The sounds not the view

Our eyes are quick to see a beautiful view. And today the bluebells on the lower reaches of Cleeve Hill on the outskirts of Cheltenham are an absolute picture.

It is not only a sunny day but it is also an unusually warm day. The sweet smell of the bluebells was really strong when I was there just now. A really sweet perfume filling the woodland.

So often our eyes and perhaps our noses take in our surroundings – but we fail to notice the sounds. Our ears are one of our five senses and yet we may find it hard to listen, to be aware of the sounds around us.

Sometimes the sounds are captivating – like the woodland on this warm sunny day  – you can hear it here.  Sometimes the sounds around us may be less captivating or neutral or even distressing for us. Either way we can be aware: we can hear; we can listen.

As we practice listening, we can become more aware of our own thoughts and emotions, our bodies, and our spirits.

This is Mindful Monday on 7 May 2018.

Join Sara Shailer and Julie Hill for an evening of mindfulness at the Oasis in Cheltenham on the theme of listening next Monday 14 May 7.30-9 pm.

Please book your place so we can prepare the space for the right number of people. There is no charge but a donation of between £3 and £6 towards room hire is welcome, if you are able.