It is the privilege of wisdom to listen. Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., physician, writer About twenty years ago when doing some deep inner work, I became aware that I talked a lot, an awful lot, often reactively anxious, sometimes because I thought I needed to say something about everything, sometimes not even breathing. I decidedContinue reading “Listening Uncritically”
Author Archives: Jane Meryll
Knowing Myself
Knowing MyselfKnowing others is intelligence,Knowing yourself is true wisdom.Mastering others is strength,Mastering yourself is true power. Excerpt from Tao Te Ching, verse 33, translated by Stephen Mitchell There are numerous translations of the Tao. I own several that I’ve been reading daily for years. I love the simplicity of Zen wisdom. Lao Tzu’s principles forContinue reading “Knowing Myself”
Meditation
Half hour of meditation is essential except when you are very busy. Then a full hour is needed. Francis de Sales, 16th/17th-century bishop and spiritual leader You get the picture. I believe slowing down when overwhelmed is the mindful way for less stress and more success. That’s why I teach you how. Happy meditating!
Benefits of Smiling
Alice: “There’s no use trying. One can’t believe impossible things.” The Queen: “I dare say you haven’t had much practice. . . . Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland. A close friend shared this, challenging me to start each day with a little moreContinue reading “Benefits of Smiling”
Building New Habits
If you keep doing what you’ve always been doing you’ll get what you’ve always gotten. When I first heard this, my body felt an impact. As a pianist who practiced for perfection, no mistakes, artful execution, it struck me clearly that this could apply to thinking or behavior I want to change. Building new habits,Continue reading “Building New Habits”
Practice
Practice means waiting without anxiety. Patience with all things but first with yourself. Francis de Sales, French Bishop Practice, purposeful repetition, makes what we do feel effortless. One of the root words for practice means “training oneself.” Playing the piano well means daily practice. Feeling less stressed means practicing relaxation, maybe sitting meditation. Eliminating agitationContinue reading “Practice”