Did you know that Valentine’s Day was named after two early Christian Martyrs whose names were Valentine? It was not until Middle Ages that an English poet added the “romantic touch” to the holiday. Then modern times arrived along with teddy bears, chocolate hearts and expensive roses.

When I asked my boyfriend Rob why he doesn’t like Valentine’s Day his answer was, “it’s too commercialized.” I paused for a second. I didn’t want him to buy me flowers for Valentine’s Day, but I do like the dark expensive Belgium chocolates…Then I remembered how sweet and loving he is everyday and all the little things he does each day for me. I cherish that and realize I can’t take it for granted and that is something that we need to cultivate everyday.

Soul Gazing

So this Valentine’s Day we are going to do “Soul Gazing“, an ancient practice that invites you to look deeply into the eyes of a loved one. When lovers soul gaze, the eyes open like windows and reveal the pathway to your deepest emotions. The relationship you share with this “special someone” only happens in the present moment. This practice is about slowing down, being quiet and still if only for 5 minutes. But how many times have you recognized that the present moment is the only moment we will ever have? We call ourselves “Human Beings” but we only are recognized by “doing, not being”. Soul Gazing can be a wonderful start to practicing mindfulness in a world where we are constantly surrounded by noise, “monkey chatter” in our heads and our programming to multitask. Being more mindful of the love in and around you can lead to a deepening and renewal of the most cherished feelings and relationships. Not only between your “special someone, but also our children, parents and friends…. so let’s practice.

Sit before each other. You can hold hands or place your hands on your partners chest right where his/her heart is, maintaining eye contact for extended period – two or three minutes for beginners, but longer as you become more experienced. Staying alert yet relaxed, bring your attention to your breathing. Observe your natural inhalations with energy. Witness each out-breath as it enters your body and fills it with energy. Witness each out-breath as it leaves your body and dissipates into space.

In less than one minute your mind will probably be flooded with thoughts. Perhaps you will feel restless, anxious or bored. You will begin to tell yourself stories about your thoughts, feelings and sensations. Keep looking, keep gazing.

Congratulations! You are both meditating. The purpose of meditation is to become aware of your thoughts without judging or fighting them. Your goal is not to get rid of your thoughts, but rather to witness each thought as it comes and goes, like clouds passing in the sky. If it feels silly, go ahead and giggle to release tension. You will soon feel more comfortable.

So what about sending your loved one to The Grand Beauty Spa for a facial, massage or an exclusive pedicure and then once all relaxed, spend some time soul gazing.

I heard just the other day, “If you don’t give your heart reason to keep beating, it won’t!” May this practice strengthen your love and bring you ease and well-being.

Mind – Body  Workshop

If you are interested in learning about meditation and mindfulness practices, please email me at the Grand Beauty Spa: ella@grandbeautyspa.com.

Sometime this spring we will be organizing a Mind – Body workshop. You will have the opportunity to learn movement, meditation “Qi-gong” and the art of sitting meditation.

Do you already Soul Gaze? Tell us about your experience with your loved one.

Many Blessings
Namaste
Ella Gorecka