In her recent talk on trust, Tara Brach, clinical psychologist and founder of the Insight Meditation Society of Washington DC says, "The reason that we long to belong is because the truth is that we do belong." Coming home to a sense of belonging is coming home to the truth of who we really are. She also comments on the fact that research shows that when we imagine ourselves in a situation of belonging, our brain responds the exact same way as it does when we are actually in a situation in which we feel a sense of belonging. So by spending time each day devoting a little attention to belonging, you are changing your brain to be more aligned with the truth of who you are.
This week's belonging reminder:
I recommend this entire 2-part talk on trust and belonging. In part 1, there is a wonderful little "belonging scan" beginning about two minutes into the talk.
This week's practice suggestions:
- Practice the belonging scan every day this week.
- Imagine your ideal place of belonging in as much detail as possible. Use writing, drawing, painting, collage, or whatever means of expression speaks to you in order to connect with this place.