Have you turned to spirituality to help you in a time of crisis: serious or terminal illness, accident, break-up of a relationship, unemployed and searching for a good job.
Whatever the occasion, talking with your Higher Power can have a major positive influence on your mental and spiritual health.
It enables people to turn to spirituality in times of crisis. It also allows them to give thanks for our many blessings we often take for granted, like our families, our jobs, our friends, our health, our food, our freedoms, the air we breath, and our safety.
Last week, a young client shared with me how he talks with God on a regular basis.
If you haven’t prayed in a long time, or never, please give it a try. Today at lunch and supper, give our creator thanks for our food and the family and friends who love us.
You may ask, “What is this meditation stuff?” The dictionary defines meditation as, “the practise of concentration focus upon a sound, object, visualization, the breath, movement or attention itself in order to increase awareness of the present moment, reduce stress, promote relaxation and enhance personal and spiritual growth.”
For example you could meditate on the following: Ten Indian Commandments.
1. Treat the earth and all that dwell within with respect.
2. Remain close to the Great Spirit.
3. Show great respect for your fellow beings.
4. Work together for the benefit of all mankind.
5. Give assistance and kindness wherever needed.
6. Do what you know to be right.
7. Look after the well-being of mind and body.
8. Dedicate a share of your efforts to the greater good.
9. Be truthful and honest at all times.
10. Take full responsibility for your actions.
Clinical evidence has confirmed that meditation is one of the better therapies for substance dependence and abuse, ulcers, chronic pain, panic disorders, and an adjunctive therapy for the prevention of cardiac arrest, arthritis, cancer, insomnia, migraine, and prevention of stroke.
Dennis Nowoselsky is a mental health counsellor with the Mamawetan Churchill River Health Region. He is based in La Ronge.
