Sometimes we get into a rut and find ourselves constantly tired or depressed, so that even taking time off or resting doesn’t seem to change the way we feel. The reason is that we have stopped paying attention to our feelings and are no longer listening to our heart. Our inner child wants to be heard and do what makes it happy; it wants to burn up its energy and not burn out.
For this exercise, you will need to meditate. Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed so you can relax and listen to your inner voice. When comfortable, begin by taking deep breaths; focus on the motion of your chest and completely relax. Ask these questions of your heart: What do you love to do? What do you want to do today? Now open your treasure chest and listen to the answers.
Be open to whatever your feelings tell you. If you need help to accomplish what your heart tells you to do, ask for spiritual direction, too. Your answers will be revealed by how your heart feels, not what your mind thinks. It may tell you things that surprise you, so be ready to begin the journey of transformation.
Excerpted with permission from 101 Exercises for the Soul: Simple Practices for a Healthy Body, Mind, and Spirit © 2010 Dr. Bernie Siegel. Printed with permission of New World Library, Novato, CA. www.newworldlibrary.com or 800-972-6657 ext. 52.