CONSCIOUS AGEING - a Daily Practice
- Adam Duncan
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 14
Preparation
Before you start this practice, plan for some uninterrupted time just for yourself straight after you wake up—15 minutes is perfect to begin with. Locate a clear, calm space in your home with as few visual or audible distractions as possible. Set up a yoga mat, cushion, or chair, and keep a notebook and pen handy. You have now prepared your sanctuary for emerging into full consciousness.
Daily Practice - Gratitude
When you wake up, take care of your immediate needs—go to the bathroom, put on some comfortable clothes—but remember that time is of the essence. Forget your phone and your to-do list. Before the busy mind takes over, get comfortable in your sanctuary with a glass of water.
While you are still regaining full consciousness, take a few deep breaths. Inhale through your nose, drawing the air deep into your lungs and down into your belly. Hold the breath for a couple of beats before slowly exhaling through your mouth.
Keep breathing until you start to feel appreciation for each breath. If this feels difficult at first, give yourself time to settle. This appreciation deepens as you awaken to the reality that all life is transient, and that one day you will cease to breathe. While this awareness can feel daunting initially, keep breathing through it. As you observe each inhale and exhale, the preciousness of life becomes clear. Take a few sips of water, anchor yourself in this feeling, and prepare to move to the next stage.
Daily Practice - Intention
Stay aware of your breathing. Try to let go of any immediate hunger for stimulation, distraction, or excitement. There may be many things vying for your attention, but put aside your concerns and expectations for just a few more minutes.
Before you begin the day, seek clarity about your direction by asking yourself: How do I want to be today, and for the rest of my life?
Your mind will naturally wander, but gently bring it back to this question. As thoughts surface, jot down a few words or phrases in your notebook. Do not expect quick or easy answers; with consistent practice, you will gradually gain clarity regarding your life-intention (your inner being) and your life-purpose (your outer doing). As you ponder this, you might also choose to chant a mantra, such as Nam Myoho Renge Kyo—an ancient, profound formula that encapsulates the interconnectedness of all life.
Continuity
Your inner critic may be skeptical at first, but commit to this practice every day for three months. Over time, the clarity you gain will build immense inner strength and self-confidence. Before you leave your sanctuary, make a silent promise to yourself to return to this exploration tomorrow morning. It is a challenging practice to initiate, but once you start experiencing the real-world benefits, it will become second nature.
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Adam Duncan: Author & Life-Stage Founder
