mindfulness | Lara Land, MHC Therapy

Awakening in Uncertain Times: A Heartfelt Approach to Meditation

by Lara Land | Mar 30, 2025 | COACHING, COMMUNITY, LAND BLOG, LARA LAND, Self Improvement, SELF-IMPROVEMENT

The world is shifting. Uncertainty surrounds us—politically, socially, and environmentally.

Many of us feel unmoored, seeking stability in a time when old systems are breaking apart. In moments like these, meditation is not just a refuge but a call to action, a practice that asks us to wake up, embody our truth, and meet life’s challenges with presence and compassion.

Spring Washam, a renowned meditation teacher and author, speaks to the importance of getting out of the mind and into the heart and body. Too often, meditation is misunderstood as an intellectual exercise—a way to observe thoughts, analyze emotions, and cultivate detachment. But as Washam reminds us, true awakening is about embodiment. “Sometimes the trap with meditation is people think they can live in the mind,” she says. “They don’t realize really what we are resting in is the wisdom of the body.”

The Heart as the Center of Transformation

When the world feels chaotic, it’s easy to retreat into thought loops, anxiety, or despair. But Washam emphasizes the necessity of being heart-centered in this moment. The heart, she teaches, is where we hold both joy and sorrow. It is where we grieve and where we love. It is the place from which true wisdom arises.

To cultivate heart-centered awareness in meditation, consider these practices:

Bring your attention to your heart space. Place a hand over your heart and simply breathe into this area. Feel into the warmth, the sensation, the emotion that lives there.
Acknowledge both joy and sorrow. Rather than seeking only positive emotions, allow yourself to hold the full spectrum of human experience.
Use heart-based mantras. Phrases like “May I be open, may I be present, may I trust” can help shift awareness from the analytical mind to the intuitive heart.

Anger, Change, and the Call to Serve

Many people struggle with anger in uncertain times. Injustice, suffering, and systemic failures can ignite powerful emotions. Washam does not shy away from this reality; instead, she teaches that anger is an energy to be understood, not suppressed. “Anger burns,” she says, “but truth cuts.”

Rather than reacting from anger, we can channel it into clarity, into action, into service. She teaches that meditation is not about escaping the world but awakening to it fully—feeling the emotions, understanding them, and using them as fuel for meaningful change.

Awakening as a Process: First Awaken, Then Guide, Then Serve

Washam describes a path of awakening that moves from personal insight to collective service: “First awaken, then guide, then serve and build.” The work begins within, but it does not stop there. Awakening is not just about feeling peaceful in meditation—it is about bringing that awareness into how we engage with our communities, how we heal ancestral wounds, how we care for the earth, and how we show up for each other.

Embracing the Unknown: What Emerges in the Cracks

Change, even collapse, is not something to fear. Washam reminds us: “When things are collapsing and there are cracks, new information appears.” This is a profound teaching for our time. When systems fail, when old ways of being no longer serve, there is an opening—a chance for something new to be born.

Rather than resisting uncertainty, we can lean into it with curiosity. What insights arise when we stop clinging to certainty? What possibilities emerge when we let go? The practice of meditation teaches us to be present with what is—without grasping, without resisting—so that we can navigate change with wisdom rather than fear.

Moving Forward with an Embodied Awakening

In these shifting times, we are called not just to meditate but to awaken—to move from thought to embodiment, from fear to presence, from anger to service. Washam’s teachings remind us that awakening is not a passive state but an active, engaged process. Learn more about her approach and how to apply it in this week’s episode of Beyond Trauma.

Exploring the Healing Power of Energy: Dr. Jamil Sayegh’s Holistic Approach to Health

by Lara Land | Mar 16, 2025 | COACHING, COMMUNITY, LAND BLOG, Self Improvement, SELF-IMPROVEMENT

In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, the focus on holistic practices has grown significantly.

Among the forefront leaders in this field is Dr. Jamil Sayegh, an expert in energy medicine and holistic health. Dr. Sayegh combines traditional medicine with energy healing to offer a truly integrative approach to health. His unique methods emphasize the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and energy, recognizing that true healing begins when all these elements work in harmony.

Energy Healing: Unlocking the Body’s Innate Healing Powers

At the heart of Dr. Sayegh’s approach lies a fundamental belief: the body has an innate ability to heal itself, but sometimes the flow of energy is obstructed, preventing that healing from taking place. Dr. Sayegh practices and teaches a variety of techniques designed to remove these blockages and restore balance within the body’s energy system.

