Part 1. A Tool For “Being”

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Jeff Kidman
Contributing Writer

Legacy Discovery Shaman Jeff Kidman brings to you exercises you can undertake anywhere, at a time that works for you. For the man on a men’s team, in a men’s group or out there on his own. The intention of these exercises is to bring you into greater connection to something bigger, so that you can broaden your context, reach your highest potential and ultimately be more successful in the endeavors that matter to you and those you influence.

A Tool For “Being”

Sometimes my mind is very noisy, and try as I might I can’t stop the stream of thoughts and worries. I want to be present, and that wanting leads to lots of thoughts of how to do it, and thinking harder about it.

In those moments it’s helpful to have a “mantra” or a series of words or sounds that focus your mind. This mantra was given to me at a week-long retreat in which we began the day with a morning meditation. I have found it helpful when I want to sit quietly for a period or just to clear my mind when I need to calm down or fall asleep.

You may recognize its origin, but I hope the words themselves can help anyone to focus on the present. The steps are simple:

1. Get comfortable, maybe sit or lay down.
2. Close your eyes or unfocus them.
3. Say these words out loud or in your head:
   • Be Still and Know that I Am (pause)
   • Be Still and Know (pause)
   • Be Still (pause)
   • Be
4. Rinse and repeat.

This can be an invitation to meditation or a simple way to remind yourself to simply be present. In either case, you will most likely be better off for it.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]