When you’re in the middle of a sh*t storm, it’s not the time to abandon the ship.
“When you’re in the middle of a shit storm, it’s not the time to abandon the ship. If sailors had abandoned ships with every storm, we might still think the world is flat.”
The above is a direct quote from my amazing husband, James Kawainui. We were sitting at the kitchen table, talking about a post on FB that deeply disturbed me. Someone I know personally had written the following on her page in response to all the trauma and divisiveness going on in the US today:
“I am okay and I’m not okay. I absolutely don’t want to be alive anymore. At the moment I don’t have any plans to end my life, even though I don’t want to be here. It’s just all too much.”
The thing is, there were comments on this post that reflected the same feeling. She wasn’t alone in her experience. Fires. Hurricanes. Diversity. Rage. Violence. Friends and family, communities pitted against each other. I could make a much longer list and I bet you can, too.
To say that this is not an easy time in the world would be a gross understatement, at the very least.
So where do we go from here? How do we remain standing when the boat is rocking like mad and the water is flooding in? How do we hold our center when the desire to jump is stronger than the desire to thrive?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately. I imagine you are, too.
And here is what I’ve decided is important…
Practicing Random Acts of Kindness, in expected and unexpected ways. Because I believe that kindness can change the world.
Sharing love in whatever way I can, whenever I am able.
Taking action to support and speak up when it is appropriate and will not cause harm.
Giving generously to people or organizations aligned with my values that are making a positive difference.
Paying close and minute attention to every thought that comes into my head … and if I find myself stuck in loops of unproductive thoughts, breathing in positivity and exhaling negativity until my thinking shifts. (fyi, this is an amazing and very helpful meditation practice anytime.)
Practicing Forgiveness, because all those unproductive thoughts and emotions need love and attention, not to mention all the other stuff that comes up.
Investing time every day in self care, through meditation, exercise and eating well. Because how we take care of ourselves has a tremendous impact on our energy and emotions and is directly reflected in what happens in our lives.
Practicing Gratitude. A lot. More than ever before. Because Gratitude is the easiest way to create coherence between our hearts and our minds.
Playing my bowls, chanting, making music. Because it’s a big joy portal.
Continuing to study, learn and grow so my mind and heart are always expanding.
Reaching out for help when I need it (and some days, it feels like I need a lot; in fact, most of this year I’ve needed it a lot.)
And Laughing as much as possible on a daily basis (we watch re-runs of Frazier almost every night before we go to sleep. Brilliant!!)
What are you doing to keep your head above water?
What are some of the ways you’re helping those in need?
What’s on your list?
We all need each other now, more than ever before, to inspire, uplift and keep us collectively on course … even if at times, the boat seems perilously small and the waves treacherously high.
Here’s a little video I did of a 90 second bowl meditation for a sweet pause in this crazy time. Emerald for healing and Platinum to expand and connect you with the Divine Feminine.
I hope this helps you to anchor into your beautiful heart. This is the bowl I played for my father the last time we saw each other, before he made his transition. It contains the immense love of that moment, which I share with you.
And, of course, if you are needing soothing music to calm and nourish your body, mind and soul during the challenging moments, be sure to visit Sound of Ashana.
(Heads up! Very soon we’ll be launching the first of several new releases: Celestial Sleep is coming your way in the next few weeks, so please stay tuned!)
Sending you waves of love, peace and comfort, today and always.
Love to you!
