Like I
mentioned in an earlier blog about controlling flashbacks, it’s critical for
survivors to stay grounded in the present moment. When I start thinking about the abuse I
suffered in the past, I always remind myself that I am safe and in control, so
the flashbacks don’t start to control me. Focusing on taking deep breaths also helps.
Centering Prayer
helps me stay grounded in the present moment and develop a deeper relationship
with God. I’ve been practicing it for more than 20 years. Like any relationship, communication is important
which also means learning how to be a better listener. I am far from
perfect about this although I’ve definitely improved over the years.
You don’t move around like
yoga. You pray either sitting on the floor or in a chair, and you remain
sitting wherever you are and focus on your meditation. Before you start,
you need to choose a sacred word. Your sacred word is the symbol of your
intention to allow God’s presence and action in your soul. It can be
love, peace, or your own name for God. I love the fact that anyone from
any faith can practice it!
Once you have your sacred word and
you’re seated comfortably, close your eyes and take a few deep breathes to help
you relax. Imagine something like you’re inhaling God’s powerful peace
and love. And, exhaling all the tension and worries in your mind, body
and soul. Visualize God’s powerful, peace and love flowing into your
body. First through your mind and head, down to all your limbs, and then
penetrating your soul melting away your anxieties overpowered by God’s awesome
peace and love.
When you’re ready, silently introduce
your sacred word, be with God, and just listen. When you become aware of
your thoughts, gently return to the sacred word. Don’t be
discouraged. Be gentle with yourself. Think of it as if you’re
meeting God in a noisy coffee shop like Starbuck’s. You’re next to a loud
table. There’s nowhere to move, so you’re trying to focus on what he’s
telling you.
It’s important not to get upset
about all the distractions. Don’t worry about your thoughts. You
just let them come and go like noisy distractions in Starbuck’s you ignore, and
remain focused on your sacred word and your intention and listen. Then,
at the end of your prayer remain in silence with your eyes closed for a couple
of minutes. It’s awkward at first, but you get used to it.
In case you’re interested in finding
out more about Centering Prayer, here’s the website: http://centeringprayer.com/. What I love about Centering Prayer is that it emphasizes prayer as your
personal relationship with God!
