“Being With You”…Practicing Presence as a Healing Strategy for Trauma

A contemplative practice of being with someone with joy and mindfulness involves fully immersing oneself in the present moment while engaging with another person in a spirit of genuine happiness and presence. This practice allows for a deep connection with the other person and fosters a sense of appreciation and gratitude for the shared experience. Here are some steps to cultivate this contemplative practice:

1. Set the Intention: Before meeting with the person, set an intention to be fully present, joyful, and mindful during your time together. Remind yourself to let go of distractions and preoccupations and to bring your full attention to the interaction.

2. Practice Mindful Listening: When the person is speaking, practice mindful listening. Please give them your undivided attention, and truly listen to what they are saying without interrupting or planning your response in your mind. Be open and receptive to their words and emotions.

3. Engage with Curiosity: Approach the interaction with curiosity and interest. Be genuinely interested in the other person’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Ask open-ended questions and encourage them to share more about themselves.

4. Cultivate Joyful Presence: Infuse the interaction with a spirit of joy and positivity. Let your genuine happiness and enthusiasm shine through your words and body language. Celebrate the person’s successes and satisfaction, and share in their joy.

5. Practice Non-Judgment: Practice non-judgmental awareness during the interaction. Let go of preconceived notions or judgments about the person and the situation. Embrace a mindset of acceptance and compassion.

6. Express Gratitude: Take a moment to express gratitude for the time spent together and the opportunity to connect with the person. Acknowledge and appreciate the meaningful moments shared during the interaction.

7. Pause and Breathe: Throughout the interaction, take brief moments to pause and take a few conscious breaths. This helps ground you in the present moment and prevents the mind from wandering.

8. Reflect on the Experience: After the interaction, take time for personal reflection. Consider the joy, connection, and mindfulness moments experienced during the exchange. Reflect on its positive impact on your well-being and connection quality.

You cultivate a more profound sense of connection, empathy, and understanding by approaching interactions with others in this contemplative manner. Being with someone with joy and mindfulness enriches both your own experience and that of the other person, fostering a meaningful and authentic connection.