Art Therapy for Broads Abroad :: Siesta Dreaming :: Exercise #12

No, really, I'm listening.

:: Effective listeners remember that 'words have no meaning - people have meaning.'  The assignment of meaning to a term is an internal process; meaning comes from inside us.  And although our experiences, knowledge and attitudes differ, we often misinterpret each others' messages while under the illusion that a common understanding has been achieved :: - Larry Baker

This week was filled with many words and many sounds.  I heard the strength as well as the anxiety of my New Orleans friends through their status updates as Hurricane Isaac roared closer and closer.  I heard encouragement as Team Rokit soothed me back into non-smoking mode.  I heard myself described as someone I didn't recognize, and heard myself perseverating on those words, wondering if I understood their intent correctly. 

Today, I took a rest from listening.  That's a huge struggle for a professional listener, and quiet is not a word that exist in my Mexico.  Yet, Saturdays in Merida, during siesta, if one takes full advantage, it is possible to cocoon, and spoon if you have a lover, into the folds of a hammock.

Today's Secret Message of Love : 

Make a space to rest.

Siesta Dreaming © News From A Broad

Materials:

• You
• A comfortable bed, hammock, sofa, or reclining chair.
• A drawstring bag, large enough to accommodate a bottle of wine.
• A cup of various herbs. See Process below.
• Pen or pencil.
• A beautiful journal.

Process:

• There are many websites that offer herbal blends for sleeping pillows.  This list is best for stress reduction:  a 1/4 c rose petals, a 1/4 c lavender flowers, a 1/4 c of rosemary, and a 1/4 c of peppermint or spearmint leaves.
• If you can't find these already dry, select fresh herbs for drying from your garden or local grocery.  You will need at least two bundles of each herb.
• Fresh herbs from the grocer come tied in a bundle.  Place each bundle, upside down, into individual paper sacks.  Secure the papered stems to a hanger, and place in a dark closet.  Your herbs should be dry between 4-7 days depending upon climate.
• Remove the leaves and flowers from their stems.
• Place the herbs inside the drawstring bag and secure.

Options:

• If you prefer non-synthetic fabric, make a drawstring bag from a well worn piece of cloth, such as a tea towel.
• Embroider a word on the drawstring bag that invokes a sense of peace.

Conclusions:

You deserve to set time aside to rejuvenate.  Listening to your inner voice is easier when you feel calm and rested.  Use the Broad Dream Notes as a guide for processing any sounds and images that accompanied your rest.

Create the life you want!

The Broad