We can train our brains to relax and trust in times of uncertainty
W
hen time slows down, it’s time to slow down. Oh sure, we may still be busy. But it’s hard to plan beyond a very short window of time. Who knows what will be or when it will be? We’re oddly trapped in the present.
We’re not totally unfamiliar with present-time consciousness. After all, we live such a day every single week when we immerse ourselves in the peace and stillness of Shabbos. Shabbos has taught us to stop, rest, and trust in Hashem. Now, during the suddenly present-time every day, let’s dive more deeply into this same lesson.
We don’t always enjoy immersing in present-moment focus. When we’re not distracted by living (moving, eating, talking, doing), we’re faced with our selves, the various parts of us who bubble to the surface with feelings and issues, particularly when we’re about to fall asleep, or when we’re already asleep.
Sometimes we can hear what our internal worriers are saying. Other times, we can feel the effect of their sentiments on our body: agitation, rapid heartbeat, tense muscles, physical aches and pains, sensations of panic, or other symptoms of stress. These are often strong enough to actually wake us up one or more times a night, or rouse us way too early in the morning.
Create a free account to keep reading.