Day 9 - Connecting your inner voice to the present moment
Being extremely aware of our experience, internal and external, is the most beautiful gift you can give yourself.
Presence is the raw magnetic field of energy that a person carries. Every human has presence but when we strengthen and focus this superpower, we become extremely aware of our needs and desire for connection. The superpower of presence also helps us become extremely aware of people in our lives and what they may need or what we can learn from them. In essence, presence makes way for meaningful connection. The inner voice thrives on meaningful connection.
Circling back to Day 2, being fully present also allows your true authentic self to shine. People who are naturally authentic have a presence that is hard to ignore and ignites connection with others. It is a powerful quality to witness and feel. When you see someone walk in the room and you would describe them as having a strong presence, the only thing you’re observing is self-awareness, confidence and authenticity. Connection does not mean you need to become a people person. It’s about allowing exploring the value of presence with others and when we’re alone.
For me, being present is being completely aware of my surroundings and ready to learn and experience. That is something that I struggle with sometimes. For example, I'll walk into a room and think I don’t need to learn anything and have presumptions of that experience or situation. Most of the time, I’m wrong or I miss opportunities to learn or to ignite something in me that makes me want ask questions and further my self-discovery and awareness.
Presence is self-respect. If I’m not truly present, I find the disconnection mutes my inner voice. I don’t get to have opinions. I don’t get to say what I want to say. I don’t have permission. I feel like my inner voice gets completely squashed if I’m not truly present wherever I am.
When I feel like I’ve lost my presence or I need to be grounded, I do mini breathing exercises, even if I’m in a social situation. It’s very simple. I’ll do that as many times as I need. If I have to excuse myself to deepen that exercise, I will. It’s important to me, when I don’t feel present, to bring my feet back to the ground because I deserve that and the people around me deserve that. Knowing that in any situation and in any setting or environment, I’m there and I’m ready, as myself. That practice of self-awareness amplifies my inner voice.
Listen
Exercises & Journal Prompts
Breath Work
Choose a number and breathe in slowly to the counting and breathe out slowly to the same number. Breathe in 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8… hold the breath for 8 seconds and breathe out for 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8. Do this many times a day, alone or with others (even in triggering social situations). You can imagine inhaling the good, positive feelings and releasing any energy that makes you feel bad or unhappy on the exhale.
Sensation Practice
Clasp your hands or hold something like a favorite object or crystal (gem) so you can awaken your sensations. If you don’t have an object just clasp your hands. Choose a number and breathe in and out on the number you choose. Anytime you may feel overwhelmed by anxiety or negative emotions, begin to adopt the practice of sensation, in your hands, to bring you into the present moment.
In your journal, record how you felt before and after each exercise. Being able to recognize the way we shift is huge as we implement these tools into healthy habits.
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Content Warning: This workshop content (video, written, audio) discusses body dysmorphia, eating disorders, and strong emotions. If you need help at any time, please call 1-(800) 931-2237 for the National Eating Disorders Hotline or 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.