Attending to our unknown biases -May 2019 be a year of inclusion

Meditation is a sure fire way to reveal our hidden agendas, stereotypes, deep and sometimes uncomfortable feelings. How many of us are a bit uncomfortable diving into deep unknown waters? Most of us, yes, the tip of the iceberg metaphor has been a useful way to understand that we all have unknown parts to ourselves. The question is, what lies within these deep dark spaces? May be we have treasures, or forgotten hurts, that formed our resentments and harsh judgements. Who do I love and who do I hate? What are the qualities of mind that I share with all of humanity? Inclusion and exclusion. Who and Who do I desire to be liked by, and what happens to my quality of mind when they don't?

Meditation practices, being in relationships, living and working with people who are obviously different to us can also give us clues. Keeping our body in mind is a major practice of mindfulness called body focus. People trigger us in all sorts of unexpected ways.

How do we become well equipped to be an oceanic diver and explore the richness within our psyche, to come face to face with our unconscious biases. Relationships can force us to dive into these waters when we are not yet equipped to do so.

Q: What equipment do I need for my Mindfulness practices?

A1: Seek a qualified mentor, coach and teacher with lived experiences, who can help guide you in your practice and answer your questions, and facilitate you finding your own way.

A2: Cultivate self kindness and acceptance. This practice of loving kindness toward yourself is so important to ease the breathing that is required for facing your fears. Deep breathing is required to calm your body when it gets activated into the flight and fight mode.

A3: Sit with your guide weekly in your practice, to be able to ask questions and build your self confidence in your practice.

A4: Join a regular meditation group - preferably with a teacher you trust and who is not too controlling.

This year is the year of inclusion and acceptance of those people in your life - we want to celebrate the diverse and colourful ways of experiencing this life. I have a new Global meditation class starting January 2019 which means where ever you are on this planet, East, West, North and South, we can get together at the same moments on Zoom conference call. We can practice our mindfulness meditation together and have a regular opportunity to learn from each other and to explore further our capacity for compassionate activities and kindness towards each other.

Happy New Year for 2019, with love and appreciation Simonette