The quote of the day is:
“Returning to the source is stillness, which is the way of nature. The way of nature is unchanging. Knowing constancy is insight.” (Lao Tzu)
In a world that often seems to spin faster each day, finding moments of stillness can feel like a luxury we can’t afford. Yet, ancient wisdom tells us that it is precisely this stillness that leads us back to our true selves. Lao Tzu, the revered Chinese philosopher and author of the Tao Te Ching, invites us to explore the profound connection between stillness, nature, and insight. In this blog post, we’ll delve into how embracing the unchanging aspects of nature can illuminate our path to self-understanding and peace.
As I write this, I recall times in my life when I felt so rushed and busy that the very idea of connecting with stillness seemed ludicrous. Perhaps you’ve felt something similar—a thought like, “It’s okay for them to say that,” followed by even more frustration about the lack of time to do everything, or a nagging sense that something was wrong with you. If that sounds familiar, know that you’re not alone, and there’s no need to pile on extra self-judgment or criticism.
But here’s the thing: you’re still reading this post, which tells me that a part of you recognizes the importance of stillness—even if it’s a deep longing to experience it. So, let’s explore what that stillness truly is. Have you ever noticed how peace can emerge in the brief moments between tasks? Or are you dismissing those moments as unimportant, or simply not noticing them at all when they happen?
I’ll attempt to describe that stillness, knowing that words often can’t fully capture the experience. My encouragement to you is to look beyond the words and see what resonates with you.
Descriptions like “returning to one’s true self” or “connecting with your fundamental nature” might sound grandiose. In my experience, there’s a profound beauty in this, but there’s also an ordinariness—it’s our natural state, even if we’ve forgotten it. Think about the serenity of a sleeping baby or the calm presence of a content animal. It’s that sense you get when basic needs are met, and there’s nothing pressing to do or be.
Stillness isn’t about emptying your mind or achieving some lofty spiritual goal. It’s about recognizing that beneath the constant stream of thoughts and the busyness of life, there’s a place of peace that’s always available, at any moment we can just drop back into that space. It’s not something you have to create; or even do. It’s something you return to – maybe you’ve noticed that feeling when you wake up, before any thinking kicks in about your busy day.
For me, one description I use is it’s like I’m sat in a park on a sunny day just lazily watching the comings and going around me. Imagine the warmth of the sun on your skin as you sit, observing the world without rush or obligation but without overthinking. If there’s something that becomes obvious I need to do, I naturally do it.
So, how can you begin to reconnect with this stillness? It might be as simple as pausing for a few moments during your day to take a deep breath and notice the world around you without judgment. Maybe it’s allowing yourself to sit quietly with a cup of tea, or taking a walk in nature and feeling the ground beneath your feet.
You may already know where and when you are in a habit of already reconnecting with that stillness. I’ll mention that there will be new things that just occur to you in that moment to do that you wouldn’t have thought of in advance. I think that just points to the fact that stillness is available in any moment, and it doesn’t have to be accessible by just a set route or set of activities.
Personally, I suggest that just noticing and listening makes this so much easier. Remember, there’s no time limit. If you start judging yourself for not achieving stillness quickly, gently let those thoughts pass and offer yourself kindness instead.
Conclusion:
Remember, stillness is not a luxury reserved for the few; it’s a natural part of who we are. By embracing it, even in small ways, we align ourselves with the unchanging way of nature and open the door to profound insight and peace. Embracing stillness, even briefly, can bring profound peace. Why not take a moment now to pause and notice what you notice about reconnecting with the stillness within you?
About Jen Waller
Jen Waller is a transformative coach dedicated to empowering individuals to get out of their own way and make a meaningful impact in the world. With an impactful, nurturing coaching style, Jen supports clients in unlocking their potential and achieving their goals. As an experienced coach and trainer, she guides clients from self-doubt to success.
Discover how Jen can support you to get out of your own way here.