Energy medicine focuses on the idea that the body’s energy fields can become disrupted due to stress, trauma, or negative thought patterns. By aligning and rebalancing these fields, Dr. Sayegh believes individuals can tap into their body’s natural healing abilities. This can lead to profound physical improvements, even in conditions that have not responded well to conventional treatments.

The Mind-Body Connection and Physical Healing

Dr. Sayegh’s work is not just about treating symptoms; it’s about addressing the root cause of physical ailments. His practice integrates mind-body techniques that engage both the conscious and subconscious aspects of the self. By doing so, he is able to identify and clear the energetic blocks that contribute to various health challenges, from chronic pain to emotional distress.

Testimonies from Dr. Sayegh’s patients are a testament to the effectiveness of his methods. Many have shared stories of healing from long-standing issues, such as autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, and even conditions that were once deemed irreversible by conventional medicine. Through the power of energy healing, Dr. Sayegh is helping individuals rediscover their vitality and restore their bodies to a state of balance and well-being.

The Path to a Healthier, More Balanced Life

Energy healing is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it’s tailored to the individual’s unique needs and experiences. Dr. Sayegh’s method focuses on holistic healing by not only addressing physical ailments but also by cultivating mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This multi-faceted approach ensures that clients receive the most effective care possible while fostering a deep connection to their own healing process.

Dr. Jamil Sayegh on the Beyond Trauma Podcast

Dr. Jamil Sayegh is joining me on the Beyond Trauma with Lara Land podcast to dive deeper into his holistic approach to health. In this upcoming episode, we’ll discuss the fascinating interplay between energy and physical well-being. Dr. Sayegh will share his insights into how aligning one’s energy can lead to profound physical healing, tapping into the body’s innate ability to heal from the inside out.

Through compelling testimonials, Dr. Sayegh will illustrate the effectiveness of energy medicine in overcoming a wide range of health challenges. We’ll explore the principles of energy healing and discuss how removing obstacles in the body’s energy system can pave the way for a healthier, more balanced life.

Join us as we take a deeper look into the transformative power of energy medicine and discover how this holistic approach can revolutionize your path to healing.

Listen to the episode here when it airs—you won’t want to miss it!

Mindfulness and Nature: Exploring the Wisdom of Mark Coleman

by Lara Land | Mar 2, 2025 | COACHING, COMMUNITY, LAND BLOG, LARA LAND, Self Improvement, SELF-IMPROVEMENT

In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the natural world.

Yet, mindfulness and nature-based contemplative practices have been used for centuries to cultivate a deeper sense of presence, peace, and understanding. One of the leading voices in this movement today is Mark Coleman, a renowned nature dharma teacher, mindfulness instructor, and author. Mark’s unique approach to mindfulness integrates outdoor experiences with traditional contemplative practices, offering profound benefits for our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

The Intersection of Mindfulness and Nature

Mark Coleman’s teachings emphasize the powerful connection between mindfulness and nature. His approach is rooted in the belief that the natural world provides an ideal environment for cultivating awareness, grounding ourselves, and reconnecting with the present moment. Whether it’s through the rustling of leaves, the flow of a river, or the vastness of the sky, nature offers an incredible backdrop for mindfulness practice.

Coleman’s work highlights how engaging with nature—whether through walking meditation, sitting in stillness, or simply observing—can help us develop deeper awareness and foster a more profound sense of inner peace. Nature offers a rich tapestry of experiences that support mindfulness, from the quiet observation of the natural world to the sensory richness it provides. It invites us to slow down and be fully present, observing without judgment and letting go of the distractions of modern life.

Concentration vs. Awareness Meditation

A key aspect of mindfulness practice is the cultivation of attention. Mark often teaches the difference between two core types of meditation: concentration and awareness meditation.

Concentration meditation involves focusing attention on a specific object, thought, or sensation, such as the breath, a mantra, or a visual point of focus. It’s about bringing the mind back to a singular point, which can help stabilize the mind and cultivate focus.
Awareness meditation, on the other hand, is more expansive. It involves cultivating an open awareness, allowing thoughts, feelings, and sensations to come and go without attachment. In nature, this can look like sitting by a stream, observing the flow of water, and allowing the sounds, sights, and smells of nature to come and go without interference.

