A Candle Meditation To Calm Emotions

In the past week, I’ve been feeling a lot of emotions. Thus, I have performed this candle meditation. Why? The events of the Capitol Insurrection and its aftermath have preoccupied my thoughts with a lot of anger. I’ve got a lot of feels that need redirection from time to time.

My family and I have expressed the outrage we feel on our podcast (Episode 126 ).  I’m sick of people supporting Trump and his…everything. News reports indicate a deeper threat to our government from Trump’s supporters that could include members of Congress. And let’s not forget we still have a PANDEMIC infecting and killing people every day. It’s enough to make even the most sanguine of individuals a nervous wreck.

Take A Moment To Focus

Inspired by others, I’ve encouraged people to care for themselves. Step away from the madness for a moment. Yes. There is a lot of information we need to know to be informed, stay safe, and make smart decisions. But it’s even more important to take a breath, watch something else, talk about anything other than Trump, the Insurrection, Covid 19, the MAGA cult, etc.

Not to mention, we do have some things to celebrate. Such as Kamala Harris as our first female Vice-President. We have the right to honor our incoming president (who won in a secure, fair election) with an age-old ritual and jubilant gala (such as it can be online).

So, as we move into next week’s festivities (and many offer prayers, rituals, and spells of protection over the events) I offer a Candle Meditation. Just something easy to do when you need a chance to stop, breathe, and release or redirect the feels. And feel free to use it for any occasion. I’ve made this basic and generic. Tailor it to your needs.

Candle Meditation

This meditation is easy and can be done at a moment’s notice. If traveling, you can use a battery-operated candle if in a location where any kind of fire is not permitted. You can spend five minutes or however long you feel is necessary. If you are at home and want to add ambiance, play quiet music or nature sounds. Light some incense and dim the lights.

Needed:

• Candle (birthday, taper, spell, jar —whatever works or you have on hand) I prefer white for meditation but any color will do.
• Matches or lighter

Sit in a comfortable position. You can be in a chair with the candle on a table or sit on the floor with the candle in front of you.

Light the candle.

For 5 Minute Meditation

Take five deep breaths. You can use the technique I shared in my previous post.

Look into the center of the flame. It’s okay to blink your eyes as needed.

Breathe normally.

If there is something that is not useful to you, release or allow it to diminish. Otherwise, exist within the moment. Allow your breathing to bring calmness.

When ready, wiggle fingers and toes. Open your eyes and go on about your day.

For Longer Meditation

As you do this, pay attention to how you are feeling in your body. Acknowledge discomfort if you cannot alleviate it by adjusting the position and move on. Take your time and be aware of your space. Sink into your body. Exist within the moment.

Take five more deep breaths.

Observe the flame and acknowledge it.

Examine your feelings. Reflect on them. Is there anything that you need to embrace that will aid you? Can it be transformed into useful or helpful action? Is there anything you need to release? When you are ready, allow the flame to assist you with releasing or transforming.

Take five more deep breaths. Return to normal breathing, exist within the moment allowing calmness to infuse your mind and body.

When ready, wiggle fingers and toes. Open your eyes and go on about your day.