Contemplative Interventions

In looking at the gifts we have been given that we have not opened yet in our everyday activities and practices, it is good to still ponder with awareness that there is something else possible. In doing so I had not thought about bringing in the meditative practice not only for myself but for my patients. In the meditative process the practice of honoring the comfort from the silence can be very powerful.
In this session I became aware of the “May I” phrase. May I extend comfort and empathy to you? May I share with you love. By asking may I, it feels like an invitation to join in instead of talking at the person.
I was also moved by a new tool in the boxes we carry in ourselves that I was introduced to during this session. The simplicity of the pulse. I ask you the question, have you ever taken the pulse of someone not for its clinical value but to connect in a mindful way?
Have you ever taken your pulse? What is it telling you right now? Can you see anyway this could help in your daily practice as a meditative way to help mindfully recenter yourself?
I can see in the middle of a busy day the benefit to sit for a few minutes in a meditative way taking my pulse and being mindful of where I am and what I am feeling. This may be enough of a break in a busy day to reduce the stress of what I do and reduce the burnout that comes from some of the stressful but beautiful work we do.
Barbara Rogers, MSN