Centering Routinely

Remembering to Flourish is a call to awareness of God’s desire for us to flourish (Psalms 115:14). While God’s desire is for us to flourish, it is up to us to remember to flourish by engaging in practices – behaviors and attitudes – that replenish mind, body, and soul. I have identified twelve practices to remember. Practices that lead to facilitate flourishing. Here I will introduce the second practice. 

Recall: (Remember to Practice) Centering Routinely 

Recharge: (Meditation) When I was a teenager, I hated to hear the words “You are grounded!” It meant that certain privileges and connections were being taken away as a form of punishment. Some of the time the words were deserved and well earned, just sayin’. These same words now take on an entirely different meaning. “You are grounded” now means that I am centered. Instead of disconnection, being centered means that I am connected and focused.  Instead of a form of punishment, being grounded provides relief during chaos. Centering is reconnecting with God. Centering is relying on God knowing that God is the source of our being, our strength, our wisdom, and our relief.  

According to the American Psychological Association, centering is defined as “a technique whose aim is to increase and focus attention and energy, to provide relief from stress and anxiety, or both. Various practices (e.g., meditation, yoga, prayer) emphasize centering as a way of focusing attention on the process of breathing in order to slow it down or regularize it. Sometimes this state of concentration is an end in itself. In other instances, at the point of concentration, negative thoughts and emotions are released and positive thoughts and emotions are encouraged.” Daily our senses – what we see, hear, feel, touch, and smell – are overloaded. We are pulled in every direction. Demands – reasonable and unreasonable – drain our energy and emotions. The way of this world is unsustainable. But God has another way. God, in Psalm 46:10 invites us to “Be still and know that I am God.” Being still – centering – doesn’t just happen, it takes intentionality and practice. Centering can draw us closer to God. 

Reflect:(Journal prompt) How would you describe your connection with God and how does that connection show up in your life? What centering practices do you employ? 

Rehearse: (Affirmation) I am centered and grounded in my faith.  

Refill: (prayer) Sit still, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. As you inhale say, “God, be here with me.” As you exhale say, “God, I am here with You.” Repeat several times.