For some reason people ask me for advice on a regular basis. I hear, “I never tell anyone this but…” on a weekly in if not daily basis. Have to say I really enjoy giving it (if you couldn’t tell from this blog)!

It’s interesting to me that everyone feels so confused, alone and isolated, but when it comes down to it we all have very similar themes and challenges we’re facing. Because people are so private about their hardships, everyone feels like they’re on an island alone when really we are all at the exact same luau.

Since writing this blog the question I get asked the most often is: how do I start this spiritual journey because it seems so daunting? Luckily for you I have the answer (even if it’s not the one you want to hear).

Plain and simple the number one way to have a profound and immediate positive change is your life is to incorporate a daily spiritual practice in the morning - ideally before your feet hit the floor (but sometimes I need a quick bathroom break). I can’t speak for everyone, but that’s what works for me.

What does this mean exactly? Prayer and meditation.

First I start with prayer. I lead with my thoughts of gratitude then I go into a time for asking.  One thing I learned about prayer is to always ask for the highest good to come out of any situation or request, because in the end, when you are in alignment that’s what happens anyway.  I mostly ask for clarity and a deeper connection so I can follow my true path.

I use this prayer from A Course in Miracles:

Where would you have me go?

What would you have me do?

What would you have me say?

And to whom?

This is my way of aligning my actions and words with the higher good.

Next is mediation (which people freak out about). This is really just a time for listening and receiving.  This can be as simple as a few minutes of silence, or you can use a guided mediation. I suggest Spirit Junkie by Gabrielle Bernstein for starters. You can try repeating a mantra or even chanting if you want to go hog wild.  Just sit in stillness and receive.

Even if you aren’t feeling successful at mediation, just practice and try and be gentle with yourself and it will come.

What if you can’t motivate yourself to do this 5-minute morning routine? Then do a 30 second prayer and ask the Universe for the willingness and desire to have a daily practice. All it takes is the willingness to change and the rest will unfold.

Take a 30-day (or week if that intimidates you) challenge and give the first 5 minutes of your day to this practice.  I guarantee you’ll sense a shift and acquire more inner peace, because that’s what we are all looking for after all.