Intuition as a Practice


“Praying is talking to God, intuition is listening to God.” The Writings of Florence Scovell Shinn

Intuition is a form of listening that requires not only being mindful, but it also requires that you listen is a way that is relaxed, trusting, and open. This is a developmental process of being in the "here and now".  We can begin by teaching ourselves to be quiet, to let go of what we think is the answer, to admit that we may not know, and wait for that moment where an unfiltered thought enters into our conscious and we know it is truth from the physiological response that it elicits. There is a feeling of rightness, an "Aha" and sometimes the thought "what, really?" will come into our consciousness. What we have to do in that moment is not doubt that the information or the answer to our question is correct. It’s beyond thinking, beyond our conditioning and beyond any type of knowledge that we have memorized or experienced. When we engage in the intuitive process we are connecting to God and giving ourselves over to the wisdom that comes from that. 

For example, when someone comes to see me for a session I realize when they arrive that there is going to be a combination of knowledge that is conveyed from my thirty plus years of study in nutrition, and spirituality, and it’s application, but I basically don’t know what will be revealed that day from that well of knowledge or more importantly how it will be conveyed, and what other surprises will cork up in the process for that person. It could be something I have never said to anyone ever before, but it will be perfect for that moment to carry them to the next right step or understanding that they seek. I call this leaving room for God, a space that is reserved solely for those answers. I let that guide me in what is to be addressed in that session that is in alignment with their best and highest good and which they are ready to receive. This is the intuitive in action.

 

 

13 Ways to Nurture Your Spirit

“The roots of love sink down and deep and strike out far, and they are arteries that feed our lives, so we must see that they get the water and sun they need so they can nourish us.” Merle Shain, In  Hearts That We Broke Long Ago

What is your sun and water for nurturing spirit in your life and others?  

Here is  a brief list I composed that you can practice for the further development of your spiritual life:

  • Find a quiet place each day for 20 minutes to meditate.  Sit with your eyes closed in a comfortable, but upright position, and focus on a single meaningful word. When your mind wanders, come back to your word.  Increase to twice a day when you have time.
  • Set intentions for what you are wanting in your life, that will also serve the greater good. 
  • Work with affirmations to help bring your focus into living in the present and to integrate positive healing thoughts into the feeling self.
  • Practice the feeling of having gratitude for all that your life brings you until it becomes a habit. 
  • Be mindful of your language when you speak to yourself or others.  Do not use violent words.
  • Do something creative every day even if it is only for 10 minutes. This could be singing, writing, dancing, playing music or any other form of art. 
  • Go for a walk in nature at least once per week.  Take at least ten minutes during that walk to sit quietly and observe in detail one feature in nature that captures your attention. Ie. A leaf, a branch, a rock, a tree.  Allow your self to observe it in slow motion, let yourself get lost in the object and be open to a shift in your perspective about it. 
  • Spend time once a week with like- minded individuals who are also on a spiritual path. This can be at a church or with any group that meets on a regular basis.  
  • Find a way to be of service to others, as a volunteer or with your family or in your work or all three.
  • Read books on spirituality and growth to help you understand the process and help you feel supported in your journey.
  • Work with someone who can guide you through the process. There can be many twists and turns and it helps to have someone there when you get stuck. 
  • Take some classes like yoga, meditation, tai chi, chi gong, toning, etc., they help to slow down the mind and enhance your ability to meditate.
  • Seek help with your physical health. Spirit moves more easily in a body that is healthy and full of vitality.