I read an article today about the symbolism of the Lotus flower and got reminded of lessons learned during my Yoga teacher training back in 2019, and I felt like I wanted to share this thoughts with you.
It’s said that the Lotus flower is the symbol of the year 2023, since it’s supposed to be the the year of hope and renewal. I know this feels a bit of topic since we are living in a time of a war in Europe and with the recent earth quakes in Turkey and Syria, plus not too mention the inflation that is just sky rocketing. I still can’t believe we have a war in Europe in the 2020’s, but that’s off topic so I will try to stay on track with the hidden meaning behind the lotus flower that inspired me to write today’s blog text.
The lotus flower's daily resurrection is certainly interesting, and surely symbolic of revival. By the way this makes it the perfect gift for anyone recovering from injury or a traumatic experience. The flower also has a fascinating will to live. A lotus seed can withstand thousands of years without water, able to germinate over two centuries later.
The flower also blooms in the most unlikely of places such as the mud of murky river water. Not only does it find sanctuary in the muck, but due to the waxy protection layer on its petals, its beauty is unaffected when it re-blooms each morning.
It continues to resurrect itself, coming back just as beautiful as it was last seen.
With such refusal to accept defeat, it's almost impossible not to associate this flower with unwavering faith. Although cultures have largely dubbed the lotus as a spiritual figurehead, I see it as a embodiment of the faith within ourselves.
So why do we say that the lotus flower is the symbol of 2023
Because It blooms from the murky water and emerges into the light exactly like we all did after a super challenging 2022!
So I took the liberty of using this message of hope to create a
STEP-BY-STEP Calming Lotus Meditation
I promise, it’s simple and easy enough to get into… especially when you need a bit of hope and rejuvenation.
Step 1. Find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed and sit comfortably, either on a cushion or chair.
Step 2. Light a candle and place it in front of you.
Step 3. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to calm your mind & relax your body.
Step 4. Focus on the light of the candle, imagining it shining bright and filling you with peace and calm.
Step 5. Visualize yourself sitting in the center of a lotus flower, surrounded by its petals.
Step 6. Repeat to yourself a phrase that brings you peace and calm.
Step 7. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment and letting go of any thoughts or distractions.
Step 8. Open your eyes and take a deep breath, feeling refreshed and recharged.
Step 9. Blow the candle carry this feeling of peace and calm with you throughout your day.