Mark emphasizes that while both forms of meditation are important, nature-based mindfulness practices often lean towards awareness meditation. This is because nature presents an ever-changing environment that allows us to practice observing life in its fluidity—without the need to control it.

How the Elements Support Personal Growth

Mark’s teachings also focus on the elements—earth, water, fire, air, and space—as powerful symbols and supports in our personal growth. Each element can represent different aspects of our experience and help us understand our inner landscapes.

Earth teaches us about stability and grounding.
Water offers lessons in fluidity and adaptability.
Fire brings transformation and energy.
Air invites clarity and expansive thinking.
Space provides room for openness, creativity, and silence.

When we connect with these elements in nature, we can deepen our practice and gain insights that might not be as easily accessible in more conventional settings.

The Power of Practicing Meditation Outdoors

One of the key reasons why Mark Coleman advocates for practicing meditation outdoors is the unique benefits it brings. Nature itself is an embodiment of mindfulness—each moment in the natural world invites us to be present and aware. Whether you’re meditating in a forest, at the beach, or even in your local park, the natural environment offers a rich sensory experience that helps to anchor the mind and body in the present moment.

Practicing outdoors also helps us connect more deeply with the world around us, fostering a sense of interconnectedness with all living things. It reminds us that we are not isolated beings but part of a larger, living system. This realization can have profound impacts on our mental and emotional health, promoting feelings of peace, gratitude, and connection.

What If You Don’t Have Access to Outdoor Spaces?

While practicing mindfulness in nature is ideal, not everyone has regular access to outdoor spaces. Mark acknowledges this challenge and offers practical advice for those who feel disconnected from the natural world. You can bring nature to you in various ways—whether through visualization practices, where you imagine being in nature, or by incorporating elements of nature into your indoor environment, such as plants, sounds of nature, or natural materials.

Even if you can’t get outside, Mark encourages finding ways to connect with nature through the senses. Tuning into the natural world, even in small doses, can create a similar sense of calm and awareness.

Processing the Guilt of Not Doing Enough for the Environment

One common dilemma that many of us face is the guilt of not doing enough to protect the environment, especially in a time when environmental issues are at the forefront of global concerns. Mark’s teachings also address this issue, recognizing that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the problem.

However, Mark suggests that it’s important to find balance—to enjoy nature and find joy in it while also acknowledging the responsibility we have to protect it. He teaches that we can still cultivate mindfulness and a sense of presence in nature while simultaneously engaging in efforts to care for the planet. Mindfulness can help us avoid becoming paralyzed by guilt, allowing us to take compassionate action while appreciating the beauty of the world around us.

Mark Coleman on Beyond Trauma Podcast

For an in-depth exploration of nature-based contemplative practices, awareness meditation, and the elements for personal growth, I am thrilled to share that Mark Coleman is a guest on the latest episode of Beyond Trauma with Lara Land. In this episode, we dive into the history of nature-based contemplative practices, explore the distinction between concentration and awareness meditation, and discuss how the elements can support our personal development.

Mark also shares his thoughts on how practicing meditation outdoors enhances mindfulness, the ways in which nature fosters a deeper sense of self, and his practical advice for those without access to outdoor spaces. We also tackle the common dilemma of how to process guilt about environmental protection while still finding joy and presence in nature.

Don’t miss this insightful and enriching conversation with Mark Coleman! Tune in to the episode now on the Beyond Trauma Podcast with Lara Land.

Embracing the Inevitable: How Meditation on Death Enhances Vibrant Living

by Lara Land | Aug 2, 2023 | COACHING, COMMUNITY, LAND BLOG, LARA LAND, Self Improvement, SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Meditation has long been celebrated for its profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being.

However, a less explored yet equally transformative aspect of meditation is its contemplation on death. Far from morbid, this practice serves as a powerful reminder of the impermanence of life, propelling us to embrace the present fully. In this blog, we delve into the benefits of meditating on death and how it can help us live a more vibrant and purposeful life.

Understanding Impermanence and Embracing the Present

Meditating on death forces us to confront the transient nature of life. By acknowledging that life is impermanent, we become more aware of the preciousness of every moment. This awareness motivates us to live in the present, cherishing our relationships, pursuing our passions, and savoring the simple joys that surround us.

