EP.41 / Mindful Moments
David Harborne | Redesign you Life | 3 min read | 5th OF APRIL
If the world is quiet and slow, take a moment and join the discussion on our podcast.
about the author. DAVID HARBORNE
HI, I’M DAVID
A coach and author who asks powerful questions to understand how we can redesign our lives for the better. I believe there’s no single solution for becoming more fulfilled and living a life of purpose; when we know ourselves better and what works for us, we can make better decisions and live a life we choose.
Know more about me, click here
EMBRACING THE QUIET in the Still of the Night
In the stillness of the night, when the world quiets down, our minds often do the opposite. The quieter it gets outside, the louder it becomes within. It's an experience many can relate to - lying in bed, enveloped by the darkness, while our thoughts race unchecked at a maddening pace. This dichotomy of external silence and internal cacophony serves as the inspiration for our latest podcast episode, "Midnight Mindfulness: Easing Into Sleep with David Harbour".
The podcast delves into the common struggle of sleeplessness that plagues many of us. It's not just about the absence of sleep, but the quality of rest we yearn for. During a particularly insightful session, I had the opportunity to converse with a lady grappling with the loss of dear ones and the resultant sleep disturbances. As she recounted her nights of waking up at two in the morning, unable to drift back into slumber, it became evident that this was a shared human experience, needing a shared solution.
It brings to mind the poignant words of the Dalai Lama:
"Sleep is the best meditation."
But how do we meditate when our minds refuse to quieten? The answer lies in shifting the focus from our thoughts to our feelings.
The Practice of Mindfulness in the Wee Hours
Mindfulness is not just a practice for the daylight hours. Its principles are profoundly applicable when the night falls. The key is not to fight the onslaught of thoughts but to observe them without attachment, and then to gently steer our attention towards the emotional landscape within us.
Our emotions, unlike the thousands of thoughts that can run through our mind, are far fewer in number and, thus, more manageable. When we ask ourselves, "How am I feeling right now?" we ground ourselves in the present moment. This practice helps to contain the situation, allowing our emotions the space to be acknowledged and then to dissipate.
A Technique for Tranquillity
In the podcast, we explore a simple yet effective technique: sinking into our feelings. When your mind is buzzing with thoughts, pause and turn your attention inward to identify your current emotion. Sit with it, feel it, and let it be. Over time, as you stay with the feeling, you'll notice it begins to wane, making room for a new emotion or a sense of calm.
This is a process of letting go, a theme that resonates deeply within all of us. Our past, especially the painful parts, can have a hold on our present. By acknowledging and then releasing the emotions tied to our thoughts, we can begin to detach and find peace.
Letting Go to Find Rest
The art of letting go is akin to tidying up a cluttered room. When we clear away the emotional clutter, we make space for tranquillity to enter. And as we let go, we allow ourselves to slip into a restful sleep, naturally and effortlessly.
This technique is not just about better sleep; it's about better living. It's about transforming our night time trials into a practice that enriches our daily lives. With each night, as we learn to let go of the emotions that stir us, we find ourselves more at peace, more in tune with the rhythms of our own lives.
Your Journey to Better Sleep
I invite you to embark on this journey of nighttime mindfulness with us. Whether you're struggling with sleep, wrestling with anxiety, or simply seeking a deeper sense of peace, this podcast is for you. It's a companion for those late hours when you need guidance to navigate the labyrinth of your own mind.
And remember, this is not just about one night or even a series of restless nights. It's about cultivating a practice that will enhance your wellbeing in profound ways.
Ep.41/
EMBRACING THE QUIET in the Still of the Night
🔺Take home message/insight
So what’s the takeaway from all this?
As you explore the pathways to a peaceful night's sleep, remember the words of the Dalai Lama. Let sleep become a meditation for you, a nightly practice that restores not only your body but also your soul.
To learn more about mindfulness techniques and how they can help you redesign your life for peace and fulfilment, visit my website at www.davidharborne.com. Here, you'll find a wealth of resources and guidance to support you on your journey to emotional and mental wellness.
Your Next Step: Embrace the Change.
If David's vision resonates with you and you're feeling the tug to take charge of your destiny, don't hesitate. Whether you're looking for one-on-one coaching sessions or just want to delve deeper into the world of life redesign, you can explore more at David's website.
I hope you found this blog enlightening. Your journey towards a fulfilled life is just a click away. Don’t let life happen to you; take control and redesign it the way you want it to be.
Cheers,
David Harborne
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