I’m in beautiful, albeit very wet, Okinawa, visiting family.
In Okinawa, the vibe is relaxed and deliberate. The people here are deeply connected to the island's natural rhythms. Fruit and vegetables are available only when in season. They are not bothered by or complain about the constant rain and do not appear to be barred from engaging in many outdoor activities. They simply adjust.
Since arriving, I have experienced the tail end of a typhoon, tsunami alerts, thunderstorms, constant rain, landslide warnings, and other emergency alerts. The Okinawans take these in stride, remaining connected to the island’s natural rhythm.
Our emotions are like the weather here, and we, too, can experience typhoons or thunderstorms, followed by constant rain and landslides. If we adopt the Okinawan way of life, we can flow with nature rather than fight it, knowing that the sun will appear again when the time is right.
During a Reiki session that my daughter-in-law generously gifted me, the practitioner, Roksana from The Yoga Tree, led me through a breath and visualization practice, helping me slow down and connect more deeply to my energy and to the relaxed, peaceful energy of Okinawa.
I’d like to share a variation of the breath and visualization practice that Roksana led me through. You can use this practice any time you need a moment of calm, during stressful periods, or even as part of your daily routine. Practicing regularly, for example each morning or evening, may help you feel more grounded and connected over time. Here is a step-by-step guide, so you can try it yourself:
1. Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Close your eyes if you wish.
2. Bring your attention to your breath. Notice the sensation of the air flowing in and out of your body. Do this for several breaths, letting the rhythm become steady and natural.
3. As you continue, try to gradually deepen your breath. Feel your body relax, and your mind become more in tune with your inner world with each inhale and exhale.
4. Now, bring to mind a relationship or interaction you want to explore. Imagine you are observing it from above, as though you have a bird's-eye view.
5. With this broader perspective, sense or see the energetic exchange between yourself and the other person. Notice how the interaction feels without judgment.
6. Ask yourself: What do I receive from this connection, even if it sometimes feels difficult? Allow any answers or sensations to arise gently. If strong or uncomfortable emotions come up, know that you can pause the practice, take a few calming breaths, or reach out to someone you trust for support. Go at your own pace, and be kind to yourself throughout the process.
7. Spend a moment with whatever comes up, letting the practice help soften the energy and support a more open view.
This step-by-step approach made it easier for me to connect deeply and feel supported by the practice, and I hope it offers you the same. If you feel comfortable, I invite you to share any insights or experiences you have with this practice with the group. Sharing can help us connect and support each other as we learn from one another's journeys.
With love, light and gratitude from Okinawa
