prosperity of all kinds is drawn to me”
“I know that life is abundant and I accept abundance in my life now”
“My good comes from everywhere and everyone”
“Money flows to me from expected and unexpected sources”
“New opportunities to increase my income open up for me now”
Todays Inspirational Picture
Today’s Decoration – Prosperity
Wood mask, ‘Sacrosanct Ganesh’
Ganesha appears infused in Balinese artistry – his inspired image immortalized in albesia wood by Wayan Gandung. The Hindu deity’s wise and noble face is accompanied by a feast of colorful patterns, which Gandung elegantly paints with acrylics.
Ganesha, according to Hindu beliefs, bears the head of an elephant and the body of a man. He is an icon of generosity and wisdom, believed to dispel the occult forces that bring disaster upon humankind.
Wood statuette, ‘Ganesha Tunjung’
Lord Ganesha poses on a tunjung (lotus flower), his delicate, joyous features precisely captured by Nyoman Subrata. Using suar wood, the artisan evokes the renowned figure’s power and benevolence; his clothing and posture suggest a sense of nobility while his face bespeaks kindness and generosity. In the Hindu culture, it is believed that Ganesha possesses the ability to keep under control the occult forces that bring disaster upon humankind.
This item is individually carved by hand and belongs to a special collection created by the artist.
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Todays Meditation - Self Love
Today’s Inspiration, Meditation and Decoration – Self Love
Today’s quotation:
Our attitude tells the world what we expect in return. If it’s a cheerful, expectant attitude, it says to everyone with whom we come in contact that we expect the best in our dealings with the world. You see, we tend to live up to our expectations. And others give to us, as far as their attitudes are concerned, what we expect. Our attitude is something we can control.
We can establish our attitude each morning when we start our day–in fact, we do just that, whether or not we realize it. And the people in our family–all the people in our world–will reflect back to us the attitude we present to them.
It is, then, our attitude toward life that determines life’s attitude toward us. Cause and effect. Everything we say or do will cause a corresponding effect. If we’re cheerful, glad to be experiencing this miracle of life, others will reflect that good cheer back to us. We are the kind of people others enjoy being around.
Today’s Meditation
One of the biggest lessons on the spiritual journey is learning to love unconditionally. However, what is often overlooked, is the importance of loving yourself along with everything else. After all, aren’t you a part of the whole of Life? Here is a wonderful old haiku which illustrates this… “On my horse, clip-clopping through the field. Aha! I’m part of the picture!” As you grow to realize that you are an integral part of Life’s grand picture, it becomes clear that loving yourself along with everything else is part of the mission.
Some of you may feel uncomfortable with the idea of self love, because it’s often interpreted as being overly self involved. Many religions teach that total selflessness is the ideal, and that self love is the antithesis of being selfless. I’m not at all knocking selflessness, but is self love really opposed to selflessness? And is it the same as being too self involved? What actually is self love?
Self love is largely a matter of unconditional self acceptance, with a bit of appreciation and compassion for oneself thrown in. Can you accept yourself unconditionally… that is, without having to fulfill certain conditions, or live up to some particular standard? If not, what do you have to do or be, to fully accept yourself? Do you have to be successful? Do you have to look a certain way? Do you have to be giving all the time? Do you have to be constantly productive? The list of conditions we may attach to self acceptance goes on and on.
Here are some exercises you can do for developing greater self love.
1. Deepening your awareness. That means doing a bit of honest soul-searching… asking yourself, “Is there a shortage of self love in my life? And if so, why?… what are the underlying dynamics?” There are a number of ways to shine a light into the unconscious caverns of your mind… quiet reflection, talking it out with a trusted friend or therapist, or writing in a journal are all good approaches. What works best for you?
2. Convincing your conscious and subconscious mind that the Universal Spirit is unconditionally loving. A willingness to re-examine and toss out old beliefs, and to accept this new belief, is usually sufficient for your conscious mind. However, your subconscious mind – which stores information much like a computer – may need a bit of “re-programming.” The daily repetition of a positive affirmation – such as “Spirit is unconditionally loving” – is one of the most commonly used methods for this. Affirmations can be written, spoken aloud, or repeated mentally. Self hypnosis is also a widely used method for re-programming the subconscious mind.
3. Making a list of all your positive qualities. Even though you are cultivating “unconditional” self acceptance, this helps create a shift toward thinking of yourself in a more positive light.
4. Meditating on self love. Here is a simple meditation for learning to accept and appreciate yourself just as you are.
Buddha This meditation is done from the perspective of your “Spiritual Self.” Your Spiritual Self is the quiet, knowing, non-judging observer within you. All the rest of you… your body, mind, emotions, personal traits, etc., we will refer to as your “personality.” Just for this exercise, think of your personality as a separate person.
• Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
• Now begin to observe your personality… notice your thoughts, your emotions, how your body feels, etc..
• Take some time to get acquainted with your personality. Objectively think about its various characteristics.
• Next, imagine that your personality is your child, and that you are its parent.
• See this child as a perfect creation of Spirit… still growing into its highest potential, but perfect at whatever stage it’s now at.
• Accept your child as it is… accept it completely, just as it is.
• Look at your child with appreciation and compassion. Look fondly and compassionately at your child, with all of its strengths and positive traits, as well as it’s various weaknesses and follies.
• Open your heart and embrace this child with complete, unconditional love.
Practicing any or all of the above exercises will help deepen your self love. Although encountering challenges along the way is an integral part the spiritual journey, you will find that healthy self love can be a tremendous aid in smoothing out the rough and rocky stretches of your path.
FULL CREDIT and SPECIAL THANKS!!
Meditation BY Jim Malloy
The World Wide Online Meditation Center
www.meditationcenter.com
mailto:jmalloy@meditationcenter.com
Todays Affirmations
I am filled with light, love and peace.
I treat myself with kindness and respect.
I am ready for a healthy, loving relationship.
I deserve a loving, healthy relationship.
I deserve to be loved and I allow myself to be loved.
Todays Inspirational Picture
Todays Decoration
Todays decoration is from Novica
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Religious-Spiritual Paintings | archAngel
Religious Paintings – Archangels
Archangel Ariel Price $297.95
Angel Ariel makes his valiant presence felt in this painting, but his reputation evokes enigma. His name means “God’s Angel”
Ariel also means (different translations) “lion of God” and is often associated with lions. When Ariel is near you, you may begin seeing references to or visions of lions around you. Ariel is also associated with the wind. Found in books of Judaic mysticism and Cabalistic, Ariel works closely with King Solomon in conducting manifestation, spirit releasment and Divine magic.
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Archangel Zadkiel Price $237.95
The archangel Zadkiel is a benevolent presence with a kind face. Zadkiel means “righteousness of God.”
adkiel is known as the angel of mercy. He helps people approach God for mercy when they’ve done something wrong, encouraging them that God cares and will be merciful to them when they confess and repent of their sins, and motivating them to pray.
Just as Zadkiel encourages people to seek the forgiveness that God offers them, he also encourages people to forgive others who have hurt them, and helps deliver divine power that people can tap into to enable them to choose forgiveness, despite their hurt feelings. Zadkiel helps heal emotional wounds by comforting people and healing their painful memories. He helps repair broken relationships by motivating estranged people to show mercy to each other.
Archangel Raphael Price $279.95
A rosy aura tints the sky, illuminating the landscape where Saint Raphael walks in winged majesty.
“Healing power of God”, “The Divine has healed”, “God heals”
Hebrew word rapha means “doctor” or “healer”. Raphael is a powerful healer and assists with all forms of healing – humans and animals. He helps to rapidly heal body, mind and spirit if called upon, as in the biblical story of Abraham and the pain he felt after being circumcised as an adult. You may call upon Raphael in behalf of someone else, but he can’t interfere with that person’s free will. If they refuse spiritual treatment, it can’t be forced
Archangel Gabriel the Fisherman’ Price $119.95
Saint Gabriel the archangel walks along the banks of a river, carrying his catch. The heavenly messenger represents a pure spirit created by God.
One of the two highest ranking angels. He is the leading angel who stands in the presence of the God/Goddess as a co-ordinator. He is the Archangel of annunciation, humanity, resurrection, heavenly mercy, vengeance, death, revelation, truth, and hope. Bringer of news and heralds the revealing of answers. Maker of changes. He is the Patron Saint of Communications Workers.
The name Gabriel means “Man of God” or “God Has Shown Himself Mightily.”
‘The Archangel Michael’ (2009) Price $1169.95
The solemn figure of the Archangel Michael strikes a pose of triumph, conveying power and grace. Eliciting reverence, the leader of heaven’s forces in their battle against evil is always called upon by the Church, for he is its patron and protector.
Michael means Who is like God”, “Like unto God”, “Who is like the Divine”
The first Angel created by God, Michael is the leader of all the Archangels and is in charge of protection, courage, strength, truth and integrity. Michael protects us physically, emotionally and psychically. He also oversees the lightworker’s life purpose.
