Forgive Us Our Trespassing 2012 - Moco Museum Amsterdam
These past few months, l have found myself leaning back into a practice that I first encountered as a child (like many) and which l’ve had an on off relationship with since - the practice of Prayer. Even through l’ve not been as consistent as l wished l do try! For when l do pray l feel it in my very soul receiving nourishment of a different kind. Nourishment from comfort, connection and somehow reassurance. A private conversation between me and a greater energy. The conversation, a reminder, a prompt for me to get real and recognise that I can’t do or control everything (something that us humans like to think we can!)
I’m writing this post for you from the pockets of quiet time in between my preparation to go on a long awaited retreat in Costa Rica with my mentor Elena Brower. Something l had wished, envisioned and prayed for, for a such a long time. Always believing that if it was meant to be then circumstances would align. Releasing the ask, sending the intention and then surrendering it up to the ether. Eventually a greater energy aligned and responded, so in a couple of weeks l’ll be there, god willing. l say that as I never take anything for granted (like l used to when l was younger!) l feel as we get older we are able to cultivate a different type of respect for and perspective on life. So I’m still praying that we are blessed with ease and good health to get us there safe and sound.
Coming from a mixed background, my mother Church of England and my father a Muslim. I remember being given both the Bible and the Quran at an early age to read with no obligations expected. Weirdly enough whilst at school one of my top subjects and qualifications was on Religious Education. All these many years later l did not think l would be writing on the topic of prayer.
As I’ve gone through my life, my spirituality has gained insights from various teachings and schools of thought heavily influenced by yoga training. A mix of spiritual philosophies that as to date have served me well and helped me through some of my darkness times. Echoing my belief that one school of thought or teachings does not fit all. Whatever religious or spiritual teachings and beliefs you feel drawn to prayer can be a powerful tool for healing and transformations.
Recently, I’ve found myself increasingly leaning in towards writings and practices that hold the space for this line of enquiry. Observing, learning and adding insights to my spiritual and mental health toolbox as l go.
Visiting churches of all religions as well as temples all over the world over the past two decades has had a greater significance and profound affect on my emotions. Offering a sense of peace and acceptance. In return acknowledging, honouring and giving gratitude to all those who have gone before me (my ancestors and loved ones) and for the life l’m blessed to be living.
Prayer can offer true evolution.
Stay open.
Stay close to yourself.
What do you see more clearly?
Inspirations have been abound for this post. From the influences of Andō and
to Coldplays latest album ‘We Pray’ to the latest work of Dr. James R Doty ‘Mind Magic”. Mind Magic is a new release, a gem of a book which unravels the myths around manifestation. Helping us understand our brains chemical reaction to these types of practices including gratitude, belief and visualisation as well as our emotions.Prayer seems to be everywhere l look recently.
On a recent visit to one of my local churches ……..
But of course there are other essential ingredients in Prayer including faith, hope, belief and trust. However, the best thing of all is that praying costs nothing, just a few moments of your time each day to sit with yourself in a practice that can help you feel better.
The Crossover Between Manifestation and Prayer
I’ve always been a big fan of manifestation and have used the practice greatly over the years. Reading Gabby Bernsteins work as well as the work of the Hicks. But did you ever consider that Jesus was also an advocate for manifestation? Never losing his faith he spoke out about how prayer and manifestation worked together. On one occasion saying ‘Therefore l tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it and it will be yours.’ Prayer is not simply about the words we say; it’s about what we are thinking on the inside at our deepest core. Another not so easy element of this practice, is of course practising acceptance. Acceptance of what unfolds and realising that things don’t always turn out the way you had envisioned, but to go with it nonetheless, where a type of detachment is needed. Fundamentally it is worth remembering that the basic foundation of prayer is about the willingness to connect and surrender with a higher energy in a very personal way.
Ask and it will be given to you.
Tips for Praying
Keep open and aware.
Next time your out and about check out a nearby church or temple and listen see what wants to connect with you.
You can pray anywhere, anytime silently or non-silently.
Be aware that sometimes the answers will come back as a feeling or that nagging feeling to take action.
Try to keep you practice as regular as you can.
Don’t overthink anything, keep it simple.
The After Prayer check-in
What has become clearer?
How are you now feeling?
PRAYING PROJECTS
If you feel drawn to try praying then there are some good projects around. You can monitor your understanding and progress with a 40 day prayer guide at catching the wave .
One modern day prayer reading and inspiration series
YOU SHOULD DEFINITELY CHECK OUT is from Pixie Lighthorse
So try praying for a week and see what happens it must just surprise you!
Let’s make the world a less lonelier and a more kinder place
For further information and honest discussion go to TRYPRAYING
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