We have been living in the midst of change – in a time of uncertainty – leaving many of us wondering what will happen next as we move into a new phase of life. Although we may feel unclear about our direction, we can choose to take a breath, and open to something new.
“There is a universal, intelligent, life force, that exists within everyone and everything. It resides within us as deep wisdom, an inner knowing. We can access this wonderful source of knowledge and wisdom through our intuition, an inner sense that tells us what feels right and true for us at any given moment. – Shakti Gawain
Ever struggle with trying to figure things out, only to experience greater conflict and confusion? The more we struggle, the further we drift from the answer.
Many years ago, I had a dream that I was in the ocean, but instead of swimming, I was drowning. I was living in Seattle at the time, unclear about my future and what to do in my next phase of life. I was trying to figure it out and was in a state of confusion about where to live, whether to complete a course of study I had recently begun, and whether to continue in my profession or find a new line of work, among other lingering questions. (Can you relate?)
As I observed the dream, I saw myself, clearly and vividly, as if watching a movie – arms flailing about above me, trying to stay afloat. I was far from shore, with nothing and no one in sight to rescue me. I was panicking, and the more fearful I became, the more difficult to stay above the choppy water. As I watched the dream unfold, I could tell that my energy was weakening, and saw myself periodically sinking beneath the water’s surface. Then – out of nowhere – a thought occurred to me: STOP STRUGGLING AND FLOAT. I heeded the message, and as if coming to my senses, lay flat on my back, arms relaxed and lying quietly beside me. Suddenly, the water became clear and calm. Although still far from shore, I could see land, and knew that I was safe.
I can see the dream in my mind’s eye as clearly as if it were yesterday. A powerful lesson. Although I still forget, and my arms occasionally flail about as I try to ‘figure things out,’ I know there is an easier way, and as I let go of the struggle, I find it.
Many of us are grappling with the same questions today. Where to go, and what to do as we move into a new stage of life. There are answers – dreams and desires that are still alive and active within you, waiting for the chance to rise to the surface, and guide you. But we must learn how to listen.
One process I began many years ago, and continue to practice today, comes from The Art of Inner Listening by Jessie K. Crum. I’ve shared a modified version of the practice with many of my clients, and in my intuition development workshops, with promising results. If you like to journal, or are willing to give it a try, the following exercise may provide you with some insights.
The Art of Inner Listening Practice
- Set aside some quiet time, away from external distractions.
- Have a pen and paper handy.
- Take a few breaths and let your mind and body relax. You might find it helpful to create a ritual or mood, like lighting a candle, or playing some soft music in the background, and be sure to silence your phone.
- Close your eyes and think of a situation that’s been troubling you. It may be a relationship, a work situation, a financial dilemma, or other concern.
- When you’re ready, open your eyes, and write the question below across the top of your paper:
“What does my Higher Self want to communicate to me about this situation?”
(Feel free to replace Higher Self with “Intuition,” “Inner Knowing,” or another word or phrase that resonates with you.)
- The answer may come in the form of an image, a word, a feeling, a sentence or a paragraph. It will feel clear and certain in your body, and won’t be judgmental or wordy. You may experience a sense of inner strength and security inside of you.
- If you’re tempted to direct or change the wording, stop and take a breath, letting go of preconceived expectations, or the need to get it right.
Tip: When I get stumped, I find it helpful to say the following phrases aloud: “I am willing to listen,” and “I hear only the truth.” Then relax and return to the process.
- When you’re done writing, sit with your answer. If it’s the voice of your intuition, you will feel a deep sense of peace and your answer will feel authentic and honest.
- Is there an action or next step you can take to implement your inner guidance?
Don’t worry if nothing happens or if the process doesn’t work for you the first time you try it. As with any skill, the more you follow your intuition, and see the results, the stronger it will become.
With love,
Theresa
© Article and Photo Theresa Conti 2020
Bio
Theresa Conti was born and raised in New York. She is a Certified Life Coach, Energy Healing Practitioner, Workshop Facilitator and Author with more than 25 years’ experience. Her books include Alphabet Affirmations: Transform Your Life and Love Yourself, and I Am the Treasure. Theresa specializes in helping her clients manage their stress, and develop inner resources, like confidence, courage and resilience, so they can live with greater ease, realize their goals and dreams and better meet life’s challenges. She has an international practice and provides coaching services via Skype, telephone, and other platforms. She can be reached at Theresa@reconnecting2you.com.
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