Does this sound familiar? Many of my clients complain that the challenge of running a business while making time for family and friends is exhausting. They say they want more balance, yet can’t seem to find a way to make it happen. They feel overwhelmed by the demands of their career and busy lives. Though they realize they function best when rested and rejuvenated, they fear that if they take time off, their business will slack off.

We read self help books, take classes, take on new employees, plea with our partners, hire organizers, and look for someone or something to solve our dilemma, while dreaming of our next vacation. What we fail to recognize is that there are no tips or solutions out there. The answer lies within.

Over the years I've learned many practices to help me - and my clients - go within. One of my mentors, Byron Katie, is a master of what she calls ‘Awakened Activity’. Lee Glickstein, founder of Speaking Circles®, teaches Relational Presence. Both methods reveal a way to be present with whatever is arising, without trying to fix or change anything.

When we can be with what is arising without trying, we ground into the moment, and create space to interrupt the habitual cycle of reacting in an unconscious and painful way. Every time we pause and ground, we actually replenish ourselves, as if we’re taking a mini-vacation in the moment. In this way, we break the cycle of giving out more than we take in. When a crisis does occur, we can respond with fullness and resiliency – rather than depletion or burnout.

Here is a practice to try out. It’s based on DreamShifting, a simple four step process I’ve created for my clients, to help them shift from the inside out.

1. Wake up: If you are feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed, reactive or out of control, PAUSE. Your body is telling you to wake up and listen.

2. Become aware: Ask yourself, “What am I telling myself about this situation? How is the story I’m telling making me feel and respond? Does this response feel familiar, and is this response making the situation better or worse?”

3. Shift: Breathe and consider the possibility that there is NOTHING to do, except be with what is arising without trying.

4. Take action: Notice if a new response naturally arises from within you when you’re not striving to fix or change the situation.

It’s helpful to bring curiosity and gentleness to this practice. You might want to begin with a situation that is only mildly uncomfortable and see how you do. Then try it out on something more challenging. Do your best to not judge yourself as you become aware of your reactions. Feel free to share with me your questions and discoveries.

~Linda

Infinite Love Radio is hosted by Michelle Morovaty, an intuitive spiritual healer, teacher and writer. It airs on Fridays from 4:00 - 5:00 PM (PST) and rebroadcasts throughout the week on www.webtalkradio.net.

Highlighted on the February 8th show, Linda shared with Michelle how she has used spiritual principles such as The Four Agreements® to face and overcome significant life challenges, obstacles and adversity, so she can mentor and inspire others to transform their businesses and lives. If you have never met Linda or heard her present, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the power of her work.

To hear this interview click here.

Led by Stefan Laeng-Gilliatt

In 1980 Sensory Awareness changed my life. It helped me to reawaken my childlike curiosity and reconnect with the pleasure of being in my body. Stefan is a brilliant and gifted teacher of this work. I highly recommend his workshop to anyone who wants to be more present and in the moment. If you are new to the work and would like to get a taste of it before you sign up for a whole weekend, come to the introductory class on Friday night.

An introduction to Sensory Awareness
Friday, April 25, 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Hari's RIE Studio, 2901 Ocean Park Blvd.
Suite 121, Santa Monica, CA
Introductory Cost: $10

Sensory Awareness is an invitation to be alive. Through simple explorations with everyday movements, playful experiments with gravity, quiet presence and lively interactions with others, we rediscover what it means to be fully alive and engaged.

Weekend Workshop
Saturday, April 26 - Sunday, April 27
9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Hari's RIE Studio, 2901 Ocean Park Blvd.
Suite 121, Santa Monica, CA
Cost: $175

Every movement brings us in touch with gravity, this force that reminds us of another great presence, that of the earth. Most of the time, though, we move on the earth quite unconsciously, and fight her pull. In this Sensory Awareness workshop, we will respond to the call of gravity with respect and presence, supported by the firm ground of the earth. From this renewed connection can spring a long-forgotten lightness of being.

For more information and to register,
click HERE, or email Stefan