Sit comfortably. Breathe deeply. When you are relaxed and calm, look around the room where you are seated, concentrate on each thing that you observe around you and name it out loud. A cupboard, a table, a chair.
By naming these things you instantly pull yourself into the moment and become present. This is the goal of any meditation technique: to be fully present and aware of your surroundings. To stop living in the past or the future. To trick your brain for long enough to really appreciate the beauty of the here and now, and if you could manage to do that you would live without attachment and in peace. You would be able to completely accept, absorb and let go.
Whilst doing research for a project I read up about the meaning of swans and it turns out they're a symbol of spiritual enlightenment. Buddhist masters are referred to as “Paramahansa” which means “Great swan” because the swan is able to live on the water but it’s feathers remain dry. The swan lives in this world but doesn’t get attached to it. It soars to the skies as easily as it swims on top of the water. The swan is a symbol of graceful detachment.
Travel brings you into a state of constant meditation because everything is new. You spend your days walking around strange places, observing, taking pictures, naming. This is a cathedral, a strange person, a big shop. This a famous bridge, a potential friend, an unknown place. Your body goes into a state of alertness, because in the unknown lies threat, a bit of distrust. You are ripped out of your comfort zone. You can't get attached to anything because you know that tomorrow or the next day you'll be moving on again. You become a zen master.
However, the repetition of newness also becomes predictable, and so at some point it becomes advisable to do the opposite, just to keep you on your toes and all. I go back to predictability. Live in one place, drive the same way everyday, have a clear routine. I'm amazed at how much detail everyday possesses, how much I previously missed.
I go for lunch with my cousin. She tells me about a couple who walked across the continent. It took them three years. She tells me about their trials, the people they met, the lives they lived. Under the table I can feel my toes curling up and my heartbeat quickening. I know that no matter how difficult their time might have been they will remember their trip in detail for the rest of their lives. I envy them. I want more.
I can't begin to tell you in how many ways my trip has changed my views about life, myself, the world. It's woken a sleepy monster in me that won't allow me to sit around for too long. Don’t hoard too many possessions, it says. Live light. Don’t get too attached.
Surprise yourself.
No comments:
Post a Comment