The Path of Least Resistance

What is this law of "least effort" or "least resistance"? It is not laziness, it is not settling for less, it is rather... harmonious action. There is a pathway of least resistance that is always available in the given moment. A moment in time when our action is perfectly in-tune with the vibrations of those around us and our internal needs. When stressful moments happen, when anxiety or depression may grow, when the body becomes tired or stiff, we can discover the simple solution of patient mindfulness, moving our body with our breath, and dedicating to our practice of meditation. This "least effort" not mean that we allow ourselves to become complacent, on the contrary! It cultivates within us a sense of strength and determination as we move in the direction our heart pulls us while also maintaining a balance with the sentient beings around us. The tree does not ask to swim. The fish does not ask to grow towards the sun. Each one of us has our unique gift and talent that naturally springs forth in each given moment. These abilities that bring joy to our lives and to the lives of others are infinitely available and at our disposal. Life is going to give you whatever circumstances are needed for you to continue to evolve. Rather than fight against the current of change and challenge, let's flow and allow it to evolve us, to create a deeper relationship with Self and Other. 1. Do I listen to my mind or my body? Often times, our body is sending us signals while our mind may be persuading us to do something else. From digestive issues to social situations, our body can give us clues as to what is happening right now and if it is something it desires or not. Tightness in the chest, tension in the stomach, trembling of the hands, or shortness of breath are some indicators. These may point in the direction of what's truly happening in a given situation and that its time for space, relaxation, or even engagement and communication. 2. Do I accept situations or more often than not fight to change circumstances and people according to my expectations? We often times want to change circumstances and people, places and things. This creates an increased amount of stress because as we've all learned, you can't change others, you can only change your attitude towards them. 3. Am I motivated by fear or love? Acting on fear has created so many calamities in the world. When we act from a space of love, understanding, and compassion, the pressure begins to release from the body-mind and we find our family slowly grows. 4. Am I attached to the "How" instead of the "What"? Creating goals in your life with the flexibility of how they are achieved lessens anxiety and the fear of failure, because ultimately there are infinite ways that the goal can manifest. Step by step we work towards our realization, and day by day we allow our goals to grow into new possibilities and outcomes. 5. Can I discover meaning on a daily basis? Long and short term goals are great, but can we live life with mindfulness and purpose when accomplishing every day tasks, chatting with strangers and our spouse, and washing the dishes? Thich Nhat Hanh says, "Our own life has to be our message." My prayer is that you find yourself relaxing deeper and deeper into the moment, with clarity, with strength, and with the body and mind of calm abiding. Love and light, Kyle Bennett