The last several years have been quite an epic journey. Collectively we have experienced things that had the power to dramatically shift our reality and perspective. For many, these experiences and shifts have been quite painful and triggered old scars and created new wounds.
In a recent podcast between internationally recognized psychologist and meditation teacher Tara Brach and Neuropsychologist Dan Siegel, they discuss the themes of Siegel’s new book Intraconnected. In their exchange they explore the concept of identity and the healing power of widening one’s sense of identity from a focus on the self only, to an identity that includes how we are woven together to create a collective consciousness.
Intraconnection represents a high level of self-awareness leading to a strong relationship with the self, allowing for the self to show up authentically in relationship with others. In this shift from focus on the self as an individual to expand to how self weaves into the collective, we create a sense of connection leading to higher levels of compassion, understanding, and acceptance. This fosters a sense of community where people are more naturally drawn to care for one another, rather than compete for power and resources without regard to the potential harm this drive inflicts on others.
When we go through traumatic experiences it can create a barrier to connection. The fear of uncertainty and drive to protect ourselves can build walls between us and fuel the consciousness of division. In this divide we lose sight of how deeply we truly are connected to one another. To find our way back to the web of connection, awareness is key. When we slow down enough, through mindfulness practices, we can explore the space of pure awareness. Pure awareness is the ability to cultivate a calm and quiet mind. The mind is often filled with rapid fire thought processes that pull our attention away from the present moment. Through pure awareness we can release the hold of constant mind chatter and be in the present moment. This gives us the opportunity to tap into the true nature of our humanity through a clear, unfiltered lens. When we can quiet the constant feedback loops of thought and judgement, we give ourselves the opportunity to tune into the expansive energy that weaves us all together.
When starting out a new mindfulness practice it is ideal to start small. When we enter that space of pure awareness it can trigger the fear of uncertainty. This can be enough to stop us from even trying. Taking ‘baby steps’ helps ease us into finding this quiet space within. If practices that quiet the mind and connect you to your body are new to you, try starting with just a minute or two of focused deep breathing. One minute is more than zero minutes and it lays the foundation to steadily build a robust daily practice.
In the Seigal and Brach podcast discussion, Segal suggests that as we soften into pure awareness we may find that uncertainty can be transformed into freedom and possibility. This has the power to shift our relationship with uncertainty, allowing for more ease with the unknown. Comfort with uncertainty allows us to live with more openness, curiosity and expanded awareness. In this expanded awareness, we can tap into our ability to cultivate more love and compassion for ourselves and others.
When we look at all that is happening in the world, we can clearly observe the need for more love, compassion, acceptance, and openness. We cannot control the behavior and actions of others but we can make choices about how we show up for ourselves and others. When we seek to connect and understand rather than over-individuate, control, and harshly judge, we invite others into the opportunity for connection and understanding.
When we make the practice of awareness and connection a priority for ourselves that shift we create on the individual level vibrates out and impacts on those around us. The more we each choose a path of awareness, connection, and compassion, the greater the shift to the rest of humanity. We all have the power to be a catalyst for change and step into leadership roles to foster community and connection.
When we are led by people who are deeply self-aware and understand the value and power of intraconnection we become a collective that is supported and nurtured and working together to uplift humanity and care for our planet.
For support in cultivating practices that nurture growth, compassion and connection schedule a 20-minute Discovery Call to explore if coaching fits your needs.
