themeditationpodcast

Subscriber Update - December 2017

Added 2017-12-08 04:28:22 +0000 UTC

Dear friends,

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Light

For many of us, December is a time to celebrate. Our nights are longest and darkest — but the cycle is slowing down, and we know light will soon return to the world. Our weather tends to be cold and wet, encouraging us to stay indoors, to hole up, to slow down, to hibernate, to look inward, to become introspective or moody. We use more flames and artificial lights in our living spaces, warding off the deepest night. Our cultural holidays celebrate light, family, home, gifts, renewal, rebirth, and creating new intentions or re-affirming our goals.

[Note: We have never lived in the Southern Hemisphere. There, it's Summer; the days and natural light are at their strongest and brightest. The cultural holidays are similar, due to migration, with their own set of traditions and styles.]

Darkness

Of course, Light and Darkness are connected. One does not exist without the other. It is no coincidence that we celebrate with lights during the darkest time of year. Even when we look within, our light-imbued holidays may be tinged with darkness. We may have expectations toward — or from — family members; apprehension about travel or breaking of routine; remembering loved ones who have gone; moods affected by weather. It's a perfect time to focus on a Light.

Light Meditation
(21-day Challenge)

Today, and for the next three weeks, we invite you to try a wonderful meditation on light. Choose a time of day when your world is dark and quiet — ideally either just before sleep, or first thing in the morning.

This meditation requires 15-20 minutes, a candle, and a surface to set the candle at eye level.

First, spend 5 minutes preparing your space:

Clear any obvious clutter.
Place a chair, mat, or pillow to sit on.
Set your candle at eye level on the surface in front of you.
Light the candle.
If you use a timer, set it for 10 minutes, with a gentle stop sound.

Now that your space is prepared:

Sit. Stare at the flame of the candle.
Breathe. Perceive.

Optional: After the meditation, spend five minutes writing in a journal or notebook. Write about your experience in the meditation, Light and Darkness, or anything that comes to mind.

Of course you can modify the meditation to suit your style. Want to sit for 5 minutes? Or 20? That’s fine. Want to make it a 7-day challenge? Or a 180-day challenge? It’s up to you. Want to focus on the Winter Solstice, the Menorah, or the Nativity? Go ahead — this is your practice!

We would love to hear about your experience, so feel free to share in comment or message.