Surrendering to Stillness
Friday, October 21, 2016
Surrendering to Stillness
Yesterday, I finally had some time to myself.
Throughout most of my life, I have typically defined myself as an introvert, meaning I have highly valued my time alone in quiet places that feel like home. But yesterday, as I found myself alone with the total freedom to choose how to spend my time, I couldn’t stand it. I felt like I was going to crawl out of my skin, it was so uncomfortable. What was I supposed to do? Relax?
I didn’t even know what that meant anymore.
It’s not that I’ve been particularly stressed or anything. I’ve just grown accustomed to being in a constant state of motion and action. Idleness bothers me now.
So naturally, I called everyone I thought might be free in a desperate attempt to make plans and surround myself with people and things to do. The stillness was too stifling.
In the back of my mind, I was reminded of a bit of wisdom my instructor had shared with us: when we find ourselves uncomfortable with stillness, that’s when we most need to pay attention to it. So when it became clear I would be spending the rest of the evening in quiet solitude, I sat myself down and gave the stillness my full attention…
…and quickly fell asleep.
It turns out, I was exhausted.
When I surrendered my restless energy, my body was able to take what it really needed: rest.
So I could wake up this morning rejuvenated and ready for another Energizer-Bunny day.
Have you been taking the time to surrender to stillness?
What has your body been trying to tell you?
I encourage you to take the time to listen. You might be surprised by what you find!
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