A challenge for these challenging times.

People are filled with dread about what we see happening in our world and particularly in our country. Our anxiety is building by the hour and our fears are leading us to imagine a future that is possible, but is not yet real.

There is time for resistance and we should all take a stand in whatever manner that works for us.

But for now I would like to challenge you to momentarily cast aside these challenging times and focus on what is real, here and now.

First, remove all your clothes. Clothes are an artificial skin that creates an illusion. Clothes are the enemy of the real you. Clothes bind you and imprison you preventing you from experiencing the real you. Clothes are society’s way to enslave you with their rules and to keep you from experiencing your natural self.

Next, find a place without distractions where you can be comfortable. No internet, no television, no interactions with others. Just a quiet and comfortable space where you can focus on yourself. If that space is inside, that is fine but if you can safely be outside, then all the better.

Begin to focus on your breath, breathing in slowly and deeply. Calm your mind. If thoughts intrude, gently move them away from your mind. Become aware of how your body feels. If you feel anxious, lovingly tell yourself that you are safe now. No harm can come to you in this moment.

Pay attention to your surroundings. Look for the beauty in your immediate vicinity. It can be a beautiful flower or an animal sauntering by or a wonderful work of art or an intricate natural pattern or an amazing sky. Look for the beauty in your world and lose yourself in that beauty. Importantly, feel gratitude for that beauty. Be thankful that you can live in a world filled with so much beauty.

Continue to breathe slowly and deeply while loving all of the beauty that surrounds you everywhere. Reassure yourself that there is plenty of time to face the many challenges in the future but now is the time to immerse yourself in this amazing moment that will never be repeated.

Now that you have illuminated some of the beauty that surrounds you it is time to focus on your body. If you have any aches or pains, send relaxing energy to that area to bring comfort and relief. Take a moment to notice how free it feels to release yourself from the restrictions of compulsive clothing. Feel the sensation of the air on all of your skin. Send loving energy throughout your body. If you have any negative feelings about your body, put them away for the moment. Tell yourself that your body is beautiful and is a perfect creation.

Now, take some time to be thankful for all that you have in your life. Feel gratitude for those who have helped you throughout your life. Think of all of the things in your life that bring you joy.

Now continue to cycle through all of these positive elements in your life: the calming breath, the beauty that surrounds you, your wonderful body and all of the things you can be thankful for.

When you feel calm and refreshed get up and go about your life. If you can remain unclothed, then enjoy that way of being. Otherwise get dressed and know you can return to this peaceful state at any time. Promise yourself you will do so soon and frequently.

Peace and love to you.