Journey from Head to Heart

A Sioux Indian saying states that “the longest journey you’ll ever take is from your head to your heart.” I have been wondering lately how I can live more heart centered. I know how much I am in my head. I approach problems from an intellectual perspective and block out emotions and feelings as much as possible so as not to hurt my seemingly delicate heart.

From a young age, I have had my walls up. I’m not a person that is or has ever been open with my feelings although at my core I am quite sensitive. I think many of us wall ourselves off from our own hearts in order to keep ourselves “safe”. Unhealthy relationships, bullying, and being on the receiving end of hurtful words can all be reasons we separate ourselves from the truths and experiences of our own heart.

These walls make us numb. Not only have we blocked out the bad but by doing so, we have blocked out the good as well. We may have the knowledge of how to live a heart centered life but knowledge without practice is useless. We know life can be so much more vibrant yet we only see it in muted colors.

How can we reconnect with our own heart? First, I believe, we must go within. Meditation, walks in nature, mindful breathing are all ways we can connect back to Source, shifting our consciousness from egocentric to unity centric. We understand that we are only one small piece of the whole.

I have two statues on my little altar at home- one of the Buddha sitting cross legged, in a lotus position and the other of Jesus, standing with his arms open. This is a reminder to me that to find peace, we must journey within and then share that inner love and wisdom with others. Connection is key. It’s being able to show love in every interaction. Even when somebody is being unkind to us, know that they are on their own path of evolution and only saying what they are saying because of their own internal struggle.

Creative expression can also connect us to our hearts. Expressing ourselves through writing, art work, dancing, singing, etc can begin to chip away at our walls. I know for me, when I feel uninspired, I’m usually all in my head. Yet it’s the act of writing that allows me to shift more towards my heart. It’s being able to take that first step that begins the shift, even if my ego protests!

Be vulnerable and share your story with others. Ask for help and allow others to help you. You don’t have to be able to do it all on your own. We are all one and here to lift each other up.

Spiritual growth is a journey. It’s who I become while on this path that will define me. ​

I invite you to Awaken to the Truth of your Divine nature. You are love, you are loved and you are always enough.

Jenna