May you hold yourself with loving kindness and compassion today, in this moment, and always.
After reading the recent news on COVID-19, I am simultaneously fascinated and deeply concerned by America’s initial response to this global health concern. A former Fulbright in public health, I am shocked at the lack of availability and access to accurate and timely diagnostic testing, the original myopic and overly stringent CDC test guidelines, and the lack of sufficient support of healthcare workers on the front lines. Timing and correct diagnostic capabilities are critical when it comes to mitigating a potential pandemic. Lives are on the line.
Thankfully, through my Qigong practice I can quickly recognize and return to my center, utilize the power of discernment instead of judgement, and transform sadness into greater compassion. When responding to health crisis, I have found that for both myself and in my work with health care professionals, it is helpful to offer practices that empower people to quickly center themselves, transform their emotions, and re-frame their experience.
In Qigong, there is a phrase: Yi Dao, Qi Dao which roughly translates to where mind/consciousness goes, energy flows. One of the goals of Qigong is to train the nature of the mind and in doing so, harness the power of the mind to direct and amplify our energy. Scattered, distracted thoughts or negative, disharmonious emotions have the effect of weakening our energy reserve and our capabilities. By taking a moment to breath and re-focus our intention and attention, we can consciously redirect and free up energy to to effectively respond to the challenges encountered and not burnout. When we do so, we realize that we are not powerless in the face of a pandemic.
As we encounter the unknown of COVID-19 and the waves of fear, distrust, and discord roll to shore, let us remember our practices of grounding, centering and neutral compassion - all of which foster equanimity and deep inner peace. It allows us to respond from a place of greater capacity and wisdom.
Practice kindness to the self if one gets caught in the waves of disharmony. Detach from the swirling of fear/anxiety and dive deep to the inner stillness within and take a moment to breathe - just one conscious breath is all that is required to rest and reset.
Let us respond mindfully from inner stability and not be caught in reaction to the news or to each other. In this age of connectivity, voices of wisdom, discernment and constructive criticism are necessary for a functioning, healthy society. Your voice, coming from a place of inner harmony, may be needed now more than ever.
May we remember that within every challenge there are opportunities (e.g., growth, leadership and kindness). This is a global issue that has the power to unite us in our very vulnerability and our greatest strength - our humanity. Let’s put the best of humanity forward, and keep a lookout for those opportunities. In the spirit of opportunity, I will be offering a free online Qigong sound healing event. Click on “learn more” below to register!