Now that the Ramadan is over, I’m very mindful about holding on to that feeling of spirituality, it’s a feeling I like to keep the whole year round, not just during Ramadan.
A question I get asked a lot by both friends and clients is, ‘What is your daily spiritual practice?’ I feel like in the crazy, busy times that we are living in; having a daily spiritual practice is not even up for negotiation. I think most of us can relate to this. We’ve all had times where we’ve thought, “How will I ever get through this stressful day?” or, “How can I even fit all these things into my day?” or “My head is about to explode, with all these things I need to get done.”
In my column this week, I want to offer some clarity by sharing my own daily spiritual practice. My intention is to show you the simplicity and joy that comes with being on a spiritual path. My daily spiritual practice goes a little like this….
Every morning, I start with an intention, the moment I wake up, I set an intention for the day. Over the years I have seen that intention setting pretty much set the tone for my day and the 24 hours that follow unfold accordingly with purpose and direction.
I’ll then go on to say a few affirmations. These affirmations can change depending on what’s going on in my life on any given day. I say this affirmation and then sit in stillness for a minute to let the words absorb in my heart and mind. I turn to this affirmation whenever I need it throughout my day. My current affirmation is: I have all that I need to make this a great day of my life.
For years my mornings also include meditation, there are so many ways to do this. If you’re short on time, you can, just for a few minutes first thing in the morning sit in stillness, pay attention to your breath or repeat an empowering affirmation that will transform the way you start your day.
Throughout the day, I pray, I pray five times daily. I’m always turning over my need to have to want to control outcomes. I ask God for guidance and direction during the day. I like to pray for family and friends and people in need.
When evening comes around, I love to sit down with either my family or close friends, talk about our day and have uplifting conversations about being grateful for all we have been blessed with. This moment of gratitude and appreciation is one of the best parts of my day, and it usually rounds off an evening that I’ve spent doing one of my favourite things, eating a delicious meal with loved ones.
Finally, before bed, I close the day with reflection; I go over how I showed up to life and see where I could have done better. I thank God for another beautiful day and ask for a peaceful night’s sleep. Daily prayer and meditation have been part of my routine for many many years. A daily spiritual practice gives me exactly what my morning affirmation promises: I have everything I need to make this a great day of my life.
* The author is a consultant and coach. Instagram handle: @miss_shefa, Website: missshefa.com
Shefa Ali
