Like I mentioned in the previous post, my voice disappeared last week.  It’s back now, mostly, but having absolutely no voice for almost 10 days gave me a lot of time for silence.  Ironically – or not – and as uncomfortable as it is, silence is sometimes exactly what my personality needs.  It’s the contemplative practice that is most useful to me. 

I have found many definitions for the word “contemplative.”  Some of my favorites are: 

• Focused on careful consideration
• Prioritizing deep reflection
• Inclined to musing

The first time I heard the phrase “Contemplative Practice” was actually not in association with religious traditions or mediation. It was in connection with the Enneagram. 

Let me (hopefully succinctly) explain. 

We each have one of 3 intelligence centers that ‘lead’ us. One that is prominent and automatic.

Some of us lead with brains that spin.

Some of us lead with gut instincts.

Some of us lead with feelings in our hearts.

And, because of this, our minds, bodies, and hearts sometimes need a rest and a reset. Hence the need for a specific and tailored contemplative practice.

Head people need silence – Incorporating practices that encourage periods of quiet.

Gut people need stillness – Adopting practices that promote an absence of movement.

Heart people need solitude – Engaging in practices that encourage being alone.

Chris Heuertz says that by integrating these contemplative practices, individuals can move beyond mere self-awareness to experience more profound personal transformation.  “There is no better remedy for the addictions that keep us asleep than contemplative practice,” he says. 

What does a contemplative practice look like, on a practical level?

Glad you asked.  

In addition to Christopher Heuertz, both Mark Lockwood and Beverly Flaxington have several ideas. I have categorized and condensed fifteen from their lists here to get us started. 

First, head types: Silence (Quieting the Mind).

1. Silent Retreat.
   Eliminate external noise and distractions by spending intentional time in quiet, whether for a day, an hour, or even just a few minutes.
2. Lectio Divina.
   Engage in reflective (even religious) reading by slowly focusing on meaningful words or phrases, allowing them to guide your thoughts and reflections.
3. Concentration Practice of Cloud Shifting.
   Calm your mind by watching clouds (or similar visuals) and imagining reshaping them as a way to direct your focus.
4. The Power of the Anjali Mudra Practice (prayer hands).
   Use this symbolic gesture by bringing your hands together at your chest, taking deep breaths, and fostering balance between your body and mind.
5. Mentally Focused Physical Activity.
   Choose an activity like yoga, boxing, or rock climbing that requires your full mental focus, allowing your thoughts to settle naturally.

Second, body types: Stillness (Quieting the Body).

1. Grounding Practice.
   Pause during transitions – before meals or tasks – and stand or sit still. Feel your feet on the ground and take three deep breaths to center yourself.
2. Centered Response.
   When emotions are high, step back and place your hand on your chest or take a slow breath. Use this moment to choose your response with clarity.
3. Mindful Movement.
   Slow down or stop during daily tasks like walking or chores. Focus on the sensations in your body, such as your breath or the feeling of your feet on the ground.
4. Outdoor Stillness Practice.
   Pause in nature for a few minutes. Close your eyes, listen to the sounds around you, and feel the air on your skin to ground yourself.
5. Celebration Moments.
   During meaningful experiences like family dinners or time outdoors, focus on small actions – like holding hands or sharing a smile – to anchor yourself in the present.

Third, heart types: Solitude (Solo Practices).

1. Gratitude Practice.
   Reflect on life’s blessings by writing or mentally listing three things you’re thankful for, focusing on the details that make each meaningful.
2. Contemplative Pages.
   Spend time journaling freely to express your thoughts and emotions, gaining clarity and self-awareness in the process.
3. Questing or Pilgrimage Practice.
   Take a walk, hike, or longer journey alone to reflect on your values, goals, or spiritual growth. Let the solitude guide your insights.
4. Contemplative Prayer.
   Set aside quiet time for prayer or intentional reflection, connecting with the divine or your inner self to find peace and purpose.
5. Technology Detox.
   Disconnect from devices for a set time each week, using the external and relational quiet to reconnect with yourself and your environment.

I can’t wait to hear about which contemplative practices are putting you on a path leading to more profound personal transformation. And if you’re not sure which center your type leads with, or you’re not even sure what your type is, I’d love to help.  

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