Just Sitting

Sitting is one of my favorite activities. I love to sit, sometimes with a cup of tea, sometimes with a glass of water and sometimes with nothing at all. I often sit on a chair by my window. I have a simple gray chair set up by a window. It is my “sitting chair.” 

During this time, I do not do much of anything. I sit and look out the window. What is interesting is that often I notice that I actually do not really see what is outside of my window for some time. Typically, I first notice my mind. During this time of just sitting, I see my mind moving. I can see the thoughts that are passing and flowing through it, sometimes fast and sometimes slow. It is only after I have watched my thoughts for some time that I notice that, naturally, my mind begins to slow down and my focus shifts to what is outside the window. 

I love this moment. I love noticing the moment when I start to notice what is outside. I notice the trees and whether the leaves are blowing from the wind. I notice the birds sitting on the rooftops across from my home. I notice the clouds. 

Then I start to hear the sounds. It amazes me how easy it is to actually miss sounds. They can be tuned out without even realizing. Again, this is a wonderful moment, when sounds are no longer tuned out. The sounds might not always be pleasant, but I would rather notice them and be aware of them than tune them out. 

Finally, I start to notice my body. I notice how it feels to be sitting in the chair. If I am holding a cup of tea or water in my hands, I notice the temperature and feel of the cup. I notice my feet and the feel of my socks on my toes. I feel my body breathing. I might feel my heartbeat. I notice my body. How often and how easy it is to move through the day without even noticing the body, without feeling the body.

This entire process can take seconds, minutes or maybe even hours. 

Just sitting is a wonderful thing to do.

Thank you for being here,

Morrissa

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Disclaimer:

The information in this post is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. The practices shared here reflect personal experience, and may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any medical or mental health concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your routine. The author assumes no responsibility or liability for any outcomes resulting from the use of this information.