Contemplative practice
Contemplative practice exists in the shared space between cultures, containing within it essential elements of nurturing, healing relationships with the self and others as a foundation for well-being. Contemplative practice includes processes like mindfulness and meditation, and extends beyond to encompass more, like compassion and embodiment practices. Western medicine has increasingly embraced practices like these. A growing body of scientific evidence supports their benefits, which have been understood over centuries of lived experience.
We may consider together elements of contemplative practice that you might engage in support of well-being. We may explore practices within your cultural traditions that support this process as well. For example:
Mindfulness meditation offers a pathway to engage the potential for positive changes in the brain and body. Through mindfulness meditation we endeavor to increase non-judgmental awareness and attention to the present moment, supporting opportunities for greater personal growth, emotional flexibility and personal optimism.
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Compassion and kindness toward the self and others is at the root of healing and well-being. Compassion-based meditation may support self-acceptance and building connection.
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Embodiment Practice. Our cumulative life experiences are recorded in the physical body as well as the mind. Disconnecting from the body may be a protective coping mechanism in times of severe stress and trauma. Over time the nervous system may become dysregulated and overactive. Practices like progressive muscle relaxation, grounding, and guided imagery offer a pathway to healing and rebalancing through connection and self-awareness.
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Personal Meaning is uniquely defined by each individual. It may grow out of our relationships, connection to nature, work, intellectual pursuits and spiritual practices, among other inspirations. Embracing this guide path may support positive choices that further enrich our lives.
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For more information on contemplative practices you may visit these sites:
Nalanda Institute for Contemplative Science
Thich Nhat Hanh Center for Mindfulness in Public Health at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Disclosures: Dr. Miller completed advanced training with the Center for Mind Body Medicine. She trained at Weill Cornell Medical Center and the Graduate School of Medical Sciences and was a Harvard undergraduate. Dr. Miller does not have any ongoing active financial relationships with the organizations listed.
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