Midlife Shaman: Maria da Silva
Do you have a morning ritual?
As a shaman, I definitely do, seeking to create an intentional beginning to each day. For me, prayer, meditation and intention are my morning ritual guide words.
4 Steps To Include Into Your Morning Ritual:
There is no right or wrong way to arise. But most would agree there is a right and wrong way to show up for life. Having a morning ritual creates an interconnectedness between these two. If how we start the day becomes how we live the day, how do you want to begin?
“Having a morning ritual creates an interconnectedness between these two.”
1. Stop Before You Go:
Creating a morning ritual shows a multitude of benefits, like improved mood and reduced stress according to science-based research. Confidence and productivity are boosted as well. We feel more in control because we have decided to take control: by choosing how and when our day begins.
I often hear: But I don’t have time in the morning! How long is this morning ritual thing? As short or long as you want to make it; the trick is to pause. Yes, an intentional pause. The exact opposite of going right to emails and social media.
Your first moments of the day set a tone for your body, mind and soul.
2. Pause To Pray:
Meister Eckhart said, “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is ‘Thank You’ it will be enough.” Pray from your heart. What if you heart could speak, what would it say? Say that now with your total being.
“Meditation is the exact opposite of checking your phone or computer.”
3. Meditate A Moment:
Meditaton is silence and going within. Place your hand over your heart. Breathe. Keep it short or long. Nothing to do or undo. Meditation is the exact opposite of checking your phone or computer. It is listening within rather than going outside. (Plenty of time for that later.)
4. Set Your Intention:
Intention rules. Set your intention for the day. Keep it simple. Say it aloud. Or write it down. How do you want to feel at the end of the day? What is your vision or dream for your day? Start silently walking toward that dream or vision now.
These four steps: stop, prayer, meditation and intention are like getting showered and dressed, but inwardly. You are now cleansed from yesterday and beginning anew – just like a scrumptious morning shower – and ready to begin a new day.
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About the Author:
Maria da Silva is a practicing shaman, writer and traveler who lives in Plymouth, Massachusetts and travels frequently to her home islands of the Azores. The founder of Wise Shaman Within, she is bringing peace, healing, and light to the world one client and one workshop at a time. Maria provides individual client sessions and also facilitates workshops in both the USA and Portugal. Visit her website: Wise Shaman Within.
