Seven Ways to Open to Insight

A full bowl is an apt symbol of being crammed with thoughts and ideas.

An empty bowl suggests openness to something new.

A space for the emergence of our own potential.

On first appearances, mindfulness practice looks like an exercise in focusing the mind. And improving concentration is, of course, part of its value. But mindfulness is not all about actively directing the mind. It also involves being receptive to whatever is happening. This is where we get to learn about ourselves and our habits. We might notice that we are speculating and worrying about things that may never happen. Or ruminating in a way that has a snowballing effect on a perceived problem. Noticing unhelpful habits may not be comfortable. But it is the first, essential step towards freeing oneself. The recognition that 'My life doesn't need to be like this. I don't need to be like this!' introduces us to the insight element of mindfulness.

In Taoist and Buddhist traditions, the image of an empty bowl symbolises receptivity. A full bowl is an apt image for a mind crammed with thoughts and ideas. An empty bowl suggests openness to our own inner world. To something new. A space for the emergence of our own potential.

Being receptive allows us to connect with our inner wisdom. A part of oneself that is not caught up with our superficial plans and urges. It is not driven by the ego. It is the 'still, small voice of calm'. A voice that we so often override.

You may see your inner wisdom working when the still, small voice says:

·         No! - including to yourself. Try not to push, or be pushed, into something that, underneath, you know will not turn out well. Remember times in your life when you stood up for yourself or others.

·         Yes! - even though a situation may be demanding. You don't need to stay small out of fear that you won't match up. Remember times in your life when you rose to a challenge.

·         Ouch! - You are out of line with your values. Maybe you believe in honesty, but hear yourself saying something that isn't true. Remember times in your life when you had the courage to be truthful, starting with yourself.

How do we practice the receptivity that allows our inner wisdom to manifest?

1.  Value being. As well as doing.

2.  Reduce input. Give social media, the internet, the radio, the news a rest for a while.

3.  Enjoy a simple physical task requiring little thought. Gardening. Sweeping the kitchen floor. Whatever.

4. Allow unscheduled time. Sit down and gaze out of the window - muse.

5.  Feed the soul. Engage with culture that has meaning for you and leads towards the good. Even if it requires a little more effort.

6. Reflect on life. Allow the mind to open towards anything of significance that happens. Gently notice the thoughts and feelings around it. See if any new understanding pops up.

7. In meditation, allow times when you aren't focusing attention on any object. A few quiet, undirected minutes at the beginning and end of a practice works well.

Make space for the still, small voice that is your inner wisdom. Something that, in your own judgement, you discover that you can trust.