Full Moon Volume LVI | May 12, 2025

 

Hello Ashley,



Sometimes the most powerful reminders are the simplest. In our constant motion, we can forget what's always available to us - that deep, patient and restorative stillness beneath the surface of our busy lives.


Dear friend,


I’m still here.

Under the noise, the lists, the long silence—beneath all that, I haven’t moved.

I wait, not impatiently, not at all. Just here. Soft, steady, clear.


Come rest for a moment. You don’t have to fix or finish anything first.

Let your shoulders drop. Let your breath come just as it is.

Even now—especially now—there’s space for you.


—Stillness


This stillness isn't something we need to create or achieve. It's already here, a natural quality of awareness itself - patient, spacious, and waiting for us to remember it. Even in our busiest moments, we can reconnect with this presence.


In appreciation,

Ashley

Three-Step Return to Stillness


Here's a brief three-step practice to directly reconnect with stillness. 


  • Pause: Stop what you're doing and notice the physical points of stillness in your body - perhaps where you're touching the chair, or the weight of your feet on the floor.


  • Soften: Take three breaths while consciously relaxing your shoulders, jaw, and forehead. Let your breath find its natural rhythm.



  • Listen: For just 30 seconds, notice the quiet space that exists beneath and between your thoughts. This spaciousness is always here.


No special equipment or extended time needed - just this momentary recognition of what's already present.

Stillness Before Motion

Dr. Kat Bodden and I are hosting a gentle two-hour gathering where we'll explore what happens when we actually let ourselves rest before jumping into activity. We'll share how your nervous system naturally restores itself when given breathing room.You'll leave feeling rejuvenated, taking home with you simple practices that fit into real life. A little moment of replenishment before summer kicks into full swing - we'd love to see you.


June 12, 6:30 - 8:30pm at Deep Waters (Portland). You can learn more and register here.

Meditation - Tonight ✨

There's something pretty remarkable about how being fully present can crack open unexpected moments of awe and joy. Join me this evening as we explore wholehearted attention, and how it shapes our experience.


The Wonder Commons, 5/12 7-8:30pm at Deep Waters (Portland), by sliding scale - all warmly welcome. Save your spot here.


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Through coaching and contemplative practices, OpenSpace Mindfulness supports individuals and organizations to live their full creative potential without sacrificing their well-being.

OpenSpace Mindfulness | hello@openspacemindfulness.com