Refuge

Practices that support our inner life cultivate a refuge we can rely upon day in and day out. Without consistent training in what feeds our inner life we have nothing to rely on especially in times of crisis.

The Greek poet Archilochos said “We don’t rise to the level of our expectations, we fall to the level of our training.” We could substitute the word “training” here with the words practices or rituals–the bottom line non negotiables that feed us regularly.

These days more than ever we need to be deliberate about where we take our refuge. The intent of our refuge determines the shape of our days and the quality of our life.

Whether it’s a walk through a city park, a cuppa tea, formal prayer or meditation practices, journalling, painting, engaging a craft, preparing simple meals, contemplative reading, beautiful music in the background, a good nap, simple night time rituals. These practices can be simple and inexpensive but the key is they are done with intent.

Where do you take refuge?