Fostering Gratitude and Contentment
Contemplating the finite nature of life encourages gratitude for what we have. Rather than dwelling on what we lack, we learn to appreciate the abundance in our lives. Gratitude enhances our sense of contentment, promoting a more positive and fulfilled outlook on life.

Letting Go of Trivial Worries
Meditation on death helps us gain perspective on our worries and fears. Trivial concerns lose their significance when viewed through the lens of mortality. By releasing unnecessary worries, we free ourselves to focus on what truly matters, making room for personal growth and self-improvement.

Motivating Personal Growth
Realizing the fleeting nature of life motivates us to seize opportunities for personal growth and self-improvement. We become more willing to step out of our comfort zones, take on challenges, and pursue our dreams. Meditation on death becomes a catalyst for positive transformation.

Strengthening Meaningful Relationships
By meditating on death, we recognize the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships with others. We learn to prioritize emotional connections, spending quality time with loved ones, and expressing our love and appreciation openly.

Reevaluating Priorities and Values
Contemplating mortality encourages us to reevaluate our priorities and align our actions with our core values. We let go of materialistic pursuits and focus on what brings true fulfillment and purpose to our lives.

Cultivating Mindfulness and Inner Peace
Meditation on death is a form of mindfulness practice that grounds us in the present moment. This mindfulness helps reduce anxiety about the future and regrets from the past, promoting inner peace and tranquility.

Embracing the concept of meditation on death might initially seem intimidating, but it holds the potential to transform our lives in profound ways. By acknowledging the impermanence of life, we learn to cherish the present, foster gratitude and contentment, and let go of trivial worries. This practice motivates personal growth, strengthens our relationships, and reevaluates our priorities.

If you are curious about how mediation on impermanence can enhance your life, join me for a 4-week virtual workshop on this topic. Details and registration HERE.

ACTIVISM AND SOCIAL CHANGE

by Lara Land | Jun 24, 2023 | COACHING, COMMUNITY, LAND BLOG, LARA LAND, Self Improvement, SELF-IMPROVEMENT

In the realm of social activism and political engagement, certain individuals stand out for their unwavering dedication and exceptional contributions.

One such figure is Reggie Hubbard—a trailblazer who has left an indelible mark on the landscape of activism and social change. Through his tireless efforts and unique approach to advocacy, Hubbard has become a beacon of hope for those striving to create a more just and equitable world. In this blog, we will explore the life, work, and impact of Reggie Hubbard.

Reggie Hubbard was born and raised in a vibrant community in Washington, D.C., where he developed a deep-rooted passion for social justice from a young age. Growing up in an environment marked by systemic inequities and racial disparities, he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by marginalized communities. This exposure fueled his determination to be an agent of change and set him on a lifelong path of activism.

Hubbard’s career in advocacy began with his involvement in grassroots organizing, community outreach, and political campaigns. He recognized the power of collective action and used it as a catalyst for positive change. With his charismatic personality, strategic mindset, and ability to inspire others, Hubbard quickly became a sought-after organizer and speaker.

One of the defining moments in Hubbard’s career was his instrumental role in Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign. As the National Political Outreach Coordinator, he played a pivotal part in mobilizing support and engaging diverse communities across the United States. Through his tireless efforts, Hubbard helped galvanize a new generation of politically engaged individuals and fostered a sense of hope for a more inclusive and progressive future.

Integration of Yoga and Mindful Activism:

In addition to his work as a political activist, Reggie Hubbard has also delved into the practice of yoga and mindfulness. Recognizing the need for sustainable activism and personal well-being, he has incorporated these practices into his work, advocating for what he calls “active peace.”

Through workshops, speaking engagements, and retreats, Hubbard shares the transformative power of yoga and mindfulness with fellow activists and change-makers. He highlights the importance of self-care, stress reduction, and emotional resilience as vital components of effective activism. By integrating yoga and mindfulness into his advocacy, Hubbard aims to create a more holistic and balanced approach to social change—one that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit of activists, enabling them to sustain their efforts and make a lasting impact.

Reggie had just returned from leading the first workshop created as a refuge for black men at Kripalu Yoga Center when we sat down for this interview. Listen as he shares the importance of sound healing and incorporating all the eight limbs of yoga for healing for activists. Then join me at Kripalu June 30th – July 2nd for some deep healing work together.