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A SOFT-FOCUS WORLD
By Cornelia Powell | June 2, 2008
We live in a world where we tend to “hard focus” most of our waking time: concentrating, figuring things out, trying to remember a myriad of facts and details — over-using the thinking mind. Sound familiar?
Resting the eyes is one way to have a quick and relaxing “refreshment of ease.” By closing out the visual stimulation of your busy world for a bit — and using your breath and intention — you can quiet your mind, find an inner stillness, and see the world anew!
One simple tip is to remember to “soft focus” when you are reading or using the computer or talking with someone or just sitting and thinking. Soft focus is allowing your eyes to relax into their sockets, like they’re floating — instead of pushing them out.
Notice right now which you are doing and allow your eyes to relax, letting go of anything “hard” or forceful — simply allowing the eyes to see. Just having the awareness of this distinction can decrease your eye strain and make a difference in your energy level.
Whether you are planning a wedding or planning what’s for dinner — I invite you to “soft focus” your way through the process!
Take a break often in your day and do this little exercise: close your eyes; take a couple of deep breaths; and roll your eyes slowly 360 degrees to the right; then repeat, rolling them slowly to the left; stretching your eyes as you’re taking deep breaths. Repeat as often as you can. (Since we hold a great deal of tension in our eyes, doing this exercise right before bed is a great way to relax and ease into a restful night’s sleep — when you rest your eyes, your whole body feels more relaxed.)
Rest your eyes, your mind clears. Your mind clears, your eyes see more.
Love. Listen. Let go.
… with love from Cornelia
Topics: Meditation, Stillness & Relaxation, Women's Notes |