Slogan #10
Begin the Sequence of Sending and Taking with Yourself
Reflection:
Today, I turned to the Surya Mudra – the Mudra of the Sun – to help reduce my anxiety. This simple yet powerful gesture became a beacon of calm in my practice.
My reflection on this slogan was sparked by a vivid dream I had last night. I found myself in a situation where I could observe my actions and reactions as if I were both the participant and the observer. Have you ever experienced a dream where you felt like you could control or direct your next move? In my dream, I felt paralyzed and helpless. Then, a moment of clarity emerged – I realized I could change my situation. I saw a window, pried it open, and screamed for help. That’s when I woke up, gasping for air, my breath short and ragged.
I placed both hands on my chest, feeling the rhythm of my heart, focusing on it until my breathing normalized. My body softened back into the bed, and I felt a warm, comforting embrace that lulled me back to sleep.
When I began my meditation practice today, my body was still anxious, the remnants of my dream lingering. I turned to the Surya Mudra, seeking its calming effects. Reflecting on the slogan, I reminded myself of the importance of developing compassion for my suffering and acknowledging it fully.
Breathe in—I am safe.
Breathe out—You are safe.
Breathe in—I am safe.
Breathe out—We are safe.
As my practice drew to a close, I felt more space within my body, a softening of the anxiety. It hadn’t completely disappeared, and that was okay. The journey towards inner peace and self-compassion is ongoing, and today, I took another step forward.
