The 17th Second

"The 17th second - When you need just one more…"

By: Jennifer Ogden

At a time in my life where I needed a swift kick from a hyper-vigilant, over anxious, panic stricken existence and into a zen zone of safety, meditation and calm Davidji was introduced into my life. A dear friend and renowned therapist sent me a link with the simple instructions “listen to this when you have 16 seconds.”  No brainier, right? Who doesn't have a spare 16 seconds to do some self care? I figure...this is cool let me give it a try. The moment I clicked the link I listened to the calming voice of none other than Davidji.  Are you asking yourself “who the heck is Davidji ?” Maybe you are, and if so that was the same response I had, but let me tell you a little about this man. He has dedicated his life helping others through his famous guided meditations, motivational speaking and a plethora of awareness centered curriculum. A true master of his craft his soothing voice could lull even the toughest of sleepers to a restful night. His “16 Seconds of Calm” is a demonstration of conscious inhales and exhales which according to the Zen master himself should result in bringing you a sense of peace, mental clarity and the ability to move past whatever was overwhelming and leave you feeling just a little lighter than the moment before.

But what happens when we need just one more second? Those 16 seconds feel so good that we just want to hang on to that moment for a little longer. Maybe we need that extra second to get us through, possibly we followed those 16 seconds to a T and the world still seems so incredibly heavy. Does that mean we are a failure because it didn’t work? Because MOST people can do it in 16 seconds, but what if today I need 17? Or 18?  So are you a failure cause 16 seconds wasn’t enough? The very clear, matter of fact answer is NO. You are not a failure, and in fact pat yourself on the back for the self awareness to identify within yourself that you need an extra second. Giving yourself grace in a time of immense stress is one of the best things you can do for yourself. 

In a world where the pressure to be perfect feels harder than the cabin pressure of a JetBlue flight 35,000 feet above, it can be difficult to give ourselves that extra moment we need. However, we should never lose sight of the value of that one extra second. Just think, what does 1 single second mean to you? It could be what makes a much needed hug a little longer, a snuggle with your baby that forms the attachment you have been desperate to establish, that extra sip of coffee in the morning that gives you the energy to get through the day. Whatever your 1 second is...give it to yourself! You are WORTH it. You are worth whatever it takes to make you feel like a whole person. Not everyday will be filled with spa pedicures, an hour alone at the gym or even a shower, but give yourself that extra second when you need it. The one single second you need to center yourself and remember that you are important, you are essential and you can conquer the world,.........or at least put on pants.

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Want to give it a try?? Check out Davidji's 16 Second Meditation below!