Remember Einstein’s comment, “The problems we face cannot be resolved at the same level of mind at which we created them.” The level of mind at which we function can have a huge impact on our lives and on the lives of those around us.So how do we go beyond and climb upt to enjoy a new level of inspired mind?

We usually function during the day from the waking level of consciousness. We’re awake and conscious of what’s going on in the immediate environment. At night we move into dream and deep sleep consciousness. Meditation and other related practices expand the mind so that we can consciously grow into the regions of higher mind. The Sanskrit term is “buddhi” or higher intellect. Being in this place is like standing up on a mountain top and having a spacious view. Many things can be understood from this perspective and we’re able to see connections and have insights that shed new light on how to solve problems and what to do next.

The next time you’re faced with a challenging issue, instead of acting (or often reacting) to the situation, choose to sit quietly in meditation for a few minutes. Allow a space to open up by focusing the mind on a candle flame, a sacred object or image. Some people find it easier to use a centering mantra like “shanthi” (peace) or Love, or use a sacred name like Jesus, Allah or Buddha. This takes practice. The mind will wander and it requires gentle effort to bring the mind back to the image or word. With the mind focused, the mind occupied you can expand into the higher mind and become receptive to new solutions and creative ideas. This practice brings about powerful transformation and unexpected insights. It may even open the space to enlightenment.

Bio: Debra Moffitt is the award winning author of Awake in the World: 108 Practices to Live a Divinely Inspired Life and “Garden of Bliss”. A visionary, dreamer and teacher, she’s devoted to nurturing the spiritual in everyday life. She leads workshops on spiritual practices, writing and creativity in the U.S. and Europe. More at http://www.awakeintheworld.com and on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/DebraMoffittAwakeintheWorld