The practice of mindful parenting elevates our consciousness to a state that relates to, but is separate from, thought.  As we deepen our connection to our child, we draw energy from an awareness that we always have access to but rarely tap.  Through mindfulness, we intuit ways to open that pathway so that we can tap into this energy with greater ease.

So often we call upon and immerse our thinking mind into challenging situations.  We believe that problem solving (if even needed) is best served with diligent thought.  But when our thinking mind is fully engaged, the deep well of expansive intelligence residing within ourselves remains untouched.  Through stillness, and a shift to the state of observer, not doer, we tap into this intelligence.

Today, when you find yourself in a challenging situation involving your child, allow your initial reaction to be one of pausing.  If only as an experiment, hold off on your first impulse, and turn to a place of stillness.  Breathe deeply, inhaling and exhaling slowly, filling your belly.  Though you may not feel relaxed, this breathing exercise will allow you to more easily enter into stillness.  Relax your facial muscles and your shoulders.

Then, try to shift your perspective from doer to observer.  Visualize the scene from above yourself so that you see you and your child.  Observe your feeling states as they are; don't judge them.  And don't search for answers.

In the stillness you bring to that moment, as you observe yourself and your child from a place of deep awareness, you may be surprised with what emerges.

The situation may lose its urgent call.  And while it may nonetheless call for a response, you will be more fully equipped to respond with love and compassion.  At the same time, stress or frustration you may have been feeling will be attenuated and perhaps even transformed into a deep feeling of joy.