Nourish Your Soul by Listening to Your Inner Voice

by beconrad
 

If you sit quietly, the still small voice will tell you where you need to be and what you need to do. Unfortunately, many of us are so busy we never get a chance to hear our inner voices, let alone listen to them. Modern life can be a hectic place, and it can be hard to see the hand of a benevolent creator behind all the chaos.
 
That does not mean that our spiritual creator is not there, however. If you listen to your heart and get in touch with your soul, you will find the creator waiting for you. No matter how busy your day or harried your life, there is always time to nourish your soul and listen to that still small voice.
 
Start (and End) Each Day with Quiet Reflection
It can be hard to get in touch with your soul if your mind keeps racing. Instead of crawling out of bed, getting dressed and rushing off to work, set the alarm clock a few minutes early. Use those precious first moments of wakefulness to meditate or just quietly reflect on the day ahead. Think about your spiritual life, the important connections you have with family and friends and how you can use their love to gain strength and tackle the day.
 
Do the same thing before you turn in for the evening. Instead of watching TV or answering email, just sit back, relax and reflect on the day's events. You do not have to meditate (although you can if you wish). The key is to relax your mind and body and listen to what your soul is telling you.
 
Create Your Own Daily Affirmation
We all like to get a pat on the back sometimes, but modern life does not provide many reassuring pats. Chances are your boss does not heap praise on you every morning, and your kids may be too wrapped up in their own lives to tell you what a great parent you are.
 
No matter how indifferent the outside world is, you do not have to go without that spiritual pat on the back. Creating your own daily affirmations is a great way to feel better about yourself and start every day off on a good note. Whether you create a formal book of your favorite affirmations or just keep them in your head, this simple exercise can provide deep nourishment for your soul.
 
Design Your Own Prayer Book
Whether you are classically religious or just spiritually oriented, designing your own prayer book can be a great way to nourish your soul and a live a more fulfilling life. There is a reason prayer books have such a long history in the spiritual world, and having such a tome at your disposal can be quite reassuring.
 
Your prayer book does not have to be anything fancy. You do not need an elaborate cover or expensive paper. It is what you put between those covers and on that paper that counts. Carry your prayer book with you as you go about your day-to-day life. Use it to record your thoughts and feelings and look for ways to live a deeper, more spiritual and fulfilled life.
 
Enrich Your Environment
There is a reason people travel around the world to see the Louvre, the Met, the Prado and other great museums. The best art uplifts us, touches our souls and gives us a glimpse of the divine. You may not be able to afford a Picasso or a Monet, but enriching your home (and work) environment is a great way to nourish your soul.
 
Whether you adorn your office wall with a favorite art print or hang your kid's favorite watercolor on the fridge so you can view at as you cook dinner, these visual cues can nourish your soul and make you feel good all day long.
 
It can be hard to break through the clutter of modern life and hear your soul talking, but it is important to try nonetheless. No matter what your religious or spiritual tradition, nourishing your soul is good for your well being and your personal growth.