Something happens in the presence of love
On the way to my healing room from the teaching space there is a stylized plaque I purchased at Kripalu that says “love Heals.” I display it to affirm to all who enter what the true source of healing is. Something happens in the presence of love. There is an increased ability to trust, surrender, let go and release.
We’ve all experienced this. Do you recall a moment when you could no longer carry inside yourself some unwanted feeling you kept hidden for too long? Then finally, the right person and circumstances opened the door for your disclosure. Like a pin prick penetrating a stuffed balloon, the energy you were carrying was set free, allowing a new lightness and ease.
When we do have someone to share with on a deep level, whether a healer, partner or friend, it is a blessing. What about being your own accepting listener and supporter? This skill means you can transmute harsh feelings in the moment.
Cynthia Bourgeault is one who teachers this skill. I am blessed to have been in her presence a number of times. She is a mystic, scholar, teacher and contemplative, in the tradition of Thomas Keating. Her books and retreats have had a profound impact on many people.
Cynthia's “welcoming practice” is a way to hold all circumstances, challenges, and feelings in love’s embrace. My notes from one of her retreats: “Use everything to increase the quality and quantity of your presence in conscious love.” She describes a three-step process: when you become aware you are in the grip of emotional pain; 1) Focus on it; 2) Welcome it; 3) Let it go.
Welcoming strong feelings is not our normal reaction. Too often we push down our fear, anger, distrust, judgments of ourselves and others. But these shadowy sides simply need some space. What we resist persists! When we bring in the breath along with a welcoming heart, we loosen she shadow's hold.
Creating neutrality is another way to soften strong emotions. I often coach clients to consider switching their perceptions slightly. Rather than affirm “I am angry” consider “the energy of anger is moving through me.” This alternate statement affirms our own ability to create distance.
Try one of these methods for your own spiritual progress right now: -do you have a deep secret? What do you feel would happen if you told someone your secret and it landed in a loving heart? Are you willing to try this out with a friend or healer? Next time a shadowy part visits your awareness, try saying “welcome.” After all, the pain is coming to you for healing. Now is the chance to give her your unconditional love. Give her a name also! This helps to distance the emotions and paves a way for conversation! Welcome “Angry Alice”, “Sad Samantha,” “Frustrated Frannie!” -Can you accept the part of yourself as one who loves you unconditionally? What name would you give her so you could call her in when you need her? Even “Higher Self” would work – sometimes we need more than one “opinion” when these strong feelings flood us.
Are you struggling with a deep emotion and feel you want help? Healing work can help you release the energy of anything not of love and acceptance. Use the coupon below, and walk through the doorway to my healing room labeled "Love Heals" and see what happens. You'll be glad you did. Love’s power wants no holding back. Give yourself total freedom to love yourself and others. Because you ARE love, and love NEEDS you for its own expression!