Serene Mind Massage

[Guest guest]

http://www.care2.com/

Adapted from The Essence of Incense: Bringing Fragrance Into the Home, by Rosen (Storey Books, 2001).

This simple head massage affects the seventh, or crown, chakra, which affects the vital life force of the body, the immune system. It is believed to increase the efficacy of the pineal gland, located on top of your head.

The massage takes only a few minutes, and it will almost immediately help bring nourishing blood to the brain and naturally stimulate it. This simple physical act opens the gate to reflection and can be done anywhere, anytime. Tapping into our energy flows can be mental or physical. This gentle exercise starts energy flowing immediately.

1. Light frankincense in a burner, then gently blow out the flame. Wave a feather or your hand over the burning edge of the incense to fan it slightly and keep it burning. Inhale this ephemeral, delicately woodsy smoke of the ages; realize that what you smell is the same scent that fascinated the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans.

2. As this timeless aroma permeates the room, allow yourself to submit to its power. Be calmed, be transported to a level of genuine relaxation, be at peace in silence.

3. Curve your fingers inward toward you and, beginning in the middle of your forehead, tap gently. Move the fingers to the side of your head, as if you were opening up your brain. Tap gently.

4. Next, start at the top of your head and move your fingers down to the temples. Tap gently.

5. Make the same gesture from the top of your head to the bottom of the back of your skull. Tap one more time.

You can do this exercise using the five steps here, or perform a simpler version without tapping. Move your fingers to the temples and rest for a few moments. By just allowing the energy points on the tips of your fingers to rest on your skin, you can transmit warmth and energy to your skin and help yourself relax. Next, move your fingers from the top of your head down the back of your head to the top of your neck. Rest your fingers at your nape. Feel the warmth emanating from your fingertips, and notice how it relaxes you.

With your eyes closed, imagine yourself opening up to the world and all its possibilities. Rest quietly for a few more moments to still your mind and allow reflection on the mystery of life and your connection to it. Now open your eyes. Feel how refreshed and energized you have become. Sit quietly for another few minutes, allowing this wonderful new feeling to wash over you.

Extinguish the incense and continue with your day, more alert, more aware, more energetic.