Contentment in solitude does not come naturally to me. I grew up in a loud family with noise, company, and a whole lot of love around all the time. But the older I get, the more I realize that finding some peace in being alone from time to time is important. It's part of the balance I seek, part of the rhythm that keeps me going, and part of the journey towards a more simple life.
Because being in solitude doesn't require much else than, well, being. Here are a few of the ways I'm working on embracing the solitude in my life:
1. Meditation - I'm VERY new at this whole meditation thing, but I'm starting to read more on it and practice it daily. I'm at about a minute now, but I know that with time my ability to sit in silence will improve. It's challenging, but I'm enjoying the challenge and looking forward to where it might take me.
2. Running - I've been running for a while now, but in training for my first marathon I find myself more able to enjoy the solitude of those long, quiet runs. Nothing but me and the road before me. It's a time that I'm coming to cherish more and more with each passing day. Seriously. I'm hooked.
3. Being fully present when I'm with others - Because the more I'm able to be present in the company of others, the more I can enjoy the shared time. And the more I can enjoy the time I spend with the people in my life, the more I can likewise enjoy my time alone. It's that whole balance thing. So, so important to where I am in my life right now.
These are just a few of the small steps I'm taking daily to embrace solitude and make a conscious effort to find the time and space for it in my everyday life.
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