As Lisa and I continue to learn and leverage embodiment practices with each other, our team and our clients, we have LOVED the R.A.I.N. practice by Tara Brach.
Tara Brach is part of the faculty for our IMBA program that we are taking with our Coralus colleagues.
We think you’ll find this practice very valuable during the holidays as family and friends gather.
Most of the time, it is a treasure to be with those we love and, yet, sometimes the shifting energies, diverse personalities and old dynamics create stress.
In order to make the most of these precious times and to truly savour the memory-making moments, we invite you to try this short, simple practice whenever you are feeling the tensions rise this holiday season.
R - recognize - the first step is always noticing that something isn’t right and not suppressing, numbing or shoving down the feeling. What emotions or feelings are you noticing? Consider naming them or acknowledging their presence. It may be anxiety, anger, disappointment, sadness or something else. For me, resentment is often the first indication that something is wrong.
A - allow - to be with what ‘is’ and know that these feelings have purpose. All human emotions belong. Emotions are neither good nor bad, they just ‘are’. Give them space. Let them guide you inward where you can meet them and hold them gently and without judgement.
I - investigate - Where are these feelings in your body? Common places are the belly, chest or throat but you may feel them anywhere. Ask yourself why you are feeling this way. What is this emotion telling you about yourself, others or the world? If you can, describe the feeling (hot, cold, tingling, tight, pressure etc.)
N - nurture - this is the most important step for me as I often forget to be self-compassionate and self-accepting. It is important to nurture this feeling and ask yourself what you need. Let the love into your body and know that these vulnerable parts of yourself may be asking for love and care or other unmet needs to be fulfilled.
When resentment rears its head in my life, I know that it is an invitation to be more resolute with my boundaries. I’ve learned to trust that the feelings are leading me to know myself better and to take care of myself.
In truth, no one else will respect my boundaries if I cannot honour them myself.
Giving myself the self-respect, self-love and space that I deserve, ultimately, makes me more loving and present with my family and friends.
As Tara Brach recommends, this practice can be done in a few minutes or a few hours, depending on the time you decide to dedicate. She also invites a quite time “after the RAIN” to sit with all that emerged.
We hope you find it valuable as you meet all your roles and responsibilities this holiday season with grace and love.