Lovely practice. Very helpful and expertly guided me to observing the impermanence of all things without being at all depressing or dark. It is simply observing what we see, and as we are part of this impermanent world, so we too are impermanent.
In the last 18 months, I have had a series of losses, from the passing away of three close family members as well as one of my staff at work, to a major surgery, to (a joyful loss but still a loss in the lifestyle I once led) becoming an "empty nesters" as my only child graduated high school and left home for college. These events, combined with the need to sort through family possessions left behind after the deaths, have brought the nature of impermanence home to me in a very stark relief. Where once I was a "border hoarder," I now find that physical objects don't mean nearly as much as they once did. Even those objects, as I view items my aunt had inherited from her mother, who inherited them from HER mother (my great-grandmother), and so on, no longer retain their original luster despite best attempt to clean and restore them. They are impermanent too, just with a longer lifespan.
And so I have found my focus for my practice shifting to contemplating impermanence, death, and loss much more these days. It is freeing, which I did not expect. This former almost "border hoarder" is now starting to embrace the minimalist mindset and am working on clearing out old and unneeded/unusable items to make room for SPACE and breathing room in my life. The tree leaf cycle has been my touchstone throughout this time, with reflections in the family tree symbol (I am a semi-pro genealogist studying to obtain my certification), so I am frequently reminded when I see it.
I thank you for this clear and calm practice which was quite uplifting and centering for me. Though I practiced inside, I grew up in the mountains and forests, and have enjoyed my time walking, hiking, and camping my whole life. About a year ago, I took up the practice of shinrin yoku (forest bathing) to help me cope with the pain and overwhelming emotions of my losses. I continue that practice as well.
Today, I was able this morning, looking out the window at the sunrise just beginning, to visualize a setting described by you as ideal. On a more challenging day, I might close my eyes and play birdsong or a similar nature sound recording while inhaling the scent of pine trees or similar to assist me.
I thank you for sharing this practice with us here. I have bookmarked and downloaded it for use again. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I see the light within you. 🤲🏻❤️🤲🏻
