Consciousness Embodied

We are consciousness in embodied form. What we think of as the self—whether called soul, spirit, energy, Shakti, or simply our core—enters the body at birth. Our awareness of this essence can vary widely from person to person and from moment to moment, but whether we are aware of it or not, we remain consciousness embodied.

I believe wellness lies in finding how essence most effectively (and joyously) partners with the body- mind. Finding the dance that integrates what essence knows and wants for us, with the wisdom of sensation, and the ability of the mind to sort, analyze, and imagine, allows us to live a life that feels purposeful and joyful.

One of my favorite poems from Rabindranath Tagore speaks to this.

I slept and dreamt that life was joy.

I awoke and saw that life was service.

I acted and behold, service was joy.

So many think mind-body-soul integration (as this concept is often referred to) is a great idea, in theory. In practice, it's a rarity.

We can go to yoga and feel more aligned and in touch with ourselves, for a while. Peace from meditating might last until the next agitation arises. But living with conscious awareness of mind-body-soul throughout the day? That's harder. It's much easier to default to the demands of the ego and the thoughts brought to you by an "always on" mind.

If you would like to cultivate a lifestyle that incorporates mind-body-soul awareness, here are a couple of first steps.

1. Set an intention to become more aware in general

2. Write a list of benefits or reasons you want to do this

3. Start noticing sensations when breathing, walking, eating, and working throughout the day. (Setting a reminder on your device to go off hourly is a great idea)

These initial steps will put you on a path of checking in with your body more often. As you do this, your mind becomes a little less in charge, and the body can allow and support space for essence to move.

Please reach out with questions or to report your experience with these practices.