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Since the beginning of time, humans
have gazed at the stars in the night sky with awe, seeking in their
luminosity everything from answers to inspiration to guidance. We have
emerged from our contemplations with stories of gods and goddesses, maps
of the universe, astrology, astronomy, math, and art. We have worshipped,
wondered, and even projected ourselves out into space in an attempt to
understand their magical essence. We know more now than we ever have
about what those celestial lights are, how far away they reside, and what
will happen to them over time, but facts and information are still no
substitute for experiencing them yourself.
Gazing at the stars is no doubt one of
the earliest forms of meditation practiced by human beings, and it is
readily available to this day. If you live in a city, you may have a hard
time seeing the stars, but a short drive can take you far enough beyond
the city lights to reveal their glory. If you live in a rural setting,
all you have to do is wait for the sun to set and the night to settle to
get the show of your life, every night. If you make a habit of it, you
will begin to know the seasonal changes of the night sky, deepening your
connection to the Earth and the universe in which you live.
One of the best ways to stargaze is to
lie down on a blanket so that your body can fully relax. This position
allows your breath to move easily as you settle down into the Earth,
connecting your consciousness to the sky. As you look deeply into the
vastness, allowing your awareness to alternate between the pinpoints of
light and the blue-black space that holds them, your breath expands and
contracts your body, just as the universe expands and contracts to its
own eternal rhythm. You may feel as if you are floating amidst the stars
or that they are raining down upon you. You may feel peacefulness, joy,
and connectedness, or any of a full range of emotions. Simply continue to
breathe, experiencing the wonder of this universe and your place within
it.
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