Why do we need orienting?
We live in societies that are too stressful for us (well, most of us). Too many noises, too many people, too many lights and things to do. Too much in general. And this creates constant stress in our bodies (and soul).
Sadly, we don’t even know it until we’re older, and we start to have so many health issues. We don’t realise it because we’ve grown up in those cultures, it’s all we’ve ever known.
Don’t get me wrong, some things in our society are wonderful. We’ve progressed so much. But our lifestyles are stressful. As living beings, we shouldn’t be “doing” all the time. We are meant to be in harmony with our environment. Not in this constant battle to change everything around us.
One thing that happens with that constant hustle is that we lose awareness of what surrounds us. We laser focus on our task, and we forget the world around us, we tune out in a way.
And I get it, sometimes it is necessary. But again, we are part of an ecosystem. We can’t thrive without that connection.
So, what can we do about it? There is a simple technique called “orienting”. I’ve learned it through Irene Lyon’s work (I highly recommend you to look her up, I’ll link her webpage at the end*).
What is it exactly?
It is the practise to bring your (curious) attention to your surroundings. In other words, to look around you (where ever you are, there is no specific setting needed). It is a way to signal to your nervous system that you are safe.
That’s it. As simple as that. You can try it whenever you want. For as long as you want. The more you integrate it into your daily life, the more you’ll feel the results.
Don’t forget, a regulated nervous system is essential for a healthy and happy life.
Now, back to my specialty, art and mandalas. How can this relate to orienting?
Well, hanging something you like in your place can be a reminder to look up, to look around you. I have some artwork I really like in my home, and I’ve realised that it makes me pause throughout the day. I stop and look at them and by doing that, I look around me “in search” of them all. Does it make sense?
Thank you for reading. 🙂
*As promised: irenelyon.com