Don't you just love the word "tranquil." Certain words seem to resonate with a feeling of pure contentment. Other words that come to mind are serene, calm, silence, reflective, and peaceful. It makes sense that when we think and say these words that the tranquil feeling will become a part of who we are.



Try this:

For the whole day today, concentrate only on words or phrases that bring this sense of tranquility. Make your own list. Put the list in a word file so that you can refer to it. Write it down on a plain piece of white paper with a bright blue sharpie (or a color that you like). Tape it on your refrigerator, or put it in your wallet. Or write out a couple of lists and scatter them all over-your bathroom mirror, your car, and your coffee table.

Once your mind is filled with thoughts of tranquility, begin to associate these thoughts with real world situations. What kind of images come up when you you think of the word tranquil? Here are a few that come up for me:

* A beautiful lake with two swans quietly enjoying their surroundings.

* A mother holding her baby as he coos and giggles.

* Having a picnic in the country, just you and your sweetie, under a big beautiful shade tree.

While you are practicing your tranquil thoughts come up with your own tranquil images. Do not stop at ordinary situations. Use your imagination to take you to the extraordinary.

For example:

* You are are on a path in an enchanted forest. The branches of the trees surrounding you sweep down to create a welcoming gesture. As you walk along, there is a gentle wind with the scent of lavender that creates a wonderful healing effect.

* You have the ability to fly. As you glide over valleys, rolling hills, rivers, and communities you feel one with the power of the universe. Your loving essence moves around and through you on your travels, dispensing inspirational energy wherever you go.

* You are magically brought to a large castle in a mysterious place. You are taken to an overstuffed chair in front of a roaring fire. Your host looks strangely familiar. She has a calm and sweet demeanor which instantly puts you at ease. Then one by one she leads your loved ones in (those passed). Your host sits them down opposite you in an equally comfy chair, and you commence to share your deepest feelings with each other.

This type of exercise requires that you take time for yourself. It is easy to keep to busy schedules without pausing to give thought to silly games like this. And if rushing around has worked for you, and you can honestly say you are supremely content with your high paced life - by all means, rush away.

But if you could use a little more calm or an extra dose of serenity to round out your day - stop, breathe, and reflect. Think tranquil-inducing thoughts. Exercise your imagination and dream. Allow yourself to be swept away. Your activities will still be there when you return to the material world.

Most likely you will return to them with a renewed spirit. You will tackle them with the intention of a positive spirit spreading love rather than the anxious intensity that would otherwise accompany your tasks.

Life is meant to be fun. Reflect on this. Go inside yourself (our inner source) where your high frequency energies conspire to supply you with all the creativity you need. Inspired, tranquil action is yours if you simply take the time to access your guidance. It is a zen gift from the universe; all you need to do is smile, accept your tranquil state of consciousness, and say "thank you."