I love the practice of slowing by paying attention to our senses. This is a well documented mindfulness tool for bringing us back from anxiety into the moment. I have written more about that here.
But it is also a great way to become more aware of what is going on around us that we might otherwise simply speed past.
A gift for the senses.
At this Advent season, for me this is about paying attention to the small things that bring joy and remind me of my own skin, my own body that I occupy, the wonders of the world around us that still exist despite the craziness.
Twinkling lights.
Scents of citrus, cinnamon, spice.
The touch of fur or woolen mittens.
Hearing again carols and songs that remind us of more connected Christmases past and give us hope for Christmases to come.
And so much to taste that brings joy!
These are simple things perhaps for us, but luxuries for many in different circumstances.
This for me is to be a spring board to gratitude this Advent. As I notice and enjoy simple things with my senses, I am practicing sitting with those things and expressing gratitude. For me, my faith prompts me to thank my Maker. But whether you are a person of faith or not, we can always find things to be thankful for.
And as an Advent gift For the Senses, I leave you with this beautiful poem:
May the touch of your skin
Register the beauty
Of the otherness
That surrounds you
May your listening be attuned
To the deeper silence
Where sound is honed
To bring distance home.
May the fragrance
Of a breathing meadow
Refresh your heart
And remind you you are
A child of the earth.
And when you partake
Of food and drink,
May your taste quicken
To the gift and sweetness
That flows from the earth.
May your inner eye
See through the surfaces
And glean the real presence
Of everything that meets you
May your soul beautify
The desire of your eyes
That you might glimpse
The infinity that hides
In the simple sights
That seem worn
To your usual eyes.
‘For the Senses’ by John O’Donohue (1956-2008)
From “To Bless the space between us”