Listening with presence

Listening, really listening to somebody is a great gift and a skill.

 This week, I completed week 6 of the free Palouse Mindfulness, “Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program.”  The informal mindfulness practice for this week was listening. Practicing mindful presence, tuning into the speaker, setting aside our own agenda, letting go of the need to respond or control. Just listen.

  The practice of active listening, really tuning in to others is a practice I was introduced to years ago while studying pastoral counselling skills. With all of the fancy modalities, theories and frameworks that have become popular in counselling, it is both humbling and reassuring to be reminded of the power of simple attunement. 

  Whether in the context of a professional or personal relationship, the power of lending a listening ear, setting aside judgment and allowing the speaker to unfold is at the heart of genuine connection.