As we all know, our inner reality tends to override our external reality.

For example, externally it may be a beautiful sunny day and the birds are singing happily, but inside we feel anxious, angry or upset about something. Our inner state of disharmony is overriding the external harmony around us.

Similarly, if we are in a positive mood internally then we can be unaffected by our outward surroundings. People around us can be negative, the sky may be grey and gloomy, but inside we are feeling positive and optimistic.

And thus we know that how we feel inside is not dependent on external circumstances. We can choose to be in a state of harmony, no matter what is happening externally in our life, and this is where our true power and freedom lie.

No matter what circumstance we are in and what unpleasant thoughts are bouncing around in our mind, we always have the freedom to choose internal harmony over disharmony. We always have the freedom to come away from the noise in our mind and to bring our attention back to our body. Then we are in the right place to release any tension being held there and to restore emotional equilibrium. We do this simply by breathing and relaxing.

Physical tension is how fear and other harmful emotions are held in our body, so simply by relaxing our muscles we are allowing negativity to be released from our tissues, thus allowing ourselves to feel more calm, connected, balanced and at peace.

The ability to do this in the midst of turbulent emotions such as stress, anger or fear is one of the most important skills to practice and master in life. And it is much easier than we think. It’s simply a case of paying attention to our body instead of our mind, and seeing what is needed there.

Usually we need to feel more ease and relaxation. Often we need more oxygen, increased blood flow, more movement and activity. And sometimes we simply need quietness, silence and rest.

You will know what is needed when you pay attention to how you are feeling, rather than what you are thinking. Throughout the day ask yourself: “How does my body feel right now? Is there tension in my muscles? Do I feel restless or agitated? What would my body most benefit from right now?” It could just be that you need to relax to feel more at peace, but perhaps you need to get outside and be active. Often we just need more oxygen in our system. Get used to paying attention to what your body really needs in each moment.

When we prioritise attending to our body and nurturing an inner state of harmony and balance, our relationship with the external world automatically changes. We no longer feel at the mercy of our thoughts or the world. On the contrary, our external reality (including our thoughts) mirrors our internal state of harmony. This is one of the most fundamental spiritual truths that we so easily forget: Our perception of the outer world is merely a reflection of our inner world.

So our primary and most important responsibility is to nurture a state of health, balance, peace and harmony within ourselves. As we do this we attune more and more to the joyful natural harmony of this magnificent planet, and to the divine luminosity of spiritual reality. We slowly start to realise that we are working together with these grand forces and they are calling us to engage in a journey that will transform us to the very core.

Essentially, it is a healing journey back to love.

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Live in gratitude
http://AlexanderBell.org