His chief function is to rid the earth and its inhabitants of the toxins associated with fear. Michael carries a flaming sword that he uses to cut through etheric cords and protects us from Satan and negative entities. When he’s around you may see sparkles or flashes of bright blue or purple light.
Call on Michael if you find yourself under psychic attack or if you feel you lack commitment, motivation and dedication to your beliefs, courage, direction, energy, vitality, self-esteem, worthiness. Michael helps us to realize our life’s purpose and he’s invaluable to lightworkers helping with protection, space clearing and spirit releasement.
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Today's Meditations
Today’s Quotation
I wish there were a book I could read each day to tell me exactly what to do to live consciously from my heart and soul. But part of the mystery and magic, part of the reason I’m here, is to try to stumble through and hear what the soul has to say about what it needs at each moment–whether it is to work through an emotional block, discover what the next lesson is, meet the next soul mate (my children are soul mates; my best friends are soul mates), or finish my business with the one I’m with now. Ultimately, for most of us, the journey comes down to the same issue: learning to love freely. First ourselves, then other people.
Today’s Meditation
Pink Bubble Meditation Technique
This meditation is simple and wonderfully effective.
Exercise:
Sit or lie down comfortably, close your eyes and breathe deeply, slowly, and naturally. Gradually relax and feel this meditation taking you deeper and deeper.
Imagine something that you would like to manifest. Imagine that is already happened.
Picture it as clearly as possibly in your mind. Now in your mind’s eye surround your fantasy with a pink bubble; put your goal inside the bubble. Pink is the color associated with the heart, and if this color vibrations surrounds whatever you visualize, it bring to you only that which is in perfect affinity with your being.
The third step is to let go of your bubble and imagine it floating off into the universe, still containing your vision. This symbolizes that you are emotionally ‘letting go” of it.
Now it’s free to float around the universe, attracting and gathering energy for its manifestation.
There is nothing more you need to do.
Today’s Affirmations
I open to the flow of great abundance in all areas of my life.
I allow the universe to bless me in surprising and joyful ways.
Today I open my mind to the endless opportunities surrounding me.
I boldly act on great opportunities when I see them.
Today’s Inspirational Picture
Today’s Decorations (from our good friends at Celtic by Design)
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Today's Meditation | Todays
A mature person is one who does not think only in absolutes, who is able
to be objective even when deeply stirred emotionally, who has learned
that there is both good and bad in all people and in all things, and who
walks humbly and deals charitably with the circumstances of life,
knowing that in this world no one is all knowing
and therefore all of us need both love and charity.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Today’s Meditation
This meditation is the first one I ever did! I did not think I could “quiet my mind” enough for meditations of any kind. I proved myself wrong that day!
So this is a great beginner meditation…
Flame Meditation
Method One:
1. Light a candle and stare at the flame for 2 minutes. Make sure your attention does not wander.
2. Close your eyes and place your hands in relaxed cupped position, palms over your eyes and concentrate on the imprint of the flame in the darkness. The image will tend to move across your area of vision. Keep looking for it and bring it back and keep concentrating on it for four mintues.
3. Relax and empty your thoughts and tune into your breathing for a few minutes, concentrating only on each breath
What this exercise does:
This exercise prepares the mind for one-pointed concentration, which is so important to any spiritual workings. With the average person, thoughts are scattered and dissipate into nothing. With the trained mind that can concentrate intensely, the thoughts are single-pointed and focused like a laser and have power.
100% concentration makes the difference in astral workings. One’s will is also developed with this exercise as a powerful will does not give into distraction. Do not become frustrated or impatient with yourself. It is normal for thoughts to creep in to distract you in the beginning. Total concentration takes time and is one of the most difficult aspects of training the mind.
Method Two (intermediate):
1. Focus on the flame for several minutes
2. Close your eyes and place your hands in relaxed cupped position, palms over your eyes and concentrate on the imprint of the flame in the darkness. The image will tend to move across your area of vision.
3. Keeping your eyes closed, try to enter the imprint. You will find the imprint begins to compact and change color. The bright image will change to pink, then to red and grow dark.
4. Repeat the exercise if you wish.
What this exercise does:
This exercise trains the mind and third eye to direct spiritual energy.
Today’s Inspirational Quotes
When the world says, “Give up,”
Hope whispers, “Try it one more time.”
~Author Unknown
The rung of a ladder was never meant to rest upon, but only to hold a man’s foot long enough to enable him to put the other somewhat higher. ~Thomas Henry Huxley, Life and Letters of Thomas Huxley
Life’s problems wouldn’t be called “hurdles” if there wasn’t a way to get over them. ~Author Unknown
Today’s Inspirational Picture
Today’s Decoration
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