Combine learning (study) with practical application (practice) to work multiple parts of the mind simultaneously, allowing insights to be reincorporated and wisdom to integrate more deeply.
Develop self-awareness through meditation to notice and accentuate joy, and to reflect on the fleeting nature of moments, encouraging you to be present rather than distracted by devices.
Engage in meditation practice to develop the ability to ‘zone in’ on present moments, which can immeasurably amplify the experience of joy and sweetness in life.
To overcome disconnection, prioritize spending time together and giving full attention, allowing these efforts to naturally foster connection and strengthen relationships.
Make dedicated one-on-one time to interact with loved ones, as interrupting daily routines creates new space for different ways of relating and building unique connections.
To foster new connections or deepen existing ones, proactively plan a change of scenery, such as a trip, to interrupt daily patterns and create new ways of relating.
When someone expresses difficult emotions, acknowledge and validate their feelings by asking them how they feel and affirming that it’s okay to feel that way, then gently redirect to the positive.
To be more present, focus on physical sensations like your feet on the ground, the air temperature on your skin, and the movement in your face, allowing your senses and mind to open and meet the world.
For meditation, rest your attention on your body as a whole, without fixating on specific areas, allowing your entire body to fill your awareness and soak up your attention.
During meditation or when trying to be present, if your attention wanders, gently bring it back to your focus point (e.g., the body) and reconnect without judgment.
To deepen connection, bring to mind someone you wish to spend more time with, and keep them in your awareness during meditation, even if it feels contrived, to foster a sense of closeness.
Allow gentle attention towards a loved one, even in thought, to forge a real sense of connection, trusting that your wish to spend more time with them can deepen your bond.
To improve presence, aim to increase it by a small percentage (e.g., 10%) by returning your attention to your breath and the immediate physical sensations of the moment.
When seeking connection, especially with children, sometimes sitting quietly and allowing them to approach on their own can be more effective than forcing interaction.
To help a child fall asleep, especially if they struggle with bedtime, engage them in vigorous physical activity like ‘wind sprints’ to tire them out before settling down.
To raise your energy levels, try straightening your spine, opening your chest, and raising your chin, allowing your physical posture to positively influence your mental state.
Make small adjustments to personal habits, such as grooming, to improve interactions and perceptions from others, especially children, as this can positively impact their willingness to connect.