Everyday I am shown the healing power of mindfulness. The ability to pause, and rest in the awareness of being.
That might sound lofty, out of reach, or just plain boring. But, I ask you…
When you look back in your life, do you now see all the moments of joy and complete freedom that were there? Ready and waiting to be experienced in that moment? Did they pass by unseen, unfelt, unrecognized?
Of course there were lots. Many get missed or only seen in retrospect. The human mind has not been trained to be in the present moment most of the time. That’s ok.
Let’s begin today. How do you open to joy in your life? Can you be vulnerable enough to let yourself allow all the joy that is available? What, exactly are you waiting for?
That might seem like a stupid question… of course I allow joy! Of course I like being happy! I can’t wait to feel joy again!
Great. But I’m not talking about the big, stupendous joyful events that are so incredibly awesome. I’m talking about the day-to-day practice of allowing joy in, no matter what.
How is that possible, you ask? Well I am not minimizing the difficulties, trauma and sadness that come with being human. That is part of the life package.
But within that, and because of that, we can experience joy. It does not have to prevent it.
I have seen some of the strongest, most joyful people rise from the ashes of devastating trauma.
As I sat with both of my parents who were dying from cancer, there were still moments of joy.
First, notice: As we inquire into the experience of joy, we may find some unresolved beliefs about ourselves such as ‘I don’t deserve to feel happy’ or ‘How can I feel joy when others are suffering’ or ‘When all is good, then I can feel happy’ (don’t hold your breath) or ‘I will feel happy when I get, do or achieve XX’.
Second: Breathe and extend your exhale so you can open. We can hack a stressed-out nervous system simply by extending our exhale.
Third: Observe. Look around you. Look at someone’s face, the sky, the room, nature. All is joy.
The more you practice joy, the more will come to you. This breath, this sunshine, this rain, this cashier, this car, this music, this moment.
Please, today, open up to the joy that is here already. There will always be things we want to change, but right here right now what is already good?
As you know by now I am so passionate about the magic of mindfulness to change lives. I want to share this with you.
If you are ready for change and to embrace the life you are living then join me in the summer Fear to Freedom 5-week online course in mindfulness for anxiety.
There is one week left to register so don’t miss out. The link to join is right here:
Your life is worth it.
Lots of love,
Madeleine
2 thoughts on “Can You Allow All the Joy that is Available?”
I have spoken with a very kind person in my area, who is experienced in group classes for anxiety and depression = Nan Dickie. She has given me your website to investigate mindfulness and your professional advice on the aspects of anxiety. My anxiety started in ernest after having the flu in February 2015. I was 68 yrs. Three years ago Interior Health directed me to a six-week anxiety/depression workshop. I now have a good ‘relaxatio deep breathing” technique that does help when the adrenals are over working and “flight or fight” has kicked in and my heart rate takes off. It always occurs at night — I am concerned that as I grow older, it will start happening through the day too. I am greatly relieved to have access to your professional information and teaching sessions — although today is Sept 30 2019 and well past the commencement of these video sessions.
Hi Jessica, Thanks for reaching out. I am so glad you have started with a good deep breathing technique. I would say as we get older, there is always room to learn more and more and practice more. So, keep going, keep breathing and learning and if it happens through the day, you will be prepared. Slowly and gradually over time you will shift your own nervous system. Make sure you watch the videos and reach out with any questions.
Take care,
Madeleine