Compliments of Dolarz via Flickr

Our minds are frequently in a mode of struggle. The continual “what if?” echoes in its corridors, causing us to engage in obsessive thought, or checking behaviors. Why do we feel compelled to imagine the worst, when envisioning the opposite is far better?

Our problem I think resides in overload – in television, computers, wireless devices, and information that is 24/7 thrust in our faces. Ironically, I’m writing this blog post long hand. My best ideas arrive in auto dictation if I’m surrounded by nothing but silence. Meditation’s portal is found in just this quietude. Inside is an inner pool of all things needed – peace, prosperity, and protection. We miss the boat because we’re many times off elsewhere – in the latest headline, e-mail, or text message.

I’m resisting internet connection on my cell phone for the same reason – round the clock interference makes us frenetic, and less likely to hear our inner voice. This is the point when we become susceptible to sources outside ourselves.

M. Scott Peck allowed for two hours/day to unplug; in other words, to pray or meditate. This time in his opinion was not only well spent, but essential. Below are some ways to inject solitude into your daily routine:

• Avoid turning on the TV first thing. If you have a television in your bedroom, the temptation may be overwhelming. Avoiding incessant chatter when you awake gives you time to read something inspirational, or simply look out the window with reverence. Gratitude comes easier when we’re not bombarded with other things.
   
• Walk. Putting one foot in front of the other creates a rhythmic pace that calms us, sorts our thinking, and helps us find solutions. I recommend strolling outside so that all of your senses can participate (and you can further escape distraction).
   
• Read before falling asleep. Something that creates a soothing mental image is most conducive to productive dream states. You want to leave yourself with a mental picture that motivates your thoughts in a positive direction.
   
• Trust yourself. Second guessing is a recipe for disaster if we regurgitate events past in our minds. Keeping a daily journal facilitates the recall process, and helps you have faith in the future.

Now seems like a perfect time to begin. We’re in the process of refining our souls, finding what’s important, and tossing the rest. The journey to our center necessitates contemplation.