To stand at the ocean's edge and give one's self over to the rhythm of the waves invites inner peace. Is it their patterning, their predictability, that lures us into a saner experience of life? Or perhaps the sound of gentle lapping simply brings ease? For me, even gazing out upon the horizon with its great vastness invites me into inner spaciousness. Tension leaves and breathing space is mine once again.
What is it precisely about water that has such a calming effect upon us? I have three theories, all of which could explain why we feel so at home in or near the liquidy stuff, though I'm sure there are more ...
~ Our bodies are composed of (on the average) 60-70% water. When we are in proximity with water we may experience a tuning fork effect. Our physical form resonates with a similar form and relaxation naturally occurs.
~ For nine months as fledgling human beings we live in a watery sac of protectiveness. Within our mother's womb is safety, calm, warmth, as we are nurtured into life. Water represents a place where all is well.
~ Water is the primordial stuff of which life itself is made. As evolving beings, we may have arisen from the waters of creation to become who we are today. Water may (on an archetypal level) represent divine origin, spiritual homecoming on the most profound level.
In all of the world's spiritual traditions, water is central to rituals. Water, used ceremonially, baptizes, affirms, and blesses. Water transforms and heals. It nourishes us in this life, bonds us together, and carries us forward into the next. Any of these important acts offer the recipient a benediction of peace for body, mind, heart and spirit.
Create a Watery Welcome
In the course of our day, there may be many ways to connect with the emotional relief or peace that water provides. While a lunch hour spent seaside could work miracles, most of us do not have that luxury. But we can wash our hands, shower, or bathe with the intention of sacralizing the moment.
Washing your hands: As you place your hands under the faucet, bring all your attention to the act. Go slowly, breathe. Feel the water flow over them. Stretch your fingers, allowing them to receive, open, and relax. Visually attend to what is happening and watch the water caress and comfort your hands—lovely extensions of you and your heart in the world. Receive this liquid benediction.
Showering: Close your eyes and mindfully feel the water cascade over you. Bring your attention to the top of your head and feel the water slide down your body. Move your attention to other areas of your body—shoulders, back, stomach, feet, for example—and notice how they feel as the water touches them. Breathe deeply and evenly and allow all negative thoughts and feelings to fall away. Imagine them blending with the water droplets as they slide off your skin and go down the drain. Receive and give thanks for this watery transformation.
Bathing: Immerse yourself in what feels to be a watery vessel—a mother's womb or the womb of the universe—one where you are connected with Source, divinely protected and loved. Relax, breathe deeply and evenly. Move about a bit and feel the water gently lap at you like waves, soothing you even more. Slowly slide beneath the surface until your ears are beneath the water. Listen to your own heartbeat—the primordial heartbeat. Listen to your own breathing—the breath of the Universe.
Today, allow an experience with water to bless you and create a Pocket of Peace in your busy day. May inner calm be yours as water welcomes you "Home."
Janice Lynne Lundy is an inspirational speaker, interfaith spiritual director, and the author of Your Truest Self: Embracing the Woman You Are Meant to Be, available in bookstores nationwide and at amazon.com To learn more about Jan, visit her website, http://www.awakenedliving.com, subscribe to her free newsletter, and receive a new 90-page, inspirational e-book, The Awakened Woman's Guide to Life. Jan welcomes your comments and questions: jan@awakenedliving.com